Peabody gearing up for 4th of July celebration
Just four weeks shy of the annual Peabody July Fourth celebration, the committee in charge of the big event is busy finalizing plans.
Kristi Silvernale, chairman of the Fourth Fest Society, said things are falling into place on schedule.
Auditions were held in May to select the person or group to perform the National Anthem. Shawna Winter of Peabody was chosen.
The "Madhatters" will entertain the crowd at the park in the evening before the fireworks display. Brian McDowell will once again serve as master of ceremonies from the press box.
Amusements by Celebrations will provide carnival-type entertainment for the youngsters at the park. There will be a mountain climb, train rides, laser tag, an electronic bull ride, and giant inflatables for children to enjoy.
"We are especially pleased to be on the "fly-over" schedule for the B-1 bombers from McConnell Air Force base," said Silvernale. "They will fly over the park between 8:30 and 9 p.m. They will be leaving Kansas in August so this will likely be the last time we'll have a chance to experience a "fly-over" in Peabody."
Silvernale said that the committee will begin putting the ground displays together this week in the round house at the city park. "We have an excellent crew again this year," she said. "It's all volunteer, of course, but they are experienced and they will have everything ready by the Fourth."
She noted that there still are some aerial and set pieces in need of sponsors. "We still need sponsors for the Liberty Bell, the KU set piece, the Statue of Liberty, Niagara Falls, and a couple of others. Sponsorship is $100 for these pieces." She added that the Battle of New Orleans is a $1,500 production and is usually funded by more than one sponsor.
"We don't have enough sponsors for that one yet either," she said. "Hopefully, some businesses or individuals will combine their donations to sponsor it. It is the most popular piece of the event."
The parade once again will be organized by Tammy Whiteside and Rose Thomason. It will begin at 6 p.m. this year, starting at the high school and going south down Walnut Street.
"Entries have started coming in," said Whiteside. "We expect to have another good turn-out." Anyone wishing to participate in the parade should contact either Whiteside or Thomason.
Silvernale said the preparations are on schedule. "Everything is running smoothly and we expect to have another successful party in Peabody," she said.
