On this day in 1776, we claimed our independence from Great Britain and Democracy was born. As always, this most American of holidays will be marked by parades, fireworks and backyard barbecues across the country.  Make sure your barbecue includes America’s favorite summer desserts!

June and July mark the annual Summer Favorites Ice Cream & Novelties promotion…it’s a great time to see and taste what’s new in the “Cool” aisles of your local grocery stores, where you will find special promotions and prices on your favorite summer treats.  Join the fun!

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Flag Etiquette

Here are some tips to make sure your 4th of July tribute is a respectful one.

• Display the flag only between sunrise and sunset on buildings and stationary flagstaffs.  The flag may be displayed for twenty-four hours if illuminated in darkness.

• Do not display the flag in inclement weather.

• Whether displaying the flag vertically or horizontally, make sure the canton of stars is visible on the upper left-hand side.

• Do not let the flag touch the ground.

• An unusable flag that is damaged and worn and can no longer be displayed should be destroyed in a dignified way by burning.* 

• When not on display, the flag should be respectfully folded into a triangle, symbolizing the tricorn hats worn by colonial soldiers in the Revolutionary War.

* Most American Legion Posts regularly conduct a dignified flag burning ceremony.  Contact them for more information.

Safety Tips - Fireworks

Enjoy celebrating the heritage of our country with fireworks, but KNOW YOUR FIREWORKS!  The National Council on Fireworks Safety offers these tips:

Only buy consumer fireworks from a licensed store or stand.

Consumer fireworks regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission are packaged in bright colors and have safety warnings on the packaging.

Only use fireworks outdoors.

Always have a bucket of water, or water hose, nearby.

Never re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks.

Children under age 16 should only use fireworks with adult supervision.

Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass container.

Parents should pay special attention to children using sparklers – sparklers can reach temperatures up to 1800 degrees F, and can be very dangerous is used improperly.

The June/July Summer Favorites Ice Cream & Novelties Promotion is Brought to You by These Leading Brands:

Did You Know ...

There is more than a one in four chance that the hot dogs and pork sausages consumed at your Fourth of July barbecue originated in Iowa. The Hawkeye State had a total of 15.5 million market hogs and pigs on March 1.  This represents more than one-fourth of the nation’s total.  North Carolina (8.4 million) and Minnesota (6.2 million) were the runners-up.

BERRY GOOD MILKSHAKES

1 cup frozen strawberries, raspberries or blackberries
1 Tbsp. honey
1 cup vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt
1/2 cup milk

BANANA SPLIT WAFFLES

1 frozen waffle, toasted lightly and cooled
1 banana
3 large scoops of ice cream, flavors of your choice
Chocolate syrup or fudge
Frozen whipped topping, nuts, cherries, sprinkles and more toppings of your choice

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