American 4th of July

American 4th of July

We are celebrating the 240th birthday of our great country and there have been many changes since our founding fathers signed The Declaration of Independence. There are many traditions we enjoy for the 4th, such as eating watermelon, going to the lake to fish and relax, games, great BBQ, and of course, fireworks. There are several places close to home to enjoy these traditions. One of the best is Horseshoe Lake.

Because the 4th is on a Monday, almost all the events will be on Saturday, July 2nd. The 5K-run will register at 6:30 a.m. at Bonds Store and the run begins at 7 a.m. from the store. The entry fee is $20.

The bicycle race will register at 8 a.m. at the Old Store going into Horseshoe and will start at 8:30 a.m.

and the ride will be all around the lake. Entry fee is $20. There will be trophies for both events.

At the Surf Club there is a 8:30 a.m. fishing rodeo. At 10 there is a corn hole toss and at 11 the horseshoe tournament will begin.

About 10:30 the waterslide and children’s games begin. Noon will be the most important event, the American flag raising celebration. There is a live auction starting at 1 p.m.

and several cake walks at different times during the day.

For folks that have boats, at 6:30 p.m. the Boat Parade will start on the west side at the Pat Bond boat ramp. That’s the old Pete Streiff ramp and will end at the Surf Club. No entry fees are required and there will be judging and trophies awarded.

At dark, The Fireworks Show starts with several thousand dollars worth of fireworks being set off on the Five Lakes Club side.

It is always a spectacle. Bring skeeter dope because its summer time and the bugs will be out.

The Fire Department is sponsoring many of the events and all the entry fees go to pay for the firework show. The fire dept will follow both the 5Krun and the bicycle event to provide help in case of an emergency. They are selling the new T-shirts that really look good for $20. Most folks will have them on.

Because of the expense of the fireworks, there is a need for donations. To help with the expense, call Kay Rhodes at 870-339-2205 or Holly Bacon at 870-3393514. Donations may also be left at Bonds Store.

Remember that BBQ is part of the 4th. Some of the best is done at Bonds Store. The big smoker turns out some of THE BEST ribs, Boston butts, and chicken you have ever eaten. Call and reserve your BBQ at 870-3392464.

It is so hot that the fishing has been very slow, so enjoy your 4th of July in the cool and be thankful we live in such a wonderful country. We are greatly blessed. All these events are open to the public and folks from out-of-state and every where are welcome to celebrate with us. Send me some pictures and outdoor stories. You might get your picture in the paper.

Don’t forget, that kid wants to go with you.

Papa Duck Lakeside Taxidermy 870732-0455 or 901-482-3430 jhcriner@hotmail.com

Submitted photos

Veterans Go Fish

Top: Dr. Debra Thomspson with the VA, and her four-legged friend mug for the camera at a recent special veterans’ fishing event at Horseshoe Lake; Middle: John Bridgeforth (foreground) holds up a nice bass, while Kenneth Wallace enjoys the day fishing (center). Bottom: Clay Mayfield, a veteran, with a fish on the line.

By John Criner Outdoors Columnist