When my editor and I sat down to discuss topics for a Fourth of July cocktail piece, our minds immediately went to easy-to-make recipes sure to add "spark" to any party. I had to reach back to my college days for a few of these recipes, but they're tried and true — as tasty today as they were back then.

Only, maybe this year I will keep a bottle of Pepcid AC nearby.

Don't let the remnants of Hurricane Alex put a damper on your holiday plans. Instead, celebrate in proper fashion. Make our whiskey-swigging founding fathers proud by sipping these sultry summer libations in their honor.

Pink Panty Droppers — There are several variations of this recipe online, but my friend Chris’ version is a consistent hit. Be warned: as the name suggests, this punch is sure to loosen up your inhibitions.

- One case of Keystone Light Tall Boys
- Two handles of vodka
- 1/5 bottle of Everclear
- Three Country Time Pink Lemonade Flavor Drink Mixes
- Two Country Time Lemon-Lime Flavor Frozen Drink (concentrate)
- 20 limes, halved and squeezed

Mix in a cooler with ice. Serves about 20 to 30 people, depending on your friends.

Jell-O Shots — a personal favorite, I never seem to outgrow these.

- Six ounce package of Jell-O (I prefer red, green or purple)
- 16 ounces boiling water
- Six ounces cold water
- 10 ounces vodka

Combine Jell-O mix with boiling water until powder is dissolved. Add cold water and vodka. Pour into cups and freeze for two hours. (Makes 20 to 24 shots). For a fancier take, check out MyJelloAmericans. The What-A-Melon is the perfect festive treat for the Fourth.

Michelada — beer and the Fourth of July go together like peas and carrots.

- 12 oz beer, non-dark
- Six ounces Clamato Juice
- juice from two key limes
- Two dashes Worcestershire Sauce
- Two dashes Tabasco Sauce
- celery salt

Shake all but the beer. Pour into tall glass and add beer and ice. Rim glass with celery salt.

Cheers!