Tuba City celebrates Fourth of July

<i>Tyler Tawahongva/NHO</i><br>
Coconino County Supervisor Lena Fowler is all smiles during Tuba City’s Fourth of July celebration. Fowler’s office organized the event in part to help raise funds for their local fire department.

<i>Tyler Tawahongva/NHO</i><br> Coconino County Supervisor Lena Fowler is all smiles during Tuba City’s Fourth of July celebration. Fowler’s office organized the event in part to help raise funds for their local fire department.

TUBA CITY, Ariz. - Last weekend, the community of Tuba City celebrated its inaugural Fourth of July celebration, which was sponsored by Supervisor Lena Fowler's office.

The event, held July 3-4, would not have been possible without the involvement of a number of community organizations that came together to assist with organizing the event, which was held at the Tuba City High School football field.

On July 3 there was a pancake breakfast held to benefit the Tuba City Fire Department, which is in desperate need of financial support. The breakfast was followed by a fun run that had approximately 60 participants, according to Luvina Bilagody. Children were treated to a mini carnival with lots of prizes available.

In addition, hundreds of people lined the streets to enjoy the fireworks extravaganza later that night.

TCUSD Superintendent Bill Higgins stated, "Wonderful, wonderful Fourth of July event. I was there both days and it was an exciting happening for our community and the surrounding communities. The kids' activities to the community picnic, a simply outstanding time. The fireworks display was the absolute best display I've seen in years. It lasted a long, long time and was a thrill for [those] who watched it. Special kudos go to Lena Fowler and the ladies of her office Luvina Bilagody and Lori Scott."

The event was the brainchild of Supervisor Fowler, who wanted to find a safe local event to keep people in Tuba City instead of traveling long distances to view fireworks.

Since the fireworks show in Flagstaff was cancelled, the Tuba City event became a great alternative. Her other vision was to get more community organizations involved. Her vision was fulfilled as the community came out to support the event in whatever way they could. Schools and law enforcement were involved, and Fowler mentioned that she is open to any groups willing to participate in future events.

In past years, the Lions Club had hosted a fireworks show, but nothing of this magnitude had ever been attempted before.

During the festivities, there was a kiddie carnival, a parade, a fun run and field day events, culminating with the fireworks show. On Sunday, there was a community picnic where hamburgers and hotdogs were served. After the picnic, there was a dance as well as a pie eating and watermelon eating contest. There was also a horseshoe throwing event.

On hand was James Bilagody, who served as the emcee for the events with his witty jokes. DJ Quick was on hand to supply musical entertainment.

This event was quite successful and with continued support, will continue to be an annual event for Tuba City.

Supervisor Fowler extends her appreciation to the many individuals, groups and organizations who assisted with the weekend's events.

She is hopeful that even more community organizations will make it a bigger and better event next year.

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