4th of july

As we gear up to celebrate Independence Day and our country this coming week, ask yourself are you really celebrating America or are you just in it for the barbecues and fireworks? With 4th of July approaching, WalletHub released a study of '2017's Most Patriotic States in America...

The Fourth of July is a time for celebration and fireworks, but many veterans seek an alternative to the loud fireworks displays this time of year. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency are working together to provide alternative camping options for veterans and others, including pet owners, who are seeking a quieter 4th of July.

Patriotic songs can take many forms in the hands of our classic rock heroes.

A flashy (and often very loud) tribute to end-of-show pyromania.

Our only criteria: Each of these groups must be unique to this country – with a sound and an attitude that could have only happened in the U.S.

Videos of some legendary performances of the national anthem.

In case you didn't make it to downtown Grand Rapids for our 5th of July fireworks show, and didn't see or hear them, then you must have been in another state, since the show was huge and amazing! Thanks to Amway for the amazing fireworks display, honoring all those men and women around the world who serve, and protect America's security and freedoms!

We, as Americans, eat more hot dogs on the 4th of July than any other days. Over 323 billion in 24 hours. And that's not including the dogs they eat at the Hot Dog eating contest on Coney Island!

From our close friends at WZZM TV13, the official list of all the fireworks shows and celebrations for the 4th of July in Michigan! Shameless plug: WFGR sponsors the FREE 4th of July Fireworks at Gun Lake Casino, starting at 10:30! See Cluck the chicken and other surprises between 6 and 8!

File this one under the "Now I've seen almost EVERYTHING" folder. Michigan State Police have distributed talking urinal cakes to about 400 eating and drinking establishments in Wayne, Bay, Delta and Ottawa counties. The cake will ask men when they start to, um, go...if they have had to much to drink and need a cab called. Hmmm.