Independence Day festivities to include live music, boat race

Even though the Clovis and Curry County Chamber of Commerce isn’t quite to their $25,000 goal for the Smoke on the Water fireworks display, Director Ernie Kos said the day won’t be short on fun.

Kos said Wednesday that $18,050 of the money needed for the show has been pledged.

“We always make our goal,” she said. “Sometimes it just takes a little longer.”

Kos said this year’s fireworks show will celebrate both Independence Day and Curry County’s centennial.

“We put a focus on more fun in the park for families,” Kos said.

Even though the fireworks won’t light up the sky until 8:45 p.m., there is a variety of activities for families through out the day at Greene Acres Park, beginning at 2 p.m. with live music and food vendors.

Headlining the entertainment on the stage is Farwell’s Charla Corn, a country musician.

The third annual Matt 25 boat races will begin on the north side of the lake at about 3 p.m.

Coordinator Tim Garner said the races, which were limited to dairies in previous years, have been opened  up to any business or entity. Each team sponsored by a business makes a $2,000 donation to the Matt 25 Hope Center.

Garner said about 15 six-person teams have already signed up. But he’s hoping for closer to 50.

“If families are wondering ‘what is there to do while we wait for the fireworks,’ we have something,” Garner said.

Garner said they expanded the event to include businesses other than dairies because several businesses had expressed interest in the races last year.

First place team will receive $1,250; second place $750; and third $500.

This is the first year, Garner said, teams receive cash prizes and boats and life-jackets will be provided for participants.

The races serve as Matt 25’s only fundraiser for the year and the event is free.

The deadline to reserve a space to be a vendor is 4 p.m. Friday at Clovis City Hall.

To donate for fireworks: Clovis and Curry County Chamber of Commerce at 105 E. Grand or 763-3435