Royal Oak Tales: Daughter & Dad

A Week of Celebrating Independence

Patch columnist commemorates the Fourth of July with a bang.

I was one of many who decided if July 4 was being celebrated on a Wednesday, I might as well make a week of high-fiving our country’s independence. Gas prices are lower for a change and so it was less expensive getting here, there and little bit of everywhere. I started the week up north - first in central Michigan - on one of the many small lakes named after, well, bass.  I took our grandson Asher, who is now 2 ½ years old, out to the end of the dock on Bass Lake where my own children first learned to cast their bobber and worm laden hook toward, not into, the lily pads. At least in theory that’s how it’s supposed to work. I’m fairly sure all four of our kids and our oldest grandson have caught the same 6-inch bluegill that lives in the …

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Gerry Boylan

12:02 am on Thursday, July 12, 2012

Thanks for the comments all...I do enjoy writing this column!   more ›

5 Things You Didn't Know About the Fourth of July

It has to be about more than fireworks and grilling, right? Here are five facts about the birth of our country that you may not have learned in school.

It may be hard to believe, but the Fourth of July is about more than grilling hot dogs and donning your best red, white and blue. From your days in elementary school, you may remember a bit about the Founding Fathers, but National Geographic offers five facts about the Fourth of July that even the biggest history buffs might not know.

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Need to Know: Fourth of July

Where to find fireworks shows, how to avoid road construction, business closures and more.

Whether you are staying close to home or traveling up north for the holiday weekend, here's some information you'll want to know: Around Royal Oak: On Independence Day the National Weather Service forecast calls for a chance of showers and thunderstorms with highs in the low 90s. Up North: Highs in the mid-80s with plenty of sunshine for the holiday. MDOT suspends many road projects around the state: Check to see if construction barrels will make your trip a slow, frustrating go or if MDOT is clearing the way for your holiday weekend drive. What’s opened and closed: Check this list before you head out the door for the bank, city office or favorite restaurant. Oakland County fireworks shows: There are plenty of fireworks shows and festivals…

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Make the Holiday Sparkle with Local Fireworks Shows

There are plenty of options to catch some light shows in and around our Patch communities.

Following is a list of fireworks displays in Oakland County on July 4, some of which are part of larger festivals and activities. All fireworks begin at dusk, which is generally shortly after 10 p.m. There is no admission fee unless otherwise stated.

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Five Easy Dessert Ideas for Your Fourth of July Celebration

Some American Flag inspired treats for your your Independence Day festivities.

Have you thought about what to cook for your Independence Day celebration?  You can find a lot of desserts in our local supermarkets for the Fourth of July or you can make your own. Here are few fun and easy ideas to make with your family.   1. You can make or buy an angel food cake or a pound cake. Next cut it into cubes or pieces and add blueberries, strawberries and whipped cream. This can be served in individual dishes or one large one.  2. Another idea is to make a cake shaped like our nation's flag. Buy white cake mix and make it in a rectangle shaped pan. After baking, let it cool and cover the top with cool whip. Add blueberries for the stars of the flag. Cut strawberries into quarters and use to make stripes on your cake. Kids …

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Royal Oak Fireworks Tonight

Red Run Golf Club treats its members – and anyone else nearby – to a Fourth of July light show.

The city of Royal Oak doesn't put on a Fourth of July parade, picnic or fireworks show (Memorial Day is our big holiday), so residents appreciate what Red Run Golf Club does for its members. Tonight, the private club on Rochester Road at 12 Mile Road continues its tradition of celebrating Independence Day with a fireworks show seen far and wide. Those who are not members set up around the club's golf course for the best viewing spot. Area parks, backyards, decks and sidewalks are spots of choice. So grab a chair or blanket and a cool drink, relax and enjoy. The show starts at dusk, around 10 p.m. If you are bringing a camera along tonight, make sure you check out photographer Edward Maurer's advice on capturing the sparkling sky then share…

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