Unity in the Community members are finalizing plans for the 2nd countywide 4th of July Celebration.

This family event will take place in the Long Leaf Gateway Park in Prentiss on July 4th 6-9 p.m. ending with a fantastic fireworks display.

A beverage booth with free popsicles, lemonade and watermelon slices will be provided by the UITC members.

Local volunteer talent such as vocalists, bands and church groups who wish to participate in the entertainment are welcome, the more patriotic music sing-a-longs the better and there will be games for the kids such as a watermelon seed spitting contest.

The first event of its kind last year was a huge success and this year’s event promises to be even better.

Members of Unity in the Community are selling chances on a Lifetime Charcoal Grill and accessories donated by SCCI, Speights Cash & Carry, Wal-Mart of Columbia and M.G. Dyess. The proceeds from the sales will fund the celebration.

Tickets are still on sale at this time for $5 and ticket sales will continue until July 4th with drawing time at 7 p.m.

Celebrating our country’s foundation each year with picnics and fun as well as fireworks and speeches is a tradition well worth keeping alive.

After all, that is what our country is, a living breathing viable thing of which we are all a part regardless of race, religion or location.

Bring your blanket or lawn chairs to relax and enjoy the music and fellowship with your neighbors while we celebrate the birth of our country together.

For further information or to be placed on the entertainment participation list contact Mary Ann Hudson at 601-792-9617 or Judy Cole at 601-765-2318 by July 1st.