June 26, 2007 > Happy Birthday, America Happy Birthday, America By Jackelyn Ho Independence Day is a nationwide event beyond comparison; an extravaganza of sight, taste and sounds that appeal to all ages and senses. Barbeques, concerts and firework displays inaugurate the coming of sweet summer days, family reunions and seemingly endless warm days and evenings. The focal point of this party is, of course, the birth of our nation. Prior to separation from British rule, American colonies were controlled by the King of England; many citizens were not content with the results. Richard Henry Lee proposed a document calling for independence from British rule. Assisting Lee in the cause, Thomas Jefferson assembled a committee to create America's most profound document: The Declaration of Independence. On July 2, 1776, the document was revised and approved. It was officially published on July 4, 1776 and as a result of this risky action, America is an independent and free country. Each year, our country takes time through celebration of this moment in history, to commemorate this important day in our nation's history and be thankful for the bold actions of the founders of the United States of America. As enthusiastic and patriotic groups join parades, listen to concerts, enjoy picnics and stare at fireworks across the sky, remember to whisper a "thank you" to those who made it possible for us live in an independent country. Without their hard work and dedication, America would not be the free nation it is today. Here are a few events in our area that will celebrate our collective birthday: Wednesday, July 4 NEWARK: Firehouse Pancake Breakfast $ 8 a.m. - Noon Kids activities, antique fire apparatus and more Newark Fire Station #3 39039 Cherry St., Newark FREMONT: Fourth of July Parade 10 a.m. Music, balloons, marching bands and more Niles District Niles Blvd. and I St., Fremont (510) 790-9352 EAST BAY REGIONAL PARKS: Independence Day Celebration $ 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Music, games, contests and races Ardenwood Historic Farm 34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont (510) 796-0663 Old Fashion Fourth 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Ice cream, egg toss, games and more Coyote Hills Regional Park 8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont (510) 636-1684 MILPITAS: Celebrate Independence Day 1 p.m. Pool party, barbeque and fireworks Milpitas Sports Center 1325 E. Calaveras Blvd., Milpitas (408) 688-0137