SULPHUR SPRINGS — Folks from throughout the area traveled to Sulphur Springs Saturday for the town's annual Independence Day celebration. Activities were scheduled in the big shady park from morning to night and events were held to interest all age groups.
A pancake breakfast, hosted by the Sulphur Springs Special Events Committee, kicked off the day at 8 a.m. Diners enjoyed pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage patties, orange juice and coffee cooked and served by members of the committee. Donations were accepted to help fund the group's many annual events and improvement projects.
John Varner, Sulphur Springs fire chief, brought back a tradition from former days and organized a parade sponsored by the town's fire department and police department. State senator Kim Hendren drove the lead car carrying parade marshal Martha Kreder. A float carrying members of the Friendly Neighbors Club was a highlight. In March, 2018, the club will celebrate the 60th anniversary of its founding. Firetrucks from Sulphur Springs, Gravette and Maysville, vintage vehicles, kids on bicycles and an equestrian unit all participated.
Youngsters began arriving early because registration for the fishing derby began at 8 a.m. Fishermen under age 16 were registered in three age groups, and the order to drop hooks in Lake LaBalladine was given immediately following the parade. Three trophies were presented for biggest catch.
Registration for the car show began at 10 and collectors began pulling their vehicles in place at midmorning. Judging in several categories was held at 1 p.m. and first-, second- and third-place trophies were given in each division. Plaques were presented for best vehicle under construction, cleanest ride and most custom. Red Norris, of Gentry, won the best of show award and was presented an unusual custom table lamp created by Longhorn Tank Company. Norris also won the trophy for first place in the classic car division.
Got Junk? recyclers of Noel, Mo., donated two vehicles for the "money car" and car bash events. Youngsters scrambled throughout the "money car," tearing it apart in search of the cash prize hidden inside. The second car was very well worn after entrants in the car bash paid $1 for two minutes of bashing the vehicle with a giant sledgehammer.
Jo Brow was the winner of the treasure hunt and received a goody bag filled with gift certificates and merchandise from area businesses. The winning clue was "dog" and, after an extensive search throughout the park, the award plaque was found on the back of a sign warning that all dogs must be kept on a leash.
Youngsters enjoyed bouncing in a giant inflatable bounce house and taking rides on Henry, a camel owned by Ham Bone Express of Kansas, Okla. Rob Test, of Cassville, Mo., brought down his miniature train, the 5 Stones Express, and took children for rides around the park. The MedFlight helicopter was also on hand. A duck race at 1 p.m. attracted several participants.
A dunk tank was set up, horseshoe pits were nearby and a few RVs were parked under the trees with occupants camping overnight and taking advantage of all the attractions. Several swimmers and a few fishermen lined the banks of Lake LaBalladine after the fishing derby ended.
John Estep, of Gravette, brought his karaoke machine and provided musical entertainment throughout the day's activities, and the Arkansas Crossroads band from Rogers also performed during the day.
Food booths set up around the park served a variety of foods so everyone could find a meal to his or her taste. Hungry folks could purchase barbecue meals, hot dogs, nachos, tamales, popcorn, ice cream, chicken, fish, shrimp and even alligator dishes.
A spectacular fireworks show, sponsored by Butler Creek Auctions, capped off the evening at dusk, with displays coordinated by the town's 11-member volunteer fire department. It was followed by a street dance emceed by an area DJ.
Fire Chief Varner expressed thanks to sponsors All Purpose Glass, Holland Roofing, Butler Creek Auctions, Walmart and Little Debbie for helping make the day a success. "Without them, we couldn't make it happen," he said.
Community on 06/28/2017