Traditions, fun and solemn, mark July Fourth

U.S. celebrates 232nd anniversary of adoption of Declaration of Independence Festivities across nation include fireworks, parades, food President, vice president, attend swearing-in ceremonies for new citizens Group rings replica of the Liberty Bell as part of celebration in several cities NEW YORK (AP) -- Americans across the country mixed patriotism and plain old good fun to mark Independence Day on Friday, with solemn ceremony alternating with parades and hot-dog-eating hijinks. Cindy Arthur of Nampa, Idaho dresses as the Statue of Liberty for the Caldwell, Idaho, parade. On the 232nd anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, Boy Scouts in Hartford, Connecticut, rang a replica of the Liberty Bell, while organizers of the annual New York fireworks display promised the rockets' red glare would be better... [read full story]