WESTSIDE — Gravette’s annual “Fireworks Extravaganza” is shaping up to be an impressive fireworks display at Pop Allum Park the evening of July Fourth, according to Mike von Ree, who has chaired the program for several years.

The program will begin at dark Monday evening, weather permitting, von Ree said. In case of rain, the program will be held Tuesday night.

von Ree said the fireworks will be electronically “set off” by local police, firefighters and others who are receiving instruction on pyrotechnic displays.

He said local contributions fund the annual project and individuals or businesses who have not made contributions may contact him to help cover the cost.

Gravette’s first fireworks program was held July 4, 1993, to help the town celebrate its 100th birthday. The tradition has continued each year since that time.

Sulphur Celebrates

Sulphur Springs Independence Day activities will be held Saturday, July 2, in the big shady park in that city. A schedule of events includes the following: Fishing Derby from 8 to 10 a.m.; Cake Walk at 10 a.m.; Chicken Barbecue, starting at 11 a.m.; Volleyball, beginning at 11:30 a.m.;River Rat Race at 12 noon; Free Watermelon at 2 p.m.; Beauty Contest at 2:45 p.m.; Horsehoes, beginning at 6 p.m. and Fireworks at dusk.

Other events throughout the day include a car bash, dunking tank, greased pig contest and more. A full schedule of events will be posted in the park.

The Sulphur Springs Fire Department will be selling hot dogs, chips and drinks.

Gentry Celebration

The Gentry Freedom Fest will be held Monday, July 4, with events going on all day long. See special tab in this week’s issue of the Westside Eagle Observer for a schedule of the day’s activities.

News, Pages 8 on 06/29/2011