Updated: Demopolis set to celebrate Fourth of July

Updated: Portion of BBQ gate proceeds to assist Harrison medical expenses

Residents of Marengo and surrounding counties will once again have an opportunity to celebrate the Fourth of July in style, culminating with the Demopolis Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual fireworks show on the banks of the Tombigbee River tonight.

Freedom on the River festivities begin this afternoon with a new twist to the yearly celebration – a Local BBQ Cook-off at George “Pop” Franks Field near the Demopolis City Landing. Admission to the cook-off will be $5, with local cooks offering free samples. A portion of the gate proceeds will be donated to assist with the medical expenses for Amanda Harrison, a Westside Elementary School teacher who is battling encephalitis at UAB Hospital.

Various other food vendors and children’s activities are also slated for the afternoon’s activities.

The Children’s Patriotic Parade will be held at 6:30 (registration begins at 6 on the Civic Center grounds near the tennis courts). The parade will make its way from the Civic Center to the City Landing, with prizes awarded in three age groups.

The popular local band “Heart Attack” will perform once again at the City Landing, beginning at 7 p.m., with the always-popular fireworks show scheduled to start at 8:45.

Despite weather forecasts that include a chance of rain, the Chamber of Commerce has announced events will proceed as planned unless there is lightning in the area.

The West Alabama Watchman wishes its readers a safe and happy Independence Day!