By By Robbie Byrd, News Editor
This year organizers of the Greater Atmore Area July 4th Celebration will be reminding everyone that there truly are "Heroes Among Us."
The 2002 July 4th celebration will be held at the Poarch Band of Creek Indians Senior Activity Independent Living center, off of Lyn McGhee Drive. The free celebration will start at 7 p.m. and will end with a fireworks show around 9 p.m.
The theme "Heroes Among Us" was chosen to represent this year's celebration. With that theme in mind, organizers have a special group of programs scheduled to honor area heroes.
The program will feature several salutes to active and non-active personnel – or heroes – for their contributions to our area, state and nation.
Escambia County Sheriff Tim Hawsey will be the featured speaker honoring police, fire department and emergency service personnel.
The program invites all local law enforcement, emergency service, municipal fire department and volunteer fire department personnel to attend, in uniform if possible.
Along with onstage recognition of these heroes, a civil war cannon will be fired in honor of veterans from each military branch.
Several different genres of music will be represented at this years celebration, from country to gospel. And, of course, patriotic music will be featured as well.
The schedule of events for this celebration is:
Gehman says that, rain or shine, the fireworks will fire.
Gehman suggests those planning to attend bring a towel, lawn chairs and their family.
No alcohol or fireworks are allowed on the premises.
Restroom facilities will be available, as well as a concession stand serving drinks.
Parking is available. Admission is free.