By Stacy Parker Correspondent OCEANFRONT As grandmothers do, Carol Ann Marshall of Bay Colony worried when her grandson, Blake, announced that he would be traveling across the United States on his bicycle. But she also admired his motivation to cycle for others in need. "I'm in awe that he would do this," she said.

1. The Constitution
2. Sets up the government and protects basic rights of Americans
3. We the People
4. A change or addition to the Constitution
5. The Bill of Rights
6. Speech, religion, assembly, press and to petition the government
7. 27
8. Announced our independence (from Great Britain)
9. Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness

Most everyone has pleasant memories of July Fourth fireworks, but all too many can recall emergency-room visits on the same day. Here are some fireworks safety reminders and facts, courtesy of Dr. Dana Ramirez, emergency physician at Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters in Norfolk:

While many of us will mark our patriotism today with barbecues and fireworks, thousands of others are waiting to be allowed to call themselves United States citizens.
Before that can happen, they must demonstrate their knowledge of American history and government in a test administered by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services department.

Find a spot to park your car during Harborfest 2009.

NORFOLK The waterfront was crowned the main attraction at Friday's much anticipated re opening of Town Point Park with the city's 33rd Harborfest celebration. As part of the downtown park's $11.5 million face-lift, the grounds were terraced and the stage relocated so the view of the Elizabeth River became the focal point. And people noticed.

Three battle flags fluttered above the troops amid the confusion, smoke and musket fire in a South Carolina field on May 29, 1780.

VIRGINIA BEACH For locals looking to have some fun this summer, and avoid the tourist traffic and crowds, a quick trip to the nearest city park might be all that's required. A day out at any of the city's 249 parks offers an assortment of recreational possibilities for the family, and since last year the city has seen a huge increase in the number of residents making use of them.

The renovations to Town Point Park pushed back Harborfest this year from its traditional early June date. So, Norfolk is combining three weekends into one big party - Harborfest, Independence Day and the celebration of the park's reopening - or, as we like to call it, Grand Harbor Fourth. Here's what you can expect.

 
WATER TRANSPORTATION
The Elizabeth River Ferry runs between Norfolk and Portsmouth. Base price is $1.50 one way. Visit www.gohrt.com or call (757) 222-6100 for more information.