City begins talking Fourth of July

LOCATION: USA

BY: CARRIE HADERLIE / Boomerang Staff Writer

DATE: Sunday, March 07, 2010

 

DETAILS:  The Fourth of July might be buried somewhere under a snowdrift right now, but the city is already planning this year's mid-summer celebration.

Last year, the Laramie Jubilee Days (LJD) board approached the Laramie City Council to say it would no longer plan the annual Fire in the Sky celebration, which has included a concert and fireworks show at dusk on University of Wyoming property.

"We have been trying to do (Fire in the Sky) for over 20 years, and we have yet to show a profit," Glenn Moniz, general chairman of the LJD board, said in July of 2009.

So the city is in discussions with Stonebraker Fireworks of Colorado, a company the LJD board worked with in the past to plan the show, about the 2010 celebration. The display will likely cost around $16,000, Keri Brown, assistant to the city manager, told the councilors Thursday night. She added that a retired fire marshall has volunteered to assist in planning the show.

The council allocated $8,000 for the 2010 show last year when the LJD board was still involved, and will have to fund the remaining half if the council decides to move forward with plans for the show. Most councilors seemed interested in fully funding the fireworks display.

"Not having fireworks on the Fourth of July is like not having Santa Claus on Christmas," Councilor Joe Vitale said.

Councilor Karl McCraken suggested the city look for local sponsorship for the event.

"Could (we have) the 'Little Caesar's Fireworks Extravaganza' or 'First Interstate Bank Fire in the Sky' or something like that?" McCraken said to laughter.

At this time, the city isn't looking for funding partners for the fireworks display but could in the future, Brown said.  Appaloosa Broadcasting of Laramie is working on tentative plans for a concert or show in conjunction with the fireworks display, she said.

The fireworks display would probably take place on the UW campus as in years past.

"I am pleased that the site will remain the same," Councilor Erik Molvar said. "I would just like to observe that if the city is going to be buying the fireworks … I want to make sure the (fireworks) are equally accessible to all of the tax payers that will be paying for them."

Brown said the show is being planned to be visible throughout the city.

"We will have a larger aerial display so you can see it in different locations throughout the city," Brown said. "You will be able to go into the various park locations … this (will be) a family event where you can go to a park and see the fireworks with your family."

Carrie Haderlie's e-mail address is lbedit11@laramieboomerang.com

Reader Comments

Laramie Native wrote on Mar 7, 2010 12:35 PM:

" I was deeply saddened when I heard that there was not going to be a Fire in the Sky this year. I remember waiting up (which seemed all night) just to watch the fireworks from our house and wanted to share that experience with my daughter. Having a funding partner (or several) might not be such a bad idea. It just takes the celebration out of our nations birthday to not have fireworks! "

Pyro wrote on Mar 7, 2010 8:06 AM:

" Why did people laugh at McCraken's comment? Most displays in other cities/towns are sponsored by companies or individuals. I think it is a poor use of taxpayer dollars to fund this. "

Heads up: Another fireworks show on Elliott Bay in 3 weeks

LOCATION: West Seattle

DATE: March 7, 2010

 

DETAILS: A few hours after last night's "surprise" fireworks show on Elliott Bay, we added a link shared with us by a citywide-media friend – who finally found out about what was apparently the only website in the city that listed the show in advance – the City of Seattle Special Events Calendar. Then tonight, in a new comment on last night's story, DSA pointed out that another Elliott Bay fireworks show is on that calendar for Saturday night, March 27 – as with the insurance company having a blast last night, it's for a business celebrating a centennial: This time, General Construction Company (history here), which happens to have a branch here in West Seattle. Coincidentally, that night is also this year's date for "Earth Hour" – 8:30 pm, an hour after the calendar says the fireworks will be happening. (Photo from last night, courtesy Emory E)

 

RSS feed for comments on this post.

1. Thanks for the heads up on the upcoming show. Will mark my calendar so I don't miss this one.                              Comment by Mookie — March 7, 10 10:46 pm #

2. Have a good one guys.
   The Epic Fireworks Team.                                                                                                                                        Comment by Epic Fireworks — March 8, 10 1:24 am #

3. Hmmm. A fireworks show above the Bay once a month might be a fair substitute for the 4th of July show. Ok, maybe not, but still beautiful.                                                                                                                                                              Comment by westseattledood — March 8, 10 12:55 pm #

4. The timing couldn't be worse for all our local birds starting to nest. There are SO many other ways to celebrate that don't impact wildllife.                                                                                                                                                              Comment by WS Suzanne — March 9, 10 12:39 am #

R-Phils Announce 28 Fireworks Shows In 2010

LOCATION: PA

BY: Eastern League (EL) Reading Phillies

DATE: March 4, 2010

DETAILS:  PA -- The Reading Phillies have announced that the 2010 season will be filled with 28 spectacular post-game fireworks shows at FirstEnergy Stadium, giving fans a real "boom" for their buck.

"Fans love fireworks, so let's give them 28 great shows this season," said R-Phils GM Scott Hunsicker. "After each of the 28 games, fans will be treated to a real blast, as our fireworks shows are truly unique and provide fun for all."

R-Phils fans can ooh and ahh beginning with the Saturday, April 24 fireworks show, presented by Carpenter Technology Corporation, and fans can continue to do so all season as the schedule will feature a mix of seven Thursday games, nine Friday games, ten Saturday games, and a special Wednesday night fireworks show, presented by Scott's Miracle-Gro on June 9. In addition, the R-Phils have a huge Fourth of July weekend planned with their two biggest fireworks shows of the year on Saturday, July 3 and fireworks on Sunday, July 4, presented by the PA Lottery.

The first of four great fireworks shows in May will blast-off on Friday, May 7, with fireworks presented by All-Star Distributing/Coors Light. One day later, all fans who attend the 6:05 p.m. game on Saturday, May 8 against the Akron Aeros (Indians), will be treated to another great fireworks show, thanks to UGI Utilities. The Richmond Flying Squirrels will visit for the second time in 2010, and on Friday, May 21, fans will be entertained to another fireworks show, presented by Carpenter Technology Corporation. In game two of the three-game series with Richmond on Saturday, May 22, all fans attending the 6:05 p.m. game will want to stay for even more great fireworks, courtesy of Reppert's Candies.

Seven great fireworks shows will headline the month of June, beginning with the one and only Wednesday show on June 9, highlighting a stretch of four-straight nights of spectacular shows (June 9-June 12). On Friday, June 11, in game one of a four-game series with the Richmond Flying Squirrels, fireworks, presented by CTCE Federal Credit Union, will be a part of an already exciting night at the park. One night later, on Saturday, June 12, fireworks, presented by Comcast, will entertain the fans in attendance after game two of the four-game set. Three more great fireworks shows are planned for the month of June, headlined by shows on June 18, presented by Carpenter Technology Corporation, and Saturday June 19, presented by Glen-Gery Brick Center.

To cap-off the Fourth of July festivities, the R-Phils have a big month of July planned with eight huge fireworks shows, beginning with fireworks on Friday, July 2, courtesy of Carpenter Technology. Great baseball, great food, and of course more great fireworks return just one night later on Saturday, July 3rd, for the second of three-straight nights of post-game fireworks. The weekend concludes with a bang as the R-Phils Fourth of July celebration takes center stage on Sunday, July 4, with fireworks presented by the PA Lottery.

Fireworks continue to light-up the park in July when the Harrisburg Senators come to town for a four-game series (July 9-July 12). On Friday, July 9, fireworks, presented by National Penn Bank, will get the exciting four-game set started with a bang. In game two, on Saturday, July 10, fireworks, presented by International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 429, will give fans a chance for yet another fireworks extravaganza. Three of the final four games in July will have fireworks shows (Thursday, July 22, Friday July 23, presented by All-Star Distributing/Yuengling, and Saturday, July 24).

The month of August is loaded with seven spectacular shows beginning with three-straight days of fireworks on August 5-7, with fireworks presented by Capital BlueCross (Friday, August 6) and fireworks presented by Carpenter Technology Corporation (Saturday, August 7). Three weeks later, on Saturday, August 28, the R-Phils have a special Harley Night planned, and all fans will be treated to a fireworks show, courtesy of Classic Harley-Davidson. The R-Phils plan to light up the sky for one last time in 2010 on September 2 - the final game of the 2010 season. All fireworks shows with game times and dates are provided on page two, as well as online at www.readingphillies.com.

Full season and partial season ticket packages, as well as single-game tickets for the 2010 season, presented by Pepsi, are on sale now and can be purchased in person at FirstEnergy Stadium, by calling (610) 375-8469 or by visiting www.readingphillies.com. Fans can also add the all-you-can-eat Deck Buffet to any ticket for only $11. "Bring the Fam to America's Classic Ballpark."

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C.: Travel tips, parade, fireworks, bloom watch

LOCATION: Washington, D.C.

BY: Jen Leo,

DATE: Thursday, March 4, 2010

DETAILS:

If you are thinking about going to Washington, D.C. ,to see the cherry blossoms, plan a whole holiday around it. The city organizes three weekends of events, March 27 through April 11, with fireworks, a family day, a gala dinner cruise, Japanese street festival, cultural performances, a festival parade and more. Hotels have rates starting at $99 per night during the festival on Washington.org , and the National Cherry Blossom Festival has its own website packed with visitor info.

Here are a few basics to get you started:

When:

March 27: This is the best weekend for family travel. March 27 is called Family Day. There are lots of activities for children at the National Building, plus the festival's opening ceremony with live entertainment.

April 3: Fireworks show on the Southwest Waterfront,  with a lantern-lighting ceremony the next day.

April 10: The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade

For more events and detailed information, visit the National Cherry Blossom Festival Events page.

Hotel deals: On Twitter, @washingtondc pointed me to three hotel deals at the St. Gregory, Beacon and Hotel Rouge, with rates starting at $114 per night. That sounds great, but if I wanted to go on the last weekend to see the parade, I had to test some dates to see what it would cost me. Hotel stays between Friday and Monday, I found, were often cheaper than stays Thursday to Sunday. Here's what I liked for April 9-12.

> The Liaison Capitol Hill, an Affinia Hotel offered a weekend special of 30% off for three-night stays. So April 9-12 came to $375, pre-tax, instead of the regular $537. After taxes, the three nights in a room with a king bed for two people totaled $444.

Or you could create your own Cherry Blossom Festival package. (I added the parade seating for $17 per person, plus taxes and fees.)

* One room for three nights at the Liaison Capitol Hill, an Affinia Hotel
* Two all-day Metro passes
* A live cherry blossom branch to take home
* A bag of goodies from Art and Soul restaurant to enjoy picnic style
* Artisan chocolates
* National Cherry Blossom Festival - parade grandstand seating
April 10, 2010 - two tickets per person included.

My total hotel and festival package came to $631, including taxes. (Checking prices by phone was easier than on the Web.) In the end, I would rather purchase the hotel room and festival seats a la carte to save money. There are many more hotel-package options available on the Washington.org website. Just look for the big "Flower Power" feature. If you are interested in adding extras, such as grandstand parade seating or the festival's gala dinner cruise, refer to that website to see what your options are.

How to get to the blossoms: The maps page has a variety of transportation information for getting to the cherry blossoms in the Tidal Basin area, including the fastest taxi route, where to park, Metro maps and more.

When will they bloom? The National Park Service Chief Horticulturalist Rob DeFeo predicted the peak bloom period will be April 3 through 8. You can also find information on the National Cherry Blossom Festival "Bloom Watch" page.

More info: National Cherry Blossom Festival; National Park Service: Cherry Blossom Festival; Google Images for "cherry blossoms in washington d.c."

Cocoa Beach seeks funds for fireworks

LOCATION: COCOA BEACH

BY: R. NORMAN MOODY • FLORIDA

DATE: March 5, 2010

 

DETAILS: Cocoa Beach is again preparing early for a public Fourth of July fireworks display.

"We're moving forward," Commissioner Kevin Pruett said. "We're optimistic we'll have a successful fireworks this Fourth of July."

The City Commission on Thursday approved $10,000 in "seed money" to begin raising money and hopes to raise the full amount.

The commission also agreed to ask the city manager to plan for the $10,000 in the budget for next year's event.

Last year, the city raised $58,000 of the $61,000 it needed for the fireworks.

It is the second year that the city has taken on the task of raising the money for the event some believe is good for businesses in the city.

The Cocoa Beach fireworks display, a popular Fourth of July tradition that attracts spectators from around the county, fizzled in 2008 when sponsor Ron Jon Surf Shop said the logistics of securing a Coast Guard-approved barge at a reasonable price was becoming a problem. The company remained a contributor.

Last year, the city began early working on getting a barge approved and collecting donations from businesses and individuals.

The fireworks are launched from a barge anchored off the beach near Shepard Park. Approval for the 2010 show is still forthcoming.

Pruett, who is heading up the fundraising said it will likely take extra effort this year.

"As you can expect, the fundraising is going to be a little more difficult this year,' he said.

Contact Moody at 242-3651 or nmoody@floridatoday.com.

Realtors save Fourth of July fireworks

LOCATION: Laguna Beach, 92651

BY: Barbara Diamond

DATE: March 4, 2010

 

DETAILS: ireworks will light up Laguna's skies on the Fourth of July.

Realtors spokesman Michael Gosselin announced at Tuesday's council meeting that the Laguna Board of Realtors had voted to donate $5,000 toward the cost and to guarantee all the funds for the show, which had been eliminated from the city budget when revenues dropped and expenditures escalated.

"We will hold a fundraiser, the location and time to announced," Gosselin said. "But we will fund all of it if we have to."

Based on Gosselin's announcement, City Manager Ken Frank said the council should direct him to sign a $25,000 contract for the show.

It required a council vote to include the direction on the agenda in accordance with Brown Act requirements as the matter that came up after the agenda was posted.

Recreation Committee member Jim Howard applauded the Realtors pledge and presented checks totaling $757 to the city manager.

The audience at the meeting and council applauded.

Heritage Committee member Jon Madison had previously expressed interest in holding a fundraiser at his Madison Square and Garden Café and private donations had already come into the city, including $2,500 from the Scinto Foundation.

According to a letter to the editor of the Coastline Pilot written by resident Dennis Taylor, the city has also received donations from him and from Ed and Cathy Fry.

Taylor's letters were critical of the lack of participation by local groups.

Checks may be sent to City Manager Ken Frank, 505 Forest Ave. Laguna Beach, 92651. The checks should indicate the donation is for the fireworks show only.

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Spectacular projection show of 2010 Winter Olympics

LOCATION: LiveCity Yaletown,Vancouver

BY: Laura Sunday

DATE: 14 February 2010

 Details: London may be bracing itself for the excitement of the 2012 Olympic Games in two years time, but right now in Vancouver, Canada, the 2010 Winter Olympics are taking place. The Winter Olympic Games aren't just about competitiveness, they're also about installation art, water displays and projected images.

LiveCity Yaletown is a festival being held at the same time as the Winter Olympics in Vancouver, and as a tribute to the Olympics a special Olympic themed show will take place each night during the games. LiveCity Yaletown will see many musical acts perform for the public, free of charge, but once the musical performances have ended at the end of each night, the Olympic Games will take centre stage and form part of a unique installation art experience.

The experience will consist of a fireworks and water display, using light and video projection. The fireworks will be set off every night as a video projection screen made of water is fired up into the air. The moving projection screen will then see video and images from the Olympic Games recorded that day projected onto it, as the screen waves and bends with the power of the water jets. The water powered projector screen will be 140 ft wide and 65 ft high and will be fired into the air by Falls Creek.

Scott Givens, the creative director of LiveCity, enthused about the video projector display:

You'll see some cool stuff happening around the Games.

The water itself comes from the pumping station, which is in place to guard against earthquakes. Givens talked about the projected images:

I get to have a hand in it. But a lot of it will have to do with what is really spectacular, what folks think is a great moment and what works on the water screens.

With such a public display of projected images, you can be sure that plenty of spare projector bulbs will be required to ensure that nobody goes home disappointed.

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Fwd: Firework set off nationwide on New Years' Eve

LOCATION: Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City

TIME: New Year of the Tiger

Details: The country welcomed the Year of the Tiger with splendid shows of fireworks  in 64 provinces and cities and all good wishes for a Happy New  Year.

Although it was rainy in Hanoi on New Year's Eve but tens of thousands people flocked to Hoan Kiem Lake (Sword Lake ) to enjoy firework and art performances.

In Ho Chi Minh City dwellers comed into crowed in seven centers around the city to enjoy fireworks. But the biggest crowd was on Saigon River banks where firework was set off from Phu My Bridge which is the longest and highest in the city and opened to traffic several months ago.

Meanwhile central ancient city of Hoi An held launching ceremony of the Lantern  Festival. The world's cultural heritage-city on Hoai River banks glittered in lantern light. Every lantern looked like a diamond enclosed to mossy and poetic Hoi An. The festival lasts to the fifteenth day of the first lunar month.
After firework performance, President Nguyen Minh Triet sent New Year greetings to the people via Vietnam Television. 

"As the Year of the Tiger is coming, I send best wishes to all people, comrades and soldiers in all regions of the country as well as those who are living and studying abroad," said State President Nguyen Minh Triet.

In a New Year greeting letter sent to people nationwide on the Lunar New Year's Eve on February 13, State President Triet said that over the past year, thanks to concerted efforts by the whole Party, army and people, Vietnam has gradually overcome negative impacts of the global financial and economic crisis as well as consequences of the natural disasters and diseases to obtain great achievements in all aspects, especially politics, socio-economics, culture, security and defence.

The position of Vietnam has been improved in the international arena, he said, adding that those successes once again affirm the strength of the national great unity bloc and the sound policies of the Party and State as well as the internal strengths of the country.

"The Vietnamese State and people thank the friendship and practical cooperation of countries and international organisations and will try their best for the prosperity and development of nations throughout the world," he said.

2010 is the last year to implement the five-year National Plan (2006-2010) and is also the year when the country will carry out Party congresses at all levels in preparation for the 11th National Party Congress scheduled for 2011.

This is also a year that has many important events, including the 80 th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the 65 th birthday of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, the 1,000 th anniversary of the Thang Long-Hanoi, the 120 th birthday of President Ho Chi Minh and 35 years of southern liberation and national reunification. 

Therefore, the country must mobilise all resources to successfully implement all objectives set out at the 10 th National Party Congress and the 12 th National Assembly, President Triet said. 

"The whole Party, army and people strengthen solidarity and join efforts, we are certainly successful," the State leader concluded.

White Pass carnival puts fun in winter this weekend at White Pass Ski Area

Location: White Pass Ski Area

Date: March 2010

By: Jeffrey P. Mayor, staff writer

White Pass Winter Carnival events include an interactive snow castle, carnival games, snow sculptures, fireworks, torchlight parade, music and a kids obstacle course.Take Highway 7 south to U.S. 12. Turn east in Morton and travel about 45 miles to the ski area. This is the 24th year the event has been held. The base area events are free. The area also will hold its Ski 4 Kids event, a ski and snowboard fundraiser for Children's Village and Children's Miracle Network. Appropriate for ages 5 to 12, the two-day event is a mix of race lessons and a race. Cost is $110.

Information: skiwhitepass.com/schedule/wintercarnival.cfm

Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2010/02/26/1087286/white-pass-carnival-puts-fun-in.html#ixzz0hOtH9A8i

Rondy fireworks show lights up Anchorage sky

By Channel 2 News staff, ANCHORAGE, Alaska
Saturday, February 27, 2010

Details:  It's the first weekend of Fur Rondy, and what better way to enjoy it than with fireworks?

Hundreds of people turned out for Saturday night's fireworks extravaganza, braving the cold to catch a glimpse of the show.

Gorgeous lights colored the sky as the fireworks were set off for about 15 minutes.

http://www.ktuu.com/Global/story.asp?S=12058382

Fireworks return to festival

By J.R. Williams - jrwilliams@nvdaily.com

WINCHESTER -- Fireworks will return to this year's Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival under an agreement reached Monday with the city School Board.

The fireworks show was canceled last year during a multimillion-dollar renovation to the Handley Bowl, the traditional site of the show. Since then, concerns were raised about the impact stray cinders would have on the new track and football field, which is made of artificial turf.

A solution reached after lengthy discussions between the school and festival officials keeps the show at Handley, but with less powerful firepower.

According to a letter to the School Board from Kevin McKew, executive director of operational services for the school system, "the festival and the fireworks company have agreed to significant concessions in terms of the firing location and the size of the mortars which would allow the displays to proceed in a manner which would not jeopardize the new track and field."

John Rosenberger, executive director of the festival, said relocating the show would have been unacceptable.

"It's so important for us to have it at Handley, we're willing to do whatever we have to do to tailor the show to do it there," he told School Board members. "We would rather do that than have six-inch shells at the Frederick County Fairgrounds.

"We would like to bring the show back up there. It just works. ... It's sort of our kids' night, and it's very important to us."

In the past, the show has used mortars up to 4 inches in diameter that can climb to 300 feet. Under the new proposal, only 1- and 2-inch mortars -- reaching a maximum of 200 feet -- are planned.

Maryland-based Fireworks Productions Incorporated will fire the new mortars about 600 feet east of the football field, according to the proposal. Previously, ground zero was 450 feet east of the field.

"There's virtually no way any embers could reach the field," McKew said.

School Board members unanimously approved the request. Barry W. Deuel, who represents Ward 1, called it an "awfully good compromise."

"It was awfully quiet and awfully dark up there last year," Rosenberger said.

In other business of the Winchester School Board, Superintendent Ricky L. Leonard updated members on the proposed fiscal 2011 budget.

Like school systems statewide, Winchester is waiting on updated budget information from Richmond as legislators work through competing versions of the commonwealth's budget from the House of Delegates and state Senate.

With decreased federal, state and local revenue, Leonard has proposed reductions to programs and services to help bridge the gap. In addition, a current proposal uses $205,642 in carried forward federal stimulus dollars to balance the budget.

"The caution to that: It is one-time money," he said. "It puts you into a deeper hole for next year because that money is not there. ... However, it is my belief and the belief of our staff that we would rather have 12 months to try to find in this case $205,642 over the course of that year than to say, 'We'll just reduce something else.'"

Fireworks at Alicante Spain, Craziest and most Insane Firework you will ever see!!!

Craziest and most Insane Firework you will ever see!!!

 

Alicante which is about 1 1/2 hours from Valencia has a similar festival like Fallas where they burn huge figures and blast off insane fireworks. But the firework above is just plain frightening. … the scariest part starts at minute 7:11! You can skip directly to it by clicking on the minute link.

I prefer fireworks like the one we just saw this Sunday: Mascletà de Colores

Even though I would go to the Alicante one with ear protection and access from a roof or something so I can take a video and pictures for my collection !

Question? Would you ever attend that Alicante Firework?

 

Louisiana Fireworks Festivals for July of 2010

• Louisiana area festivals for July of 2010

Erath Fourth of July Celebration June 30 - July 4, 2010 downtown. 60th annual celebration with fireworks, barbecue cook-off, rides, watermelon-eating contest, water fights, fais do-do, music, food. (337) 937-5393. Official site

Celebrate the Fourth of July

Pecan Ridge Summer Bluegrass Festival July 1-3, 2010, Jackson, Pecan Ridge Park, Louisiana 952. Bluegrass and gospel music, crafts and concessions. (225) 629-5852 Official site

Greater Mandeville Seafood Festival July 1-4, 2010, near Mandeville, Fontainebleau State Park. Seafood, crafts, music, children's activities, rides, classic car show, fishing rodeo and fireworks. (985) 624-9762, Official site

Essence Music Festival July 2-4, 2010, New Orleans, Louisiana Superdome and the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Concerts, along with food and seminars.

Light Up the Sky for the Fourth of July 3, 2010. Hammond, Zemurrary Park. Family entertainment and fireworks extravaganza. (800) 542-7520 Official site

Donaldsonville's July 3 Celebration July 3, 2010. Crescent Park. Fireworks, fais do-do, family entertainment, "Cajun-style" barbecue cook-off, antique car and historic displays. (888)775-7990. Official site

Grand Isle Fourth of July 3, 2010, Bridgeside Marina. Fireworks and entertainment. (985) 787-2419. Official site

Lebeau Zydeco Festival July 3, 2010, Immaculate Conception Church, U.S. 71. Celebrates its 17th anniversary with zydeco music, crafts and food. (877)-948-8004. Official site

Go Fourth on the River July 4, 2010, New Orleans, Woldenberg Park. Riverboat rides, music, food and fireworks. 581-4629. Official site

Eunice Fourth of July Celebration July 4, 2010, Eunice, Northwest Pavilion. Cajun music and one of the state's largest fireworks displays. (337) 457-7389, Official site.

St. Bernard Salutes America Fourth of July Celebration July 4, 2010, Chalmette, Government Complex. Food, music and fireworks display.

Kenner Fourth of July Freedom Fest July 4, 2010, Kenner, Treasure Chest Casino grounds, Williams Boulevard at Lake Pontchartrain. Fireworks.

Main Street Go Fourth Celebration July 4, 2010, Morgan City, Lawrence Park. Music, food, children's activities, fireworks. For information call 800-256-2931.

July Fete July 4, 2010, Crowley, Rice Festival Grounds. Community celebration with a parade, music, children's activities, fireworks and a softball tournament. (337) 788-4100 or (337) 788-4123. Official site

Westside July 4th Fest July 4, 2010. Levee just off Court Street in Downtown Port Allen. 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm. Free Admission. Jambalaya Cook-Off, food & drink vendors, clowns, great music and Fireworks light up the sky on the river at 9:00 p.m. For more information click here.

Let Freedom Ring July 4, 2010, Thibodaux, Peltier Park. Arts and crafts, cultural displays, music and fireworks. (985) 446-5237. Official site

Slidell Heritage Festival July 4, 2010, Slidell, Heritage Park. Music, food, games, crafts, and fireworks. (985) 643-1234. Official site

Star Spangled Celebration July 4, 2010, Baton Rouge, USS Kidd and Nautical Center, 305 S. River Road. Family Independence Day celebration with food, music, an air show, tours of the vessel and fireworks. (225) 342-1942.

Louisiana Catfish Festival July 9-11, 2010, Des Allemands, St. Gertrude Catholic Church. Music, games, rides, catfish-cooking and catfish-eating contests. Official site

Running of the Bulls

San Fermin in Nueva Orleans, July 10, 2010, 8 a.m. Annual festival in New Orleans featuring an Encierro (bull run), which replicates and pays homage to the world famous Encierro of Pamplona, Spain, or "The Running of the Bulls", only our bulls are none other than members of the Big Easy Rollergirls! Official site

Deep South Crane and Rigging Swamp Pop Music Festival July 16 -17, 2010, Gonzales, Lamar-Dixon Expo Center. Festival benefiting the Cystic Fibrosis foundation with music, jambalaya cook-off, car show, poker run and a Queen's pageant. (225) 769-9994. Official site

Christmas In July 17-18, 2010, Ponchatoulas Historic District .Come listen to a variety of live music, stage will be located right next to Ole Hardhide. Outdoor Art & Crafts Festival. Shop early for Christmas. For more information call 1 (800) 617-4502 Official site

Tales of the Cocktail

Tales of the Cocktail July 21-25, 2010, Hotel Monteleone and other French Quarter locations. Lectures, discussions, book signings, dinner pairings, cooking demonstrations, cocktail mixing seminars, walking tours, films screening a bartending course and a block party. 299-0404. Official site

Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo July 22-24, 2010, Grand Isle, Sanddollar Marina. Oldest fishing rodeo in North America with big game, shoreline, spear-fishing and tag release divisions and food. (985) 787-2997. Official site

Grand Isle community Fair & Blessing of the Fleet,July 30-31 and Aug. 1, 2010, Tarpon Rodeo Pavillion. Rides, food and music. (985)787-2997

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Golden Meadow Fouchon International Tarpon Rodeo No date set, Port Fourchon, Port Fourchon Marina, 288 Floatation Canal Road. Boat parade and fireworks (Thurs) and rodeo (Fri and Sat) with fishing contests, music and food.Call (985) 860-3287 for more information. Official site

Morse Recreational Festival No date set. Old-time street fair with music, street dances, crafts, food and a carnival.

Feliciana Hummingbird Celebration Cancelled for 2010, no date set for 2011, St. Francisville, St. Francisville Inn, 5720 N. Commerce St. Evening program and reception, hummingbird banding and garden tours. (800) 488-6502 or (225) 635-6502.

Jean Lafitte Seafood Festival No date set, Lafitte, Jean Lafitte Auditorium. Plenty of seafood, rides, music and folk life exhibits. Call 689-2208.

http://www.nola.com/festivals/index.ssf/2010/02/louisiana_festivals_for_july_o.html

Fireworks at 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympic Games

Display Location: Vancouver

County: Canada

Date: Feb 2010

Let the games begin. The opening ceremony of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games last night in Vancouver was punctuated by fireworks, special effects, and one poignant moment of silence.

The crowd of 50,000 fell silent before the Olympic flag was raised to remember luger Nodar Kumaritashvili from the Republic of Georgia, People magazine reports. Kumaritashvili died Friday after he lost control of his sled on the track and struck a metal pole.

As each country entered the BC Place Stadium, many wore black armbands as a tribute to the fallen athlete, People says. The Republic of Georgia received a standing ovation when their moment came in the lineup.

Donald Sutherland narrated the ceremony as Nelly Furtado, Joni Mitchell, K.D. Lang, and Sarah MacLachlan proudly sang for their homeland, People reports.

Vice President Joesph Biden and his wife were in the crowd to support the U.S.

None other than hockey legend Wayne Gretzky lit the Olympic torch.

 

Firework on Saigon River in Ho Chi Minh City

Display location: Saigon River
City: Ho Chi Minh City
State/Country: Vietnam
Date: Chinese New Year
Display Company:

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The country welcomed the Year of the Tiger with splendid shows of fireworks  in 64 provinces and cities and all good wishes for a Happy New  Year.

Foreign visitors also took part in atmosphere of New year's Eve in Hanoi

Although it was rainy in Hanoi on New Year’s Eve but tens of thousands people flocked to Hoan Kiem Lake (Sword Lake ) to enjoy firework and art performances.

In Ho Chi Minh City dwellers comed into crowed in seven centers around the city to enjoy fireworks. But the biggest crowd was on Saigon River banks where firework was set off from Phu My Bridge which is the longest and highest in the city and opened to traffic several months ago.

Meanwhile central ancient city of Hoi An held launching ceremony of the Lantern  Festival. The world’s cultural heritage-city on Hoai River banks glittered in lantern light. Every lantern looked like a diamond enclosed to mossy and poetic Hoi An. The festival lasts to the fifteenth day of the first lunar month.

The wrold's cultural herritage -city of Hoi An glittered in lantern light.

After firework performance, President Nguyen Minh Triet sent New Year greetings to the people via Vietnam Television. 

“As the Year of the Tiger is coming, I send best wishes to all people, comrades and soldiers in all regions of the country as well as those who are living and studying abroad,” said State President Nguyen Minh Triet.

Firework on Saigon River in Ho Chi Minh City

In a New Year greeting letter sent to people nationwide on the Lunar New Year’s Eve on February 13, State President Triet said that over the past year, thanks to concerted efforts by the whole Party, army and people, Vietnam has gradually overcome negative impacts of the global financial and economic crisis as well as consequences of the natural disasters and diseases to obtain great achievements in all aspects, especially politics, socio-economics, culture, security and defence.

The position of Vietnam has been improved in the international arena, he said, adding that those successes once again affirm the strength of the national great unity bloc and the sound policies of the Party and State as well as the internal strengths of the country.

“The Vietnamese State and people thank the friendship and practical cooperation of countries and international organisations and will try their best for the prosperity and development of nations throughout the world,” he said.

2010 is the last year to implement the five-year National Plan (2006-2010) and is also the year when the country will carry out Party congresses at all levels in preparation for the 11th National Party Congress scheduled for 2011.

This is also a year that has many important events, including the 80 th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the 65 th birthday of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, the 1,000 th anniversary of the Thang Long-Hanoi, the 120 th birthday of President Ho Chi Minh and 35 years of southern liberation and national reunification. 

Therefore, the country must mobilise all resources to successfully implement all objectives set out at the 10 th National Party Congress and the 12 th National Assembly, President Triet said. 

“The whole Party, army and people strengthen solidarity and join efforts, we are certainly successful,” the State leader concluded.

 

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China Fireworks Sales - A Market Top?

Here is an interesting article about the China Domestic Fireworks Market. My personal observation was the same as this article. Last year, I observed enthusiast sales of all fireworks, including the largest, most expensive fireworks over $100 USD per piece. The tents were too crowed to even enter.

This year, I observed only a few shoppers through the season and the largest items sat unsold. As I looked at the product being shot across the city, I could see that the product quality had gone down considerably from last year. Where last year I saw high quality display pieces being shot all around the city, this year I observed a trend toward a much simpler (and cheaper)salute style cake with boring red and green peony breaks.

As a sat with one of the larger factory owners for lunch yesterday I asked if he heard any updates on the retail sales across the country. He confidently assured me that sales were fantastic. I told him that I am not so sure as that was different from what I had observed. From his perspective, he has just finished the largest domestic manufacturing season on record. The question is, will his customer have large stocks of inventory left over from a slow retail season and will the domestic orders be reduced next season?

The unknown variable is how have sales been across the entire country. Although sales appear to have topped out in the major cities, China's population across thousands of mid to small size cities and the market may continue to grow in these cities for many years as their economic conditions improve.

A possible explanation for why sales have cooled in the largest cities is because fireworks were banned for over 10 years. When the government allowed sales again three years ago, everyone rushed out to relive old childhood memories of shooting fireworks. In casual conversations, I would say as many as 80% of all people purchased at least some fireworks last season. However, the novelty quickly wore off as Fireworks are in fact loud, dangerous and expensive, especially the types available in China. This year, I think people just preferred to look out their windows and enjoy the fireworks from the warmth of their homes, or light a few crackers and fountains with their children or grandchildren.



By Tu Lei

For the vendors in the more than 2,000 red fireworks sales booths throughout Beijing, the annual 15-day Chinese New Year period was more of a bust than a boom.

This year, Beijing authorized 2,418 fireworks booths, up about 10 percent over last year. But like a dud that fizzles briefly before it goes out or just weakly pops, profits were low and discounts were high, according to vendors and distributors.

Manufacturers also reported a slump in export profits for the world's largest manufacturer of fireworks.

High discounts, low sales

"We do not earn money this year," said a saleswoman surnamed Wang at a booth along the North Fourth Ring Road.

Nearly all the explosives, from strings of small ladyfingers and smoke bombs to elaborate aerial display shells, were discounted, some as high as 50 percent, said Wang. She said her most expensive eardrum busters cost about 1,000 yuan ($146.48), but the best sellers were for children and cost only a few dozen yuan.

Two kilometers away, another saleswoman named Tian Shuying echoed Wang's words.

"The Spring Festival Eve was our busiest night," Tian said. "We sold thousands of yuan worth of fireworks that night, but after that business dropped and hasn't been good enough. Today (Tuesday) we've only sold 100 yuan ($14.65) of fireworks.

"The best sellers are all under 100 yuan. There have been too many bargains this year, but if we don't have discounts we don't have any sales," she added.

Tian, who works as a grocer when not selling fireworks, is from Qinghuangdao, Hebei Province, 300 kilometers away from Beijing. She opened the 24-hour booth February 10, three days ahead of Chinese New Year's Eve.

A fireworks distributor who declined to give his name told the Workers' Daily that last year he invested 520,000 yuan ($76,167.04) in four booths and earned 540,000 yuan ($79,096.54). But this year his profit will be less than 200,000 yuan ($29,295.02).

Pan Di, general manger of Beijing Panda Fireworks, a leading fireworks manufacturer who participated in the opening ceremony's fireworks of the 29th Olympiad in Beijing, said that the sales this year were almost the same as last year, and consumers were careful about making their purchases.

"In past years, the sales of large fireworks weren't bad, but now inexpensive small ones are often sold out. Some consumers would rather shop around to make a final decision," said Pan, who added the average amount spent is about 300 yuan ($43.94).

Although the average price of fireworks in Beijing is less than 5 percent higher than last year, some residents said they were reluctant to spend even that much.

Penny pinching buyers

In a random poll of 20 people who bought fireworks in a community near the Fourth Ring Road, 12 said they spent less than 100 yuan on fireworks this year and only two said they spent more than 1,000 yuan.

Xu Quan, a technician for a US company said he only bought the fireworks for his young son. "Seeing other people blow off fireworks is also ok for me," said Xu.

Moreover, to save money, some residents cut costs by buying them even cheaper outside of Beijing.

Han Bing, an employee at Sojitz (China), and a fireworks fanatic, said he typically spent 2,000 yuan ($292.95) on fireworks, but beginning last year he bought them in Langfang or other areas of Hebei Province because the prices are half or even two thirds cheaper than in Beijing.

"I only need to spend around 800 yuan ($117.18) for what I could buy for 2,000 yuan ($ 146.46) or even more in Beijing," said Han.


Skimpy export profits

There were nearly 7,000 producers certified to manufacture fireworks by the end of 2008, said Jin Wencun, vice-director of China Grocery Products for Daily Use Marketing Society, in October last year.

With a market worth about 20 billion yuan ($2.93 billion), China is the only major fireworks exporter in the world because 99 percent of the world's fireworks are made here.

"Nearly one-fourth of our fireworks are exported overseas," said Zhao Weiping, Board Chairman of listed Beijing Panda Fireworks, and vice director of National Fireworks & Firecrackers Standardization Technology Committee.

Zhong Ziqi, general manager of Hunan-based Liuyang Dancing Fireworks Group, said half of the sales are exported to five continents, with the US the biggest customer that accounts for 40 percent of sales, followed by Japan, Germany, and Canada.

"The display shells are the most popular, accounting for 60 percent of the exports," said Zhong, adding last year that sales income was less than 200 million yuan ($29.30 million).

Wanzai, a fireworks manufacturing center in Jiangxi Province, witnessed a sales income of more than 3.2 billion yuan ($46.87 million) last year and the explosives were exported to more than 50 countries and regions.

However, experts said the largely unregulated fireworks export market makes for thin profits.

Manufacturers often produce small amounts, and the average annual output value is only 3.2 million yuan ($468,720.25), leading to skimpy profits and fierce competition, Zou Jianjun, analyst from Fortune Securities, was quoted by China Business News February 6.

Zhao at the fireworks standardization technology committee said at the end of 1980s, the fireworks could be sold for as much as $40 per box, but this year, the equivalent box is sold for $15. "Those big producers nearly earn nothing," said Zhao. In the first half of 2009, Panda saw an export drop of 32.81 percent.

"It is urgent to set up an association to regulate the fireworks export market," said Zhao.

The annual fireworks display at Meadowdale Park

Display location:Meadowdale Park
City:Edmonds
State: Illinois
Date:June 26
Display Company: Mad Bomber Productions, Andy James
Contact:emcfarlan@stmedianetwork.com

Details: CARPENTERSVILLE -- There still will be bang, even for less buck, at the Dundee Township Park District's annual pre-Fourth of July fireworks.

The Carpentersville Village Board recently gave unanimous approval to a request from the park district to have its annual fireworks display on Saturday, June 26, at Meadowdale Park. The village board had voted in December not to give its usual $7,500 donation toward those fireworks -- the first cut from its 2010-11 budget.

Fireworks have been the first to go as many area communities continue to cut their budgets in the struggling economy. Elgin and Chicago both have announced they will not sponsor Fourth of July displays in 2010.

But Deputy Director Jim Miller said Thursday the park district still plans to hold its fireworks display, with or without a financial donation from Carpentersville.

"We'll still do a show, and the fireworks company says it will be a good one," Miller said.

The park district works with Mad Bomber Fireworks Productions of Elgin to put on the display.

The deputy director said he still hopes the fireworks show will last as long as usual, but he said there may be fewer fireworks and longer breaks between the colorful explosions.

Carpentersville co-sponsored the event last year and was the only village in the township that helped fund the annual event. It also contributed support from its police and fire departments.

Village President Ed Ritter said the village still plans to support the event with on-duty police officers and firefighters without "any extra cost to the village."

Miller said, "We couldn't do it without their being there to do that."

Carpentersville's 2010-11 budget has not been set yet. But the village is discussing ways to cut nearly $2 million from that money plan and boost its decreasing revenue.

When some of those proposed cuts include laying off police and fire department employees, plus allowing the village's infrastructure to decay, cutting fireworks was a relatively easy decision, Ritter said.

"We had an idea fireworks would go on even if we couldn't donate," he said. "If we had known we would be the canceling factor, we might have reached a different decision."

1st Galaxy Helps People Look at Nottingham a Fireworks Show

Display location:Nottingham
City:Nottingham
Country:United Kingdom
Date:Feb.7th
Show contact:0845 3889584
info@creamcommunications.co.uk
Display company: 1st Galaxy Fireworks

Details: Nottingham, United Kingdom, February 07, 2010 --(PR.com)-- A spectacular firework and laser display has been specially designed to light up the city of Nottingham for one night only, by Nottinghamshire-based 1st Galaxy Fireworks. This impressive light show will be a focal point of the Light Night Festival being held in the city, an annual event, helping people look at the city in a whole new light.

1st Galaxy is preparing for Nottingham’s 3rd anual Light Festival, where it will be showcasing an impressive firework, laser and light show throughout the evening at Nottingham Castle.

Lee Smith, Display Manager for the company says; "We are delighted to be providing the fireworks display for this special event. We have a truly vibrant event planned which includes lighting up the castle in various colours, having flame effects, as well as firework displays throughout the evening which will complement the colour illuminating the castle."

He continued: "The castle is such a symbolic landmark of Nottingham and a focal point for the celebrations – particularly as it can be seen from miles around. We are confident it will be a fantastic sight!"

Nottingham Light Night is an annual event organised by Nottingham City Council, in partnership with Nottingham Business Improvement District. It aims to allow visitors and Nottingham families to discover a different, and beautiful, perspective on the city. Trails of illuminations and light installations will guide people around the city to visit attractions not normally seen at night, for example Nottingham Castle and St. Mary’s Church.

Lee will be leading an eight-strong team on the night to fire the show, which includes 237 cues of fireworks, each with more than 70 shots; that equates to more than 1000 fireworks and stars. The fireworks displays will begin at 7pm, with firework displays taking place every hour on the hour, culminating with the finale at 10pm. In addition, four lasers will be positioned on top of the Castle and beaming projections onto the Castle; use of the latest architectural LED lights from Italy means that the castle can be lit in a huge variation of colours. The laser lights will be coloured to co-ordinate with the fireworks.

About us:
1st Galaxy Fireworks is one of the UK’s leading fireworks specialists, with expertise in providing displays for all sorts of events, including wedding fireworks, corporate events, parties and celebrations. It also supplies high quality display fireworks through its retail shops and mail order. It is also possible to buy fireworks online ensuring the very best firework collection is available for private celebrations nationwide

Fireworks Display on Perth International Arts Festival

Display location:Supreme Court Gardens
City:Perth
Country:Australia
Date:Feb.5

Details: Flying above people's heads, being suspended from spinning wheels and spraying a 44-gallon drum of water was all in a night's work for Perth International Arts Festival artists.

PIAF's opening night had audiences on their toes, quite literally, when large metal contraptions parted the huge crowd like the Red Sea.

And if this is just the start, then Perth is in for an unbelievable three-and-a-half weeks.

The team from La Fura Dels Baus performed their stunning show against the backdrop of the city skyline at Supreme Court Gardens on Friday night.

Early in the show, a giant crane dropped a winged man atop a large piece of machinery that worked its way around like two horses and a chariot. A large spinning wheel then hovered over the crowd, with seven performers inside letting loose, running around like mice in a wheel.

At another point a dancing woman was suspended over the stage trapped inside a large bubble, which filled with foam as she danced. Just as it looked like she would drown inside, the foam was released and sprayed over the stage while a tribal-style singing and dancing performance went on underneath.

The highlight was the finale, when figures in white jumpsuits were hoisted up by the crane. They created a checker-board style formation of seven people across and eight people down, each moving in sync. As unexpected fireworks exploded, the hooded acrobats stood still and held hands to make a perfect cross-thatched board, as a light show danced over their bodies.

Stunned gatherers left the gardens spellbound by the show created especially for the festival.

Part of the crowd then moved over to the Esplanade to the Becks Music Box for the official after party and opening night of the venue.

The VIPs entered a space that was filled with a fashionable vibe and ambience. The seemingly modest area expanded as guests walked through to the auditorium to be welcomed by lord mayor Lisa Scaffidi, Festival artistic director Shelagh Magadza and general manager Julian Donaldson.

Mrs Scaffidi looked ravishing in black and she officially opened the festival.

Magadza then welcomed special guest Kamy Thompson, who entertained the crowd for the remainder of the night. Thompson, a solo artist from London, played a relaxed, acoustic set and playfully interacted with the crowd.

Becks Music Box is undoubtedly one of the best venues Perth has to offer. With many shows already sold out, it would be a real shame to miss out on experiencing one of its festival shows.

Spotted at the after party were many of the artists who will be performing in the Festival for the next three-and-a-half weeks, including the team from La Fura Dels Baus who mingled with the delighted crowd after the night's spectacular opening celebration

HCM City to greet Lunar New Year with seven fireworks shows

Display location: Ho Chi Minh
City: Ho Chi Minh
Country:Viet Nam
Date: Lunar New Year’s Eve.

Details: VietNamNet Bridge – Fireworks will be set off at seven locations around the city and broadcast live on Ho Chi Minh Television at midnight on Lunar New Year’s Eve.

The locations selected for the 15 minute fireworks displays are: Thu Thiem Bridge in District 2; Go Vap District Cultural Park; Binh Phu Park in District 6; North Western Tan Binh Industrial Zone in Binh Tan District; National Historical- Cultural Park in District 9; Ben Duoc Revolutionary Martyr Memorial Monument in Cu Chi District; and the football stadium in Can Gio District.

Other New Year events include a concert on Le Duan Street which will also be broadcast live on Ho Chi Minh Television’s HTV9 channel on the evening of the last day of the lunar year.

Many art programs by HCMC Movie and Performance Organization Center will take place at: the National Historical- Cultural Park in District 9; Ben Duoc Revolutionary Martyr Memorial Monument in Cu Chi District; Gia Dinh Park 2 in Go Vap District; Cultural Center in District 12; Thoi Tam Thon Ward in Hoc Mon District; Thai My Ward in Cu Chi District; and Can Thanh town in Can Gio District.

The programs will run from lunar December 30 to the third day of the Lunar New Year (February 14-17).

Winterlude to begin tonight with fireworks display

Display location:Major's Hill Park
City:Ottawa
Country:Canada
Date:Feb.5th. 8:50 p.m.

Details: The 32nd annual Winterlude Festival kicks off with a bang tonight with a variety performances, activities and a musical fireworks extravaganza.

The American Express Winterlude Opening will take place at the Canadian Museum of Civilization with performances by The National Parcs, DJ Misstress Barbara, and Saltarello.

The celebration will also feature Glacialis, a performance by Jesse Stewart who will play instruments built out of ice, Nite-Lite, a large scale installation by artist Alexandra (Alita) González-Vucina based on the popular toy Lite-Brite, and H2Orchestra, a demonstration and performance of the world's first and only water-based musical instrument, the hydraulophone.

Activities will also take place at Major's Hill Park, including extreme sports demonstrations by the Flying Canucks and various arts and crafts.

The musical fireworks show can be seen at 8:50 p.m. from Major's Hill Park, the Canadian Museum of Civilization and the Sun Life Snowflake Kingdom in Jacques-Cartier Park.

There have been several changes to the lineup for this year's Winterlude celebration, including the cancellation of the Snowbowl concert series in order to work towards a more carbon-neutral festival by 2012.


Winterlude opening night festivities will take place tonight from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Canadian Museum of Civilization and Major's Hill Park.

The Winterlude Festival will run from February 5 to 21.

Boy Scouts mark 100th: Celebration features fireworks show, music, cake and sparklers

Display location:Cohen Stadium
City:EL PASO
State:Texas
Date: 7 p.m. Monday.
Show contact:772-2292
Event website:www.yuccabsa.org.

EL PASO -- More than 8,400 local Boy Scouts are ready to party. And they've got a lot to celebrate.

The Boy Scouts of America is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. That calls for some fireworks.

El Paso's Yucca Council on Monday will have a family fun event, including a 20-minute fireworks show, at Cohen Stadium.

"We choose to celebrate the 100 years of Scouting the 'American way,' " said John Thilman, Yucca Council executive board vice president and 37-year Boy Scouts of America member. "That includes birthday cake, candles, and -- like any New Year's Eve program -- fireworks, signifying a new century of continuing the Scouting values that the Scouting program was founded on back in 1910."

The Yucca Council also will host its annual Scouting for Food Program food drive, today through Feb. 14. The group's goal this year is to raise at least 75,000 pounds of food for at least 32 area food banks, Thilman said. Last year, local Boy Scouts raised more than 40,000 pounds of food during the annual drive and distributed it throughout the council's territory, which includes El Paso (and outlying areas as far east as Van Horn), Silver City, Deming, Las Cruces, Alamogordo and White Sands.

Lowell Stokes, a former Scout and current den leader, said Scouting has become a family affair. His wife, Christina Stokes, is a Cub Scout pack trainer and his son, Andrew, is a Cub Scout.

"I think (being involved in Scouts has) made all of us get out together and do activities that we probably wouldn't have done otherwise," Lowell Stokes said. "We were so excited this year. Normally we wouldn't go, but we decided to make the (National Scout) Jamboree our family vacation."
Though not yet a full-fledged Boy Scout, Andrew Stokes, 10, already loves the organization.

"It feels good to know that people have been enjoying this for over a few decades and that it also helps a lot of people who don't have very much and the troops who are fighting for our country," Andrew said.

Besides the fun and adventure of Scouting, Lowell Stokes said being involved has also given him a positive outlook.

"It has made me more of an optimist," he said. "I've met so many people that are just really nice people. You read the paper from day to day and get discouraged with society. And then you get in and you meet so many nice people; it's refreshing."

After nine years of volunteering within the group, Tami Gandt, a mother with three Scouts ages 12 to 18, said she also has enjoyed the camaraderie.

"I have met a lot of people that I never would have met before, and there are a lot of nice, good people," Gandt said. "I've also been able to expand my own leadership capabilities as I've done different volunteer jobs."

And the Scouts aren't just for boys anymore. The Scouts' Venturing program is for young adult boys and girls and expands the group's mission on leadership, adventure and hobbies as youth mature.

Gandt's daughter, Malia Gandt, a 16-year-old Venturing Scout and junior at Coronado High School, said the organization offers more than some might realize.

"I think it's really cool, because I'm, in a way, carrying on a legacy," Malia said. "I like being a part of this organization É. The Boy Scouts represent more than what people think and they shouldn't stereotype them. It's an important way for the community to grow and expand to become a community of one."

Jacqueline Armendariz may be reached at jarmendariz@elpasotimes.com; 546-6164.

Make plans


What: Boy Scouts of America 100-year anniversary celebration.

When: Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Fireworks start at 7 p.m. Monday.

Where: Cohen Stadium.

How much: Free.

Information: 772-2292 or www.yuccabsa.org.

Scouting programs

Cub Scouts: This is the first level of the Scouts, for boys in first through fifth grades.

Boy Scouts: This is for boys who have earned an Arrow of Light Award and are at least 10 years old or have completed the fifth grade, but not yet 18 years old. The organization sets out to achieve the program's objectives of developing character, citizenship and personal fitness.

Venture: This is a youth development program of the Boy Scouts of America for young men and women who are 14 (and have completed the eighth grade) through 20 years of age. Venturing's purpose is to provide positive experiences to help young people mature and to prepare them to become responsible and caring adults.
Source: Boy Scouts of America, www.Scouting.org

By the numbers

One hundred years of service.

23 million members worldwide; 8,400 in El Paso.

1.2 million national volunteers.

More than 35 million service hours worldwide in 2008.