Staff Writer

There is nothing quite as American than celebrating the Fourth of July complete with fresh watermelon, games, family and friends, and an awesome display of fireworks.

That’s exactly what the residents of Troy and Pike County will get with this year’s Old-Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration. Plans are underway to make this year’s July 4 celebration bigger and better.

Those working on the event plans met Friday morning to discuss what will make the community-wide holiday event more successful than its been the past two years.

"I think it’s a great event," said committee chairman Dan Smith. "This is a good event for the community and a lot of fun."

One of the topics discussed was changes in the times. Last year, the July 4 celebration at the Sportsplex began at 4 p.m. with activities ending at 8 p.m., just before the patriotic program and fireworks. This year, the games and entertainment will likely start a little later.

Those activities will include a water area for children, as well as games and contests for all in attendance. While the children are playing, parents can grill up their favorite hamburger ­ complete with secret recipe ­ for the BBQ contest.

Once the fireworks start, the crowd should be pleased.

"Each year I add more money to our fireworks budget," Smith said.

When the skies darken, this year, the sparks flying will be an array of colors, plus some new things nobody here has ever seen before.

"This year, I’m looking forward to it," Smith said of the fireworks display that will include music provided by WTBF radio.

Committee member John Parker commented the parking problems from two years ago were practically eliminated last year with the aid of the Troy Police Department.

A traffic problem during the millennium July 4 celebration was eased last year with better flow patterns for incoming and exiting vehicles.

"I want it to be a permanent event," Smith said of the July 4 celebration. "I hope it’s something we can have every year and it will get bigger and bigger."