Thursday was Flag Day, marking the date in 1777 when Congress adopted the Stars and Stripes. Some facts about the U.S. flag: ? President William Taft issued an executive order in 1912 dictating the proportions for the flag and placement of the stars.

This year, members of the Elks Grand Lodge Americanism Committee selected the theme, "Why I am proud to pledge allegiance to our flag," for the 2011-2012 Grand Lodge Americanism Essay Contest.

...Lakes Chamber Welcome Center in Trailside Park.? Kiddie parade, 11:30 a.m., Chamber parking lot.? The Stars and Stripes Parade, noon. No parking along the parade route and County Road 11. Crosby-IrontonJuly 4? Parade, 11 a.m...

...Bizet and arranged by Michael Sweeney; "Apache," percussion section feature arranged by Michael Sweeney; and "The Stars and Stripes Forever Trio" by John Phillip Sousa, arranged by Robert E. Foster, Jr. Watercolor to be next Flipside eventThe...

As a Minnesota National Guard soldier, I have a deep love of our nation and a sincere appreciation for the symbols that represent it. The American Flag is a symbol recognizable by probably anyone in the world. It signifies who we are as a people. I appreciate anyone who properly displays our flag.

PEQUOT LAKES ? Two days of fun-filled events over the Fourth of July holiday weekend are planned for the Breezy Point-Pequot Lakes Stars and Stripes Days.One of the highlights of Stars and Stripes Days is the parade, which an estimated 14,000 people will view in downtown Pequot Lakes. Another highlight will be the July 3 fireworks in Pequot Lakes. Other activities include a firefighter's rodeo, carnival games, live music and more.

Brainerd/BaxterJuly 4? Brainerd Lakes Area Lunkers at Thunder Bay, 6:05 p.m.? Noon, Corn on the cob feed by the Brainerd Jaycees.? 4 p.m. Parade.? 6:30 p.m. Bill "The King" Musel as Elvis, Don Adamson Football Field.? 8:15 p.m. Wayne Renn, Don Adamson Football Field.? 10 p.m. presentation of the flag and singing of the national anthem, Laura Oldham.? 10:15 p.m. fireworks by Zambelli Fireworks with stage performances and fireworks music simulcasted on 3WI Radio 95.9 FM and 1270 AM.

...compositions and marches. The symphonic band will play music for its upcoming tour to Washington, D.C., including the "Stars and Stripes Forever." Cost ifs $6 for adults and $4 for students. BHS orchestra to perform benefit concert Tuesday The...

WASHINGTON - As the nation paused to remember its veterans, Army Command Sgt. Maj. Ronald Bedford completed a 1,500-mile walk from Alabama to the nation's capital to push for a World War II monument here.

PANAMA CITY, Panama (AP) - As the first ships of the new millennium sailed smoothly through the locks Saurday, Panamanians celebrated the New Year, and above all, the handover of the Panama Canal and the U.S-held territory that had long cut this nation in two.