INDPENDENCE DAY PICNIC A GO

An Independence Day celebration, complete with a parade, picnic and fireworks, is planned July 3 and 4 in Cape Girardeau.

The event is sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Eagles, and American Legion.

The festivities begin at 4 p.m. July 3 with a parade from Capaha Park to Arena Park.

At the park, Daniel Dirnberger, National Voice of Democracy winner, will present his award-winning speech, followed by remarks from U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson.

Musical performances will cap the evening's entertainment.

On July 4, activities begin at noon at Arena Park.

The old-fashioned community picnic will include contests like nail driving and tug of war. The popular, and sometimes controversial, cow milking contest returns. Musical entertainment is planned throughout the day.

A fireworks display concludes the event at dusk.

Booth space for clubs and civic organizations is available at no charge. Stands may be erected in the park and tables can be set up inside the A.C. Brase Arena Building.

For information on booth space, call Bud Hager at (573) 243-8634 or the VFW at (573) 334-4438.