Go to the homepage for the Sylva Herald and Ruralite

July 4th artwork

Thousands turn out for Fourth of July celebration

By Lisa Majors-Duff

July 4th fireworks, downtown Sylva, NC "The people really got into the music. They were dancing and singing along with the bands," said a recreation department staffer.

"The crowd was wonderful," Sylva Mayor Brenda Oliver said. "The street was packed from Wachovia to the old Ritz parking lot. I was elated by the whole experience."

Other activites on Main Street included a SPIR-sponsored bingo game and bake sale, as well as face painting and sidewalk chalk for children. Funds raised by SPIR will be used toward revitalization efforts on Mill Street, President Jay Spiro said.

"I really liked seeing the smaller children enjoying the festivities," Oliver continued. "This was a great example of good, family entertainment."
Recent Smoky Mountain High graduate Rady Large summed up the event for many when he yelled to the crowd, "God bless America."
Crowd dancing to Smoky Mountain Drum'n Bass
Dancing Baby Robert 'James' Brooks Little Girls
Smoky Mountain Drum'n Bass
Girl eating cupcake Kid eating watermelon

Back to Archive: 07/06/00.