Flag etiquette at a glance

When to fly it: Any day, especially national holidays and patriotic observances. Night display: The flag may fly after dark if properly illuminated. Bad weather: Do not fly the flag in severe weather unless it is an all-weather flag.

In 1776, Oklahoma was still centuries from statehood

America was being born, but present-day Oklahoma was still Native land, open prairie and river country In 1776, the United States was declaring its independence, but Oklahoma was not yet Oklahoma.There was no Oklahoma City, no Tulsa, no Cushing, no Yale, no Drumright and no Mannford.

Heat and Hydration Safety

Oklahoma heat can be dangerous, especially during outdoor celebrations.Drink water before you feel thirsty. Take shade breaks often, especially during the hottest part of the day.Wear lightweight clothing, sunscreen and a hat when possible.

Pet Safety

Fireworks may be fun for people, but they can be terrifying for pets.Keep pets indoors before fireworks begin. Close windows, curtains and blinds, and turn on a television, fan or music to help cover the noise.Make sure pets are wearing collars with current ID tags.

Grilling Safety

Keep the cookout safe by giving the grill plenty of space.Use propane and charcoal grills outdoors only. Keep grills away from siding, deck rails, eaves, low branches and anything that can catch fire.Create a 3-foot “kid-free and pet-free zone” around the grill.

Boating Safety

Before heading out on the water, make sure every person on board has a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.Wear the life jacket, don’t just pack it. Children, weak swimmers and anyone riding on personal watercraft should wear one at all times.Choose a sober boat operator.

Water Safety

Whether it is a lake, pool, river or pond, water deserves full attention.Watch children closely and constantly around water. Do not rely on older children to supervise younger ones.Swim with a buddy and stay in designated swimming areas when possible.

Fireworks Safety

A bright Fourth of July can turn dangerous quickly if fireworks are not handled with care.Only adults should light fireworks, and children should never handle or ignite them. Light one firework at a time, then move back quickly.

Memories

CUSHING “When my husband was in the Air Force, we’d get together in Shamrock with the community, and there’d be at least 30 [people] there, but since we moved to town [Cushing], all the kids are in different places now,” said Barbara Myers.

Bulletin Board

CUSHING July 4 Cushing Celebrates America parade, Historic Downtown Cushing on Broadway, 7 p.m.July 5 Cushing Pride Recycling, Noon-2 p.m., Cushing High School ag barn parking lot July 6 Beginning of Summer Theater Camp for students in grades 2-8. Each day from 9 a.m. to noon until July 24.