Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Chamber plans firework display for July 4 holiday

Fourth of July festivities are still on tap with the fireworks show promising to be bigger and better than last year.

The city celebration was started last year in order to give people in the community somewhere to go on the Fourth and encourage community involvement.

Funds for the show where made possible through the 21st Century Community Learning Center by way of a grant. Jean Smithey, who is in charge of the 21st CCLC brought the idea of a Fourth of July celebration to Gurdon Mayor Clayton Franklin and the Gurdon Chamber of Commerce.

Both thought the idea was worth trying and decided to add free food and entertainment. All helped in gathering sponsors for the event which turned out to be a great event.

This year's sponsors are the Cabe Foundation, the City of Gurdon, the CD&E Club, the Gurdon Chamber of Commerce and the 21st CCLC.

Franklin said in a recent city council meeting, "We have more money for fireworks this year. Last year's show was spectacular and I don't think anyone was disappointed. I hope this year's will top it. We have a good line up of entertainment along with free food. Something for everyone, that is what we hope to have."

The celebration is to be held at Go-Devil Stadium on July 4, 2003. A community singing will be held from 6-8:45 p.m. The Mt. Zion Baptist Church will begin performing at 6-6:30. Next performing will be Christina Daniels and Katie Barbaree. Gurdon High School Band Director, Alan Wimberly will be performing from 7-7:15 and will be followed by the Calvary United Pentecostal Church. Winnie Clark will take the stage at 7:35 and sing until 8, when her son, Brian, and the Arkansans will take the stage.

During the singing and fireworks display, the Gurdon Band Boosters will have the concession stand open selling refreshments and giving away free hot dogs.

Donations to the celebration can be given to Franklin or Smithey and should be made out to Gurdon Public Schools.

For more information on the event contact any of the following: Franklin, Charles Failla, Donna King, Kim King, Denise Ezell, Sharon Lasker, Rev. Jim Farris, Maxine Weems, Stan Escalante or Smithey.