HAVING A BLAST
City encourages everyone to come to festivities

While there's a chance of rain today, Bullard Fourth of July organizers said the show will go on as planned.

"The rain is, of course, a factor," said Bullard City Manager Larry Morgan, "but the way it's rained -- only in spurts -- shouldn't deter anyone from this event.

Still on sale are $1 raffle tickets and, the public has a chance to win anything from gift certificates for food, movies and prizes to golfing expeditions. And while the city is encouraging the public to attend the event, raffle winners don't have to be present to win.

That list includes a country club golf package and prizes and donations from just about every business in Bullard - as well as many in Tyler and Jacksonville.

"This is a city-sponsored event," Morgan said. "It's a time for city government to give back to the people, and we're glad to do so."

Last year's event netted more than $2,000 for O.L. Ferrell Park, and hundreds attended the event - coming from Tyler and other surrounding areas.

"It's going to be a great night. The fireworks display is - as always - going to be spectacular," Morgan said.

Each year the Bullard Volunteer Fire Department sets off a display that doesn't cost the city a dime.

Morgan said one of the unique things is the "top-notch" entertainment is local.

"We're fortunate to have so much talent in the community," he said. "So it's a great way to showcase Bullard."

The theme this year is "Blast in the Sky."

Prizes for the raffle will be awarded intermittently throughout the event.

And the ongoing park project is a good cause.

"People are always so kind and giving," Frederick said. She has spent a lot of time on the park, and this is a cause close to her heart.

Local veterinarian and school board member Dr. John Alexander is heading up the musical entertainment.

"John's an expert in that area," Frederick said. "He's been invaluable, and he's been a part of this since the beginning.

"He has talent and a real sense of community."

Alexander's band "Nearly There" will perform, as will 14- year-old local Lauren Alexander - whose single has been on the Texas Top 40 country music charts.

"This is a great tradition for all of us," Frederick said. "It's one of those things that really brings the community together."

The celebration officially kicks off at 7 p.m. at Bullard High School.

The fireworks are set to light the Bullard skies as soon as darkness falls, and residents are encouraged to bring lawn chairs.

Food will be available for sale, courtesy of Bubba's Texas Barbecue.