4th of July committee perfects the concept of 'fast food'

[July 02, 2011]  Friday evening, the heat of the day was still present even as dusk approached. However, that didn't seem to break the spirits of a happy little group of volunteers manning a tent outside the American Legion. As motorists came by, most sitting in the air-conditioned comfort of their cars, the group passed out fried chicken dinners in the annual fundraiser that helps support Fourth of July activities in Lincoln.

In the past the annual fundraiser has been a dine-in or carry-out event. This year there was a conflict in scheduling at the American Legion, but the committee was not deterred. They pitched a tent, set up an assembly line, and as motorists pulled in, the volunteers prepared generous servings of fresh fried chicken, baked beans and potato salad, along with bread and a drink.

The Lincoln Park District is the overseer of the fireworks committee and a few years ago was given the fund balance from the old Heritage Days account at the city of Lincoln.

According to Marcia Greenslate, executive director of the park district, each year the fireworks committee uses a portion of the Heritage Days money and also has the chicken dinner fundraiser to support the fireworks display, which annually averages about $9,000.

Greenslate noted that as of the end of this year's celebration, the Heritage Days funds will be depleted, so next year the park district will underwrite a portion of the celebration.

On Monday the park district and the fireworks committee will host a number of activities, including the children's parade from Scully Park to the Rec Center.

After the parade, the city of Lincoln firefighters will face off against area youth in a fun and exciting water balloon fight.

When asked about his strategy recently, fire Chief Mark Miller said that he would not divulge any secrets, but he's sure he'll end the day victorious.

Perhaps taking that as a challenge, Mayor Keith Snyder and Chief Ken Greenslate of the city police have hinted that this year they may join the youngsters and try to even the playing field against the fire chief's high-powered water pistol.

Later in the day will be the park district's annual Splashapalooza at the pool, which always provides some great entertainment for participants as well as spectators.

In the evening, the annual watermelon feed will take place right before the fireworks. Everyone is invited to come out, enjoy some free melon, and find a terrific spot to sit and watch the show, as the day ends with a spectacular fireworks display.

[By NILA SMITH]