Greer Citizen Fourth of July '13

8/12/2019 Greer Citizen Fourth of July '13

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FourthFestive

The Greer Citizen 2013


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2 THE GREER CITIZEN PAGE LABEL WEDNESDAY, JUNE 26, 2013

LAND

OF THE

FREE

AND THE

HOME

OF THE

BRAVE

Ce e ratingour ree om

Honoringour rave

ty

America

Festive Fourth

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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 26, 2013 PAGE LABEL THE GREER CITIZEN 3

The City of Greer will salutethe men and women of theArmed Forces and providefood and entertainment to cel-

ebrate the nations birthdayduring Freedom Blast on June29 at City Park.

City Administrator Ed Drig-gers outlined Freedom

Blast activities.

Freedom Blast. It is awonderful activity for us

in the City of Greer, Drig-gers said.

The Swingin Medallions will headline the en-tertainment portion of the evening, taking themain stage at 7:45 p.m. The seventh season ofGreer Idol and the third season of Greer Idol

Teen will begin at 6 p.m.

The pie-eating contest will take place at theamphitheatre at 7:15 p.m. Advance registrationis available at cityofgreer.org for those whowould like to participate.

A salute to veterans and current members ofthe U.S. military will be at 9:45 p.m. and theZambelli Fireworks Company will conclude the

evening with a fireworks display that includespatriotic music.

Food vendors will set up along the Prome-nade from 6-10:30 p.m. and Pepsi and Bud-weiser will be on sale at beverage carts.

A Kids Zone with free crafts and activities willbe set up from 6-8 p.m. in City Park. A $5 wrist-band gives children access to the inflatablesarea, with nine air-filled attractions from 6-9:30p.m.

The National Guard will bringmilitary vehicles, including theFreedom Chopper, to an area

on Poinsett Street. Guestscan also scale a rock-climbing tower.

The Blood Connec-tion will take dona-tions from 6-9 p.m.

A mobile website will give participants at-a-glance access to the complete schedule eventsby scanning a QR code at the festival.

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Performance Welding

CELEBRATING OUR FREEDOM

City of Greer hostsFreedom Blast Saturday

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ENTERTAINMENT

Greer Idol Teen ....................... .............. ............. .............. .............. .............. .............. ....6 p.m.

Greer Idol ........................ .............. .............. ............. .............. .............. .............. ......6:30 p.m.

Pie Eating Contest ......................................................................................................7:15 p.m

The Swingin Medallions ............................................................................................7:45 p.m

Salute to the Armed Forces .......................................................................................9:45 p.m.

Fireworks Display ....................................................................................................10:15 p.m.

ACTIVITIES

Kids Zone .................................................................................................................... 6-8 p.m.

Inflatables ............................................................................................................. 6-9:30 p.m.

Blood Drive ................................................................................................................ 6-9 p.m.

FOOD COURTFood and Drinks .............................................................................................Until 10:30 p.m.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS |

Swingin Medallions7:45 p.m. on the Main Stage

A tradition continues in 2013 as Freedom Blast once again welcomes an Upstate band toheadline the event beginning at 7:45 p.m.. The Swingin Medallions from Greenwood have beenentertaining audiences for more than 50 years with a high-energy stage show that has earnedthem the title Party Band of the South. Inspired by early rhythm and blues acts, the SwinginMedallions found national fame in 1966 with the million-seller Double Shot (of My Babys Love),which reached #17 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. She Drives Me Out Of My Mind and Hey, Hey,Baby were also top 40 hits for the band.

Pie Eating Contest7:15 p.m. on the Amphitheater Stage

Whats your favorite: cherry, apple, or blueberry? Sign up for the annual pie eating contest andyoull have to settle for the pie du jour, but attack it with gusto and you may just win a prize. Inquire

at the Guest Relations Tent about joining the fun, which starts at 7:15 p.m. on the AmphitheaterStage.

PatriotChopper

New to the festival will be anappearance by the Patriot Chopper, acustom motorcycle built in 2007 byOrange County Choppers for theNational Guard and made famous onOCCs popular Discovery Channelprogram. OCC patriarch Paul Teutul Sr.

unveiled the bike at the Army NationalGuard Readiness Center in Arlington,Va.

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Food Court MenusPromenade

Sponsored by Pepsi and Budweiser. Both areavailable on the Promenade and at boothsaround the park. Food and beverages will beserved until 10:30 p.m. Food sales will beginonce vendors are set up.

TEDS STREET FOODSPhilly Steak SandwichPhilly Chicken SandwichSausage HoagieFootlong Corn DogChili Cheese FriesOnion Rings

LOWES HOT DOG CARTGerman BratwurstBeef Hot Dog

Nachos w/ Chili and CheeseLemonadeSweet Tea

FUNNELICIOUSFunnel Cake w/ Chocolate DrizzleFried OreosRibbon FriesItti Bitz Ice Cream DotsFrozen LemonadeRhino Lemonade Mug

ROCK STAR GRILLE

BBQ SandwichHamburgerCheeseburgerDouble CheeseburgerCarolina BurgerBeef and CheddarRibeye Steak SandwichGrilled Chicken SandwichSeasoned FriesSweet TeaLemonadeArnold Who?

MERRELLS PIZZAPepperoni PizzaCheese PizzaIced Tea

OSCONCESSIONS

Hawaiian Hot DogFrench FriesBlooming OnionLemonade

EAGLE KETTLE KORNKettle Korn

Village Square 879-4012Greer, SC - Next to Little Caesars

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Greer Idol/Teen Idol debut during Freedom BlastBY AMANDA BRADFORD

STAFF WRITER

Audiences received a taste of the talent thatcan be expected to compete in this years GreerIdol competition during Family Fest in May, andnow this Saturday at 6 p.m. during FreedomBlast, audiences will have a chance to see 26contestants 13 adults and 13 teens com-pete again while singing American inspiredsongs.

This years Greer Idol Contestants are: HannahClayton, Jamesia Downs, Judy Fowler, JonathanHannon, Kieffer Ang Mendoza, Javy Pagan, Bri-onah Pride, Squeaky Joe Patrick Quinn, LaurenMichelle Surkamer, Nikita Thompson, MeganWatts, Lauren Ashley Waynick and Chase Wolfe.

HANNAH CLAYTONFor Clayton, being in the public eye will be

nothing new. Clayton has a background in the-atre and is a regular performer on channel 16WGGS Niteline, in addition to being a memberand singing at New Beginning Full GospelChurch. This fall, Clayton will be a sophomore atNorth Greenville University where she is study-ing music. Presently, Clayton has an artist con-tract with T3 Talent in Spartanburg. In additionto singing, she loves playing guitar and writingmusic.

JAMESIA DOWNSDowns, a graduate of Byrnes High School, is a

lead vocalist of The Enforcers Band and in 2011she placed third and in 2012 she placed fifthoverall in the 32nd Annual Evening of Talent Ex-pressions. Downs has been singing since shewas able to talk and hopes to open her ownnightclub where she can sing.

JUDY FOWLERFor as long as she can remember, Fowler has

been singing. At age 5 she began singing in

church and she has competed in the Spartan-burg Model Cities Talent Show, the Dodge CityCountry Music Showdown and sung on theGrand Ole Opry Stage, where she won thirdplace.

I mostly do gospel music, but artists that in-spired me were the great Patsy Cline, of courseDolly Parton and Loretta Lynn, Fowler said.

Presently, Fowler and her daughter performtogether with the gospel group Mercy andGrace at nursing homes and prison ministries.In addition to singing, Fowler plays guitar andmandolin. Saturday, Fowler will sing Lee green-woods God Bless the U.S.A.

JONATHAN HANNONAt age 13, Hannon picked up the guitar and

later began performing with his churchs youthgroup. Recently, Hannon began incorporating

the piano in his music. Initially, singing was achallenge for Hannon who is admittedly an in-trovert.

I am not really a talker. In order for me tobest communicate what is going on in myhead, I write and sing songs. I have been givenbreath to breathe, and I intend not to waste it,Hannon said.

KIEFFER ANG MENDOZA

Mendoza began singing around age 12. In2012, he was a finalist in Greenville CountysBest Singer in the District competition and in2013 he competed with the Greer High SchoolHonor Choir at the S.C. State Festival, where hischoir earned third place. This weekend he willsing, If youre Reading This, by Tim McGraw.

Some of my musical inspirations are the CivilWars, David Crowder Band, Blink-182, and OwlCity. And oddly, I also really enjoy Taylor Swiftsmusic, Mendoza said.

JAVY PAGA NPagan, a graduate of North Greenville Univer-

sity with a B.A. in public relations, has per-formed with the Mauldin High Singers, MHSSingers Ensemble and Intense, a mens a capellagroup. Pagan also played the Tin Man in Mauld-

ins The Wizard of Oz production and is pres-ently in the production of Annie Get Your Gunat the Greenville Little Theatre.

I started singing when I was 7 in schoolchoirs and started singing solos in churches andmusicals shortly after. Pagan said. Some artiststhat have inspired me are Michael Bolton, Pink,Justin Timberlake, Luther Vandross, AdamLevine and Kelly Clarkson.

Pagan will sing Walking in Memphis by Mark

Cohn at this weekends Freedom Blast.

BRIONAH PRIDEPride, winner of Greer Idol Teen in 2010, is re-

turning this year to compete as an adult. The17-year-old, who is a junior at Riverside HighSchool, directs the music ministry at her churchand is first soprano in her high school honorchoir. Pride has been named first and secondwinner in Greenville Countys Best Singer in theDistrict competition.

SQUEAKY JOE PATRICK QUINNSqueaky Joe has a performance history in

New York Theater, where he sang and dancedoff Broadway, but after 30 years out of the busi-ness, Joe will perform as a competitor in GreerIdol.

LAUREN MICHELLE SURKAMERSurkamer has a four-year vocal degree from

Dallas Baptist University and is a singer and

songwriter. Surkamer plays piano and guitarand helps lead worship at Southside Fellowship.

NIKITA THOMPSONThompson has sung for 11 years and was

part of her church choir. Thompson and her sis-ter sang at the Relay for Life of Travelers Restand in high school she would compete in talentportions of pageants. Saturday she will singCountry Strong by Gwyneth Paltrow.

I have been singing on and off all my life, atchurches, cancer survivor dinners, as well as the

Travelers Rest Relay for Life along side with mysister. Ive never sang alone, Thompson said. Inthe next couple months I will be singing on myhusbands show Down Home Gospel, on WGGS16.

MEGAN WATTSWinner of last years Greer Idol Teen, Watts

will be returning this year to compete as anadult. Earlier this year, Watts performed in Char-lotte, N.C. with her guitar and original songs.

The past three years, Watts has been a finalist inthe Nashville Connection, and this years shewas also a finalist in The Best Singer in the Dis-trict. At age 13, Watts released her first iTunes

song, You and Me, and she presently performsin musical theater. Saturday she will be singingTravelin Soldier by the Dixie Chicks.

The artists that inspire me most are MirandaLambert and Carrie Underwood. They are bothnot only extremely talented and successful, butkind, caring, and generous within their commu-nity and around the world as well, Watts said.

Watts said that after winning last year, shewas eager to audition for the adult Idol this year.

LAUREN ASHLEY WAYNICKWaynick, a Travelers Rest High School gradu-

ate, began singing at 3-years-old and has sincesung in pageants, at sporting events and onseveral auditioning rounds of the X Factor.Waynick plans to attend USC Upstate this fallwhere she will study broadcast journalism andsports management. Saturday Waynick will singAmerican Honey by Lady Antebellum.

My friends and family encouraged me to au-dition and it is an amazing opportunity toshowcase my talent and hopefully further mymusic career, Waynick said.

CHASE WOLFE

Wolfe is a member of the Woffords a cappellagroup, Wofford Men. Wolfe, who recently re-turned from a study abroad trip to China, per-formed as a professional in Spartanburgs Danc-ing with the Stars.

Clayton Downs Fowler Hannon Mendoza

Pagan Pride Quinn Surkamer Thompson

Watts Waynick Wolfe

MEET THE CONTESTANTS |

WEDNESDAY JUNE 26 2013 PAGE LABEL THE GREER CITIZEN 7


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BY AMANDA BRADFORD

STAFF WRITER

Contestants participating in this years GreerIdol Teen are Nick Boggs, Gracie Bryant, JarretForrester, Bethany Ghent, Michael Matheny, Jes-si McAtee, Anna McCleer, Adam Rogers, CharlyAnne Roper, Alexa Rosenfeld, Catherine Warren,Hayley Welch and Kody Young.

NICK BOGGSIn addition to being a member of his schools

chorus, Boggs has performed in talent showsfor Southside Christian School and sings withhis father at Tucapau Baptist Church. On Satur-day, Boggs will sing God, Family and Countryby Craig Morgan.

I began singing when I was in kindergarten,Boggs said. I have been inspired by Adele andRascal Flatts because their voices and musicstyles are similar to mine.

GRACIE BRYANTThrough the Carolina Palace Vocal Studio,

where she takes lessons, Bryant has performedat the Chapman Cultural Center, school talentshows and at church. On Saturday, Bryant willperform All American Girl, by Carrie Under-wood.

I wanted to compete this year because I

want to work on not being nervous in front ofcrowds and cause I think its going to be fun,Bryant said.

JARR ET FORR ESTERA sophomore at Blue Ridge High, Forrester

isnt a stranger to the stage. He has performedas Roger in Grease and The London Mer-chant. He also plays guitar in Crownless Kings.

BETHANY GHENTGhent, 14, participates in Spartanburg Little

Theater, where she performed in Annie, Willy

Wonka and Joseph and the Amazing Tech-nicolor Dreamcoat. Ghent finished third in the2010 Liberty Idol and was crowned Miss Redand Black earlier this year. Ghent enjoys singing,playing the piano and violin.

MICHAEL MATHENYMatheny, a junior at Wade Hampton High

School, has performed in shows with Greer Chil-drens Theatre, That Awkward State Theatre Proj-ect and Greenville Fine Arts Center.

JESSI MCATEEMcAtee, a student at Bryson Middle School,

participated in Greenville Countys Best Singerin the District for the past three years, in addi-tion to participating in Laurens Idol for the pasttwo years. McAtee has been training with a vo-

cal coach for the past three years and she playsguitar.

ANNA MCCLEERReturning Greer Idol Teen competitor Mc-

Cleer, a freshman at Riverside High School, hasperformed in honors chorus since fourth gradeand has performed in church musicals. For thepast four years, she has participated in Green-ville County Spring Sing. McCleer auditioned for

The X Factor and has been taking lessons. Shewrites her own songs, and Saturday she will beperforming an original called What do you Say,

which was written by her and her music instruc-tor Johnny Larabee. She said she looks up toartists like Carrie Underwood, Christina Aguileraand Adam Levine because theyre big peoplewho didnt stop trying to achieve their goals.

Without having goals I wouldnt be heresinging because a few times I tried out for The XFactor and I wanted to give up because I didntthink I could do it, she said. I wasnt goodenough. But, it didnt stop me and I just kept

doing it and just tried to push thelimits on what I could do.

ADAM ROGERSRogers has performed in school

plays and Fire productions, and last yearhe won the Hillcrest High School talentshow and the American Idol Experience atWalt Disney Worlds Hollywood Studios. He alsocompeted in the Best Singer in the District. Sat-urday he will sing American Solider, by TobyKeith to honor a friend and mentor of his whogave his life in Afghanistan in 2011 while serv-ing in the Army, he said.

CHARLY ANNE ROPERRoper, a sophomore at Wade Hampton

High School, began performing on stage

at age 5, and since has performed at many the-aters throughout the Upstate. Roper attendsthe Fine Arts Center for voice and she plays pia-no and guitar.

ALEXA ROSENFELDRosenfeld is a returning competitor of last

years Greer Idol Teen. Alexa has sung in pag-eants and last year she made it to the top six inthe competition. Rosenfeld wants to major inart and nursing at Clemson University.

CATHERINE WARRENAnother returning competitor is Warren, who

also participates in the Riverside High Schoolchorus. Warren plays guitar, piano and writessongs.

HAYLEY WELCHWelch, a freshman at Southside Christian

School, performs at worship services at AdventUnited Methodist Church and Elevate YouthWorship advent at UMC, in addition to leadingpraise at Southside Christian School. Welch alsoperforms with Grace Band and CROSS.

KODY YOUNGYoung will have his first performance Satur-

day. Young, who doesnt even perform in frontof his family, will take the stage and sing Proud

to be an American by Lee Greenwood.I started singing at about the same time I be-

gan to talk well, 2-years-old , but Ive never sungin front of anyone, not even my family, he said.I sing in my bedroom behind closed doors orin the shower.

Boggs Bryant Forrester Ghent Matheny

McAtee McCleer Rogers Roper Rosenfeld

Warren Welch Young

MEET THE TEEN CONTESTANTS |

Both contests will begin with top 13 finalists

THE SCHEDULE |SATURDAY, JUNE 29Main Stage

6 p.m.:Greer Idol Teen

6:30 p.m.:Greer Idol

FRIDAYS, JULY 5, 12, 19, 266 p.m.:Greer Idol Teen

7 p.m.:Tunes in the Park

8 p.m.:Greer Idol

8 THE GREER CITIZEN PAGE LABEL WEDNESDAY JUNE 26 2013


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Salute to the Armed Forces9:45 p.m. on the Main Stage

The City of Greer takes a few minutes following the main concert to remind everyone whyFreedom is in the name of the event. The annual Salute to the Armed Forces precedes the

fireworks display and is an original program on the Main Stage designed to help all in attendanceremember that freedom is not free. It not only honors current members of the military, but alsoveterans in attendance. Freedom Blast provides a system through which the public can recognizeveterans service to our country, said Preston Johnson, Commander of D.A.V. Chapter 39 in Greer.Personally, it provides me with a good feeling toward my fellow man. Come thank our heroes fortheir service.

National Guard Vehicles5-9 p.m. on Poinsett Street

The National Guard will fill a large portion of Poinsett Street with military vehicles, giving guestsan up-close look at the machines that keep the Guard moving. From a troop carrier to a BradleyArmored Fighting Vehicle, get an up close look at some of the vehicles used by the worlds greatestfighting force. It is also bringing its popular rock climbing tower back to Freedom Blast along with afootball toss. In addition to staffing an information booth, the Disabled American Veterans aresponsoring a lineup of retired military vehicles certain to excite kids and kids at heart.

Members of the Greer City Council proclaimMay 28, 2013 as Military Spouses and FamiliesDay for their sacrifices and support of theUnited States Armed Forces.

WHEREAS, we recognize the heroic actionsof the men and women who serve the UnitedStates as members of our Armed Forces, we alsorecognize another group of heroesthehusbands, wives, and loved ones who balancefamily life, military life, and careers on the homefront; and

WHEREAS,the spouses and families ofservice members endure lengthy periods ofseparation from their loved onessoldiers,sailors, airmen and Marinesoften awaiting abrief early morning or late evening phone call

to share the news of the day; and

WHEREAS,spouses and families arechallenged to maintain a daily routine whiledealing with the stress of separation from theirdeployed loved ones, taking responsibility for

maintaining homes, meeting financialresponsibilities, keeping up with schoolworkand extracurricular activities; and celebratingmilestones in those absences; and

WHEREAS,that commitment to both theirfamilies and communities mirrors the brave andselfless spirit of their deployed patriots; and

WHEREAS, military families are the ultimatesupport team for those who protect ourfreedom, as evidenced by the tears of sorrowthat fall upon separation to the tears of joy thatmark a homecoming;

NOW, THEREFORE, Greer City Councilproclaims May 28, 2013, as Military Spouses andFamilies Day in the City of Greer, and

encourages citizens to celebrate and supportthe extraordinary spouses, children, parents,and other loved ones who are heroes in theirown right for their unparalleled sacrifices andunconditional support of those who defend ournation.

MILITARY SPOUSES AND FAMILIES DAY PROCLAMATION |As part of the Freedom Blast press conference, Greer Mayor Rick Danner made a proclamation

declaring May 28, 2013 as Military Spouses and Families Day for their sacrifices and support of theUnited States Armed Forces.

WEDNESDAY JUNE 26 2013 PAGE LABEL THE GREER CITIZEN 9


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HAVE AHAPPY ANDSAFE4TH OFJULY!

John M. Rollins, Jr.

P.C.

Attorney andCounselor at Law

219 Randall St.

Greer864-877-0134

LuAnnMasonParalegal

JudyBarnesLegal Asst.

John M.

Rollins, Jr.Attorney

Fireworks Finale10:15 p.m.

The skies above Greer City Park light upevery year as a fireworks spectacular drawsthe City of Greer Freedom Blast to a close.

The internationally-renowned ZambelliFireworks Company launches a 15-minuteshow at 10:15 p.m. Excellent viewing willbe available throughout Greer Station andpatriotic music will accompany thepyrotechnics in Greer City Park.

OTHER AREA FIREWORKS DISPLAYS |CLEMSON

Clemsonfest

Wednesday, July 3, 5:30 -10 p.m.

Clemson University Beach

& Outdoor Recreation Area

$10/car load; Live Music by The Original Out

of Towners; Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m.

COLUMBUS, NC51st Annual Fabulous 4th

Thursday, July 4, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Downtown

Music; Firecracker 5K Run; Fireworks finale.

EASLEYCelebrate America Festival

Wednesday, July 3, 2-10 p.m.

Thursday, July 4, 2-11 p.m.

Old Market Square, Downtown

Annual Classic Car Cruise-In; Entertainment;

Fireworks at 9:45 p.m. Thursday.

GREENVILLERed, White & Blue

Thursday, July 4, 5-10:30 p.m.

Main Street

Free; two stages; Fireworks at 9:45 p.m.

PICKENSPickens Celebrates the Fourth

Thursday, July 4, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Main Street

Live Music by Chris Sligh; Fireworks at 10 p.m.

SPARTANBURGRed, White & Boom

Thursday, July 4, 6-10 p.m.

Barnet Park

$5 general admission; Live Music by Brett

Eldredge; Fireworks at 10 p.m.



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HONORING OUR BRAVE

WW2 veteran looks back on war, lifeBY WILLIAM BUCHHEIT

STAFF WRITER

If youre one of thosewho believe men weretougher back in the day,Jim Wrights life wouldsupport your claim.

The 94-year-old keeps ascrapbook of old photosand commemorative cer-tificates in the Greerhome he built 63 yearsago. At least four of theseare documents he re-ceived for Perfect Atten-dance as a middle school

student in Clifton. In fact,Wright missed just one day

of school from 1930-1934.

Without a doubt, his stout constitution andstunning mental toughness have served himwell throughout his nine-plus decades onearth, just as they did in the Pacific theatre ofWorld War II.

Wright was born in Clifton back in 1919 to amother who gave birth to 11 children (5 diedduring infancy) and a father who delivered mailfrom a horse and buggy. He never got to knowone of his grandfathers, who drowned in theinfamous Spartanburg Flood of 1904. Hejoined the workforce early, and says he didnthave time to play high school sports because

he was too busy shining shoes after school athis uncles barbershop. The cost of a shoeshinein those days was a nickel.

After graduation, he began working full timeat Clifton Manufacturings #2 mill. But in August1942, he was drafted into the Army and sent toCamp Wolters (Texas) for basic training.

I was at Fort Jackson four days and thenwent to Camp Wolters, Wright recalls. Then Iwent to Camp Stoneman in California and wegot on an old duck ship and went to New Cale-

donia. Then we went to Guadalcanal andjoined the outfit there.

That was in January of 1943, just as theAmericans were taking control of the tropical

Solomon Island where over 7,000 US troopshad died. In March of that year, Wrights fatherdied of a heart attack at age 70. The young sol-dier didnt receive word of his passing untilnearly six months later. By then, action washeavy in the Pacific. Wrights company sufferedmass casualties on the Philippine island ofCebu.

There was a Watson guy from Saxon (SC), hegot killed. The Japs got him, recalls Wright. Heand I would have to go down at night to getthe water and supplies, and the Japs got in hishole while he was gone and knifed him whenhe got back in.

Wright says he was almost killed in combathimself when an enemy soldier charged him.

Thankfully for him, it turned out the Japanesesoldiers gun was unloaded. That man was oneof two known kills Wright made in the war. Hechased down another Japanese soldier inside acave and emptied an entire clip on him.

It was him or me, he says.

Early in his service, Wright was appointedfirst scout of his platoon, meaning that hewould be the first soldier to penetrate enemylines during a mission. Ironically, the veteran

says being first was a safer position than that ofthe soldiers following him.

They (enemy forces) would almost alwayslet the [first scout] go through and hit about

They (enemyforces) would

almost always let the [first

scout] go through and hit about

the fourth man in the patrol.

The first scout would hardly

ever get shot at.

Jim Wright

Jim Wright after his enlistment in 1942.


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On this 4th of July, we pause to remember thosewho have paid the ultimate sacrifice and thosewho continue to sacrifice for our country.

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Mon.-Thurs. 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Fri. & Sat. 7 a.m.-10 p.m.

GodBless

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The role of the brave men and women whoserve in the military is an important one, andits one that warrants appreciation and celebra-tion. The following are a few easy ways to cele-brate veterans and their significant contributionto our country this Fourth of July.

Offer your thanks. Serving in the military canfeel like a thankless job, as those who have notserved might not be aware of the risks men andwomen in the military take and the sacrificesthey must make to protect our country andhelp the less fortunate across the globe. As a re-

sult, something as simple as saying Thank youto a current service member or military veterancan go a long way. Veterans know they dontserve in vain, but its still a great idea to let themknow how much you appreciate their effortsand sacrifices.

Help families of active military. Many servicemembers are currently stationed and servingoverseas, and their families back home mayneed or just appreciate a helping hand. Invitefamily members of active military over for din-ner, offer to do chores like cutting the grass or

shoveling the driveway when it snows or helparound the house if something needs fixing.Even if families of active members serving over-seas appear to be getting along great, offeryour friendship and let them know youre thereto help should anything arise.

Visit hospitalized veterans. Unfortunately,many veterans are hospitalized after sufferingan injury during a tour of duty. These veteranssacrificed their physical well-being to protectour way of life, and many spend extended peri-

ods of time in the hospital. Visiting a hospital toget to know a veteran and spend some timewith him or her, sharing a few laughs andthanking them for their service, is a great way tocelebrate the holiday and lift a veterans spiritsat the same time. Recruit friends and familymembers to visit hospitalized veterans as well.

Pay for a veterans night out on the town.Like many people, veterans appreciate an es-

cape from the daily grind. Men and womenwho want to show their appreciation to veter-ans can treat a veteran to a night out on thetown. Have extra tickets to a ball game or play?Donate them to a local VFW. Or if you see a vet-eran out on the town, offer to pay for his meal.

Thank businesses who support veterans.When a local business shows its appreciation toveterans, patronize that business and let themknow you appreciate their efforts to help veter-ans.

Offer thanks for yourindependence

LIVING OUR LIBERTY

Choose your holiday playlist

TRADITIONALAmerica the BeautifulMy Country Tis of TheeBattle Hymn of the RepublicGod Bless AmericaGod Bless the USAHalls of Montezuma

The Stars and Stripes ForeverThe Star-Spangled BannerYankee Doodle

COUNTRYAmerican ChildHomelandAmerica Will Always StandWhere the Stars and Stripes and the

Eagle Fly

Only In AmericaCourtesy of the Red, White and BlueAmerica

POPULARTheyre Coming to AmericaBorn Free

Living In AmericaBorn in the USAAmerican WomanOn the 4th of JulyWere an American BandPhiladelphia FreedomFreedomYoung AmericansR.O.C.K. in the USAFirework

Whether you prefer the tried and true tune of Yankee Doodle or a harder rockingBorn in the USA, a personalized playlist will help bring our your patriotism this holiday.



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Balloon Rides

Inflatables & Childrens Activities

Free Hot Dogs

Welcome

Music Celebration - CrossTalk

Fireworks at Dark

1300 Locust Hill Rd, Greer, SC 29651 864-877-1881www.fairviewgreer.net

Fairview ParkHighway 290, Across the street from Ingles

6:30-8:30

7:00

7:30

8:30

8:40

Dos and dontsof fireworks

As the mercury rises, the parties and festivi-ties that have come to signify summer exciterevelers far and wide. Summer has become theseason of pool parties, trips to the beach, bar-becues, and, of course, fireworks.

Love it or hate it, warm weather seems tobeckon neighbors out of hibernation and in-cites a desire to set things on fire. When cookingover an open flame doesnt satisfy that desire,many take to shooting off bottle rockets andwhistlers. But fireworks can still be dangerous,and not everyone is equipped or legally al-lowed to ignite fireworks. Therefore, to avoidpotentially dangerous injuries, fines or arrests, itpays to follow these fireworks dos and donts.

DOcheck any safety guidelines and warningson the wrapper of the fireworks before lightingthem.

DONTlight fireworks near people, trees,homes, or any combustible materials.

DOkeep a fire extinguisher or water hosenearby in the event of a fire. The National FirePrevention Association notes that the Fourth ofJuly features more reported fires than any otherday of the year.

DONTforget that sparklers and firecrackersare no safer than other types of fireworks. Thetip of a sparkler burns at a temperature of morethan 1200 F, which is hot enough to cause third-degree burns and is hotter than thetemperature it takes to melt glass.

DOleave fireworks to the professionals toavoid injury or fire.

DONTlight more than one firework at atime.

DOwait 15 to 20 minutes after lighting afirework to see if it has ignited. If not, dump thefirework in a bucket of water and move on to afresh firework.

DONTlet small children handle and lightfireworks.

DONThave any part of your body over thefirework when lighting it. Try to use a lit stick orbutane lighter to keep as far away as possible.

DO say no to alcoholic beverages whenlighting fireworks. Your perception anddexterity can be compromised by alcohol.

DOmake sure spectators keep their distance.They should be 25 to 40 feet away from ground-based items and even further for aerial ones.



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COOL WATERMELON CHEESECAKEMakes about 12 servings

Crust:

1-1/4 cups (16 ounces) roastedsalted pistachios

2 cups sweetened flaked coconut1/4 cup granulated sugar4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter, melted Leaf green icing colorFilling:3 packages (8 ounces each) cream

cheese, softened2/3 cup granulated sugar1 teaspoon imitation clear vanilla1 cup heavy whipping cream1 package (16 ounces) frozen whole

strawberries, thawed, pureedand strained (about 1-1/2 cups)1 envelope (1/4 ounce) unflavored gelatin No-taste red icing color1/2 cup mini chocolate chips, divided

In food processor, pulse pistachios until

coarsely ground. Add coconut, sugar, butterand icing color; pulse until well combined. Pressinto bottom and 3/4 up side of 9-inch spring-form pan. Refrigerate while making filling.

In large bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar andvanilla until light and creamy. Add heavy creamand beat until combined.

In small saucepan, bring strawberry juice justto boiling, stirring constantly. Remove fromheat. Sprinkle gelatin evenly over top and whiskvigorously to dissolve completely, about 3 min-utes. Pour into cream cheese mixture. Add icingcolor and beat until well combined. Beat in 1/3

cup mini chocolate chips. Pour into chilledcrust. Sprinkle top with remaining chocolatechips. Refrigerate until set, about 3 hours.

Rita

AllisonPROVEN

CONSERVATIVE

LEADERSHIP

Thank YouDistrict 36

for the honor of serving you.YOU are why I serve!

Thank You Veterans - You Are Why We Celebrate!Contact: P.O. Box 93, Lyman, SC 29365

864-909-1092

[email protected] www.imforrita.com

...Because She Caresand is a strong advocate for District 36

and the State of South Carolina

The price of freedom

Disabled American Veterans

Building Better Lives for Americas Disabled Veterans and their Families

www.DAV.com

Fireworks dont have to be the only party ele-ment that makes guests ooh and ah during July4th festivities. With colorful sweets that sparkleand a themed tablescape exploding with red,

white and blue, your party is sure to be the beston the block.

Adding patriotic flair to your IndependenceDay celebration is easy with the right recipesand decorating accents, said Nancy Siler, vicepresident of consumer affairs at Wilton. Putyour personal John Hancock on the party byturning traditional summertime foods intoamazing sweet treats.

Try these dessert ideas from the Wilton testkitchen for a celebration that ends with a bang:

Burgers with a Sweet Bite: Traditional burg-ers are a staple for summer parties; switch

things up by building burgers with unexpectedingredients. Start with whoopie pies for thebuns, add a brownie patty, roll yellow fruit can-dies into thin layers for cheese, and top it offwith red and yellow Sparkle Gel for ketchup andmustard.

Playful Twist on Summer Fruit: Make mouthswater by serving up slices of delicious water-

melon ... cheesecake! Strawberry cheesecakedotted with mini chocolate chips imitates thecenter of the fruit, and a pistachio and coconutcrumble crust mimics the watermelon rind.

For more celebration ideas, visit wilton.com.

Outshine the fireworks with these sparkling sweets

ANGEL FOOD CAKE PUSH POPS WITH PINK LEMONADE FROSTINGPrep Time: 30 minutes.

Makes: 8 cake push pops

1 package (10 ounces) round angel food cake1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened1 teaspoon McCormick Pure Lemon Extract1 box (16 ounces) confectioners sugar, sifted

tablespoons milk drops McCormick Red Food Color cake push pop molds

Cut angel food cake into 1/2-inch thick layers.Cut out 32 rounds with the same diameter asthe push pop molds. For easier cutting, pressout cake rounds with a round cookie cutter. Setaside.

Beat butter in large bowl with electric mixeron medium speed until light and fluffy. Addlemon extract; mix well. Gradually add confec-tioners sugar, beating until well blended aftereach addition and scraping sides and bottom ofbowl frequently. Add milk and red food color;beat until light and fluffy. Fill piping bag fittedwith a small plain tip with frosting.

For each Push Pop, pipe a small amount offrosting into push pop mold. Place 1 cake roundinto tube, pressing, into the frosting. Top with asmall amount of frosting and a second cakeround. Repeat layering for a total of 4 cake lay-ers. Top with frosting.



15/16

Fun Facts about The Fourth56:Numbers of signers to the Declaration of Independence.

John Hancock:The President of the Second Continental Congress,was the first signer.

70:The age of Benjamin Franklin, who represented Pennsylvania, whenhe became the oldest signer of the Declaration of Independence.Franklin County, Pa., had an estimated population of 151,275 as of July 1, 2012. Edward Rutledge

(age 26), of South Carolina, was the youngest.

59:Number of places containing the word liberty in the name.Pennsylvania, with 11, has more of these places than any other state. Of the 59

places nationwide containing liberty in the name, four are counties:

Liberty County, Ga. (65,471), Liberty County, Fla. (8,276), Liberty

County, Mont. (2,392) and Liberty County, Texas (76,571).

2.5 million:In July 1776, the estimatednumber of people living in the newlyindependentnation.

316.2 million:The nations estimatedpopulation on this JulyFourth.

Source: http://www.census.gov/

newsroom/releases/archives/facts_for_features_special_editions/cb13-ff14.html

We salute the men and women whohave so honorably served ourcountry throughout history. We salutetheir courage, selflessness and theirdedication. Tis 4th of July, we thank

those who have fought and continue tofight to defend our democratic idealsand secure our freedoms. With deepgratitude, we say Tank You!!

301 McCall Street, Greer, SC 29650848-5500

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16/16

McAbee

Tractor

& Turf

3284 E. Gap Creek Rd.(3 miles north of

Greer on Hwy 14)

Greer, SC 29651(864) 848-0174

Documents

Greer Citizen Fourth of July '13