By By Janet Little Cooper
The Poarch Band of Creek Indians lit up the skies of southwest Alabama Tuesday night with a firework spectacular in celebration of Independence Day.
People from as far as Mobile and Pensacola, Fla., flocked to Arrowhead Park in Poarch for the tribe's sixth annual Fourth of July celebration.
"Our fireworks display is one of the largest fireworks show on the Gulf Coast," Poarch Band of Creek Indians Community Relations Director Sharon Delmar said. "People travel from Pensacola and Mobile to see the show. The 4th of July show was a great success. The crowd was entertained by local entertainment, and it all ended with an amazing fireworks show that
lit up the sky."
Before the colorful fireworks dazzled the night sky, local talent including Poarch Idol winners Kim McGhee and Fields McGhee entertained the crowds of spectators.
Guest speaker Col. Charles Lowery, retired from the United States Army National Guard, addressed the masses with a message of hope and freedom that had been granted to U.S. citizens by the men and women who have fought and continue to die for our freedoms.
Lowery's speech was followed by a military salute presented by the Atmore VFW Post 7016 and the American Legion Post 90.
"First and foremost our goal is to honor the veteran's during the celebration," Delmar said. "Our guest speaker was Col. Charles Lowery and our entertainment was highlighted by the presentation made by the VFW and American Legion."
According to Delmar, an authentic cannon was brought out by Pepsi and was fired after the announcement of each branch of service, and prior to the fireworks show.