5 stories to follow: July 2

Here's your daily look at five stories we're following today:

1. Independence Day events: It's only July 2, but Independence Day events have already started here in Philadelphia. There's free admission to the National Constitution Center today as part of the "Wawa Welcome America!" festival. The festivities also involve a four-ton hoagie, a "Hoagie march" and other events. And tonight, the Philadelphia Orchestra performs a free concert at Penn's Landing. If you're planning ahead for later in the week, here's our guide to area fireworks displays and what you need to know if you're shooting off fireworks at home.

2. Search for missing boy: Rescuers will resume the search today for a 13-year-old boy who fell into Pennypack Creek on Monday afternoon. The boy is presumed lost after having been swept up in the creek's rough waters. The child's 11-year-old brother was rescued and is in stable condition.

3. Gay marriage in N.J.: New Jersey Democrats are planning a news conference this afternoon to put pressure on moderate Republicans to support same-sex marriage in the state. Democratic state lawmakers want to garner enough votes to override a veto by Gov. Chris Christie.

4. Tough road ahead for Sarah: Sarah Murnaghan, the 10-year-old Delaware County girl whose fight to get a lung transplant garnered national attention, faces a tough recovery process. Sarah, who has cystic fibrosis, had two double-lung transplants. Based on grave problems she's suffered so far, research suggests that her chances of surviving a year are below 50 percent. The Newton Square girl is scheduled to have more surgery on her diaphragm muscle today.

5. Remembering William H. Gray III: The former congressman from Philadelphia, known for mentoring other black leaders, died Monday in London. His cause of death wasn't immediately available. Those who knew him recalled Gray as a charismatic politician who fought for justice.