More to July fourth than fireworks

Thanks to the 56 men who risked their lives, families and property by signing the Declaration of Independence and the millions of men and women who have served the country since, America celebrates its 229th birthday on Monday.

But there's more to the local July 4 celebration than fireworks, beer and Lee Greenwood songs.

n Starting Friday, Carson City's Mills Park will play host to RSVP's 13th Annual Fourth of July "Cavalcade of Spectaculars," carnival and fireworks fund-raiser for the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program. Ticket sales and vendor registration money goes to support the Home Companion program, which aims to prolong senior independence, and to the Life Line Program, which provides seniors emergency help at the push of a button.

A fireworks spectacle will begin at 9:15 p.m. from behind Carson High School.

n For more soothing patriotic sounds, The Sierra Philharmonic League presents "Pops in the Park," classical music at the Mormon Station in Genoa.

It starts at 1 p.m. with a silent auction. Plenty of food and refreshments will be available. For details, call 267-2403.

n For a Scottish-style American Independence Day (or as they might refer to it, a celebration of England losing), the Sierra Highlanders will be playing at Virginia City's historic Piper's Opera House at 2 p.m., following the main street parade. General seating is $10 and only $5 for 5- to 16-year-olds; box seats $25. Tickets are available at the door or by calling 885-8320.

The performance is a benefit to raise money to send the band to Glasgow, Scotland, to compete as the first Nevada representative at the prestigious Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association's World Pipe Band Championship.

n Virginia City's Fourth of July parade begins at noon at the Fourth Ward School, followed by fireworks at dusk. Call 847-0311 for information.

In Fernley, everyone will head to Out of Town Park for traditional live music, a watermelon eating contest, horseshoe tournament, greased pig contest, car show, food and craft booths, a full bar and kids games. The fireworks show will start after dark.

n The Carson City Republican Central Committee is having a free Fourth of July picnic from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Fuji Park on Clear Creek Road. Call Terresa Monroe at 884-9779.

n Contact reporter Peter Thompson at pthompson@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1215.