THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Friday, July 8, 1994 TAG: 9407060144
SECTION: CHESAPEAKE CLIPPER PAGE: 16 EDITION: FINAL
LENGTH: Medium: 55 lines
THE WEATHER cooperated, keeping the Fourth of July temperature in the mid-80s. That meant a number of families came out and had fun in the sun and shade at this year's annual old-fashioned Fourth of July celebration at South Norfolk's Lakeside Park.
The crowd enjoyed a relaxed afternoon of food, music and family fun, said R. Darrell Morse, one of the planners of the patriotic outdoor event.
``We estimate about 2,000 people came and had a good time,'' said Morse, president of the South Norfolk Civic League. ``It wasn't as hot as it's been in the past, and it wasn't too bad in the shade, either.''
Many people came for the entire day, he said.
``We noticed families came, spread out their blankets, set up lawn chairs and either grilled their own food or kept our food vendors busy,'' Morse said. ``They enjoyed the entertainment and had fun running around chasing each other and playing Frisbee. It truly was a family event.''
All of the exhibitors, clubs, organizations, entertainment and food vendors who were scheduled to show up made it to the park.
``Everybody showed up and did what they were supposed to do,'' Morse said. ``And with an event of this size, you can't ask for anything more.''
He said children enjoyed face painting, pony rides and other kiddie events. In addition, he said families were also kept busy with the event's continuous entertainment.
``From Elvis all the way to the dancers, everybody enjoyed the entertainment,'' Morse said. ``When Elvis (local King impersonator Sterling Riggs) came on you could see people shifting to his stage. His act was one of the most popular there. People also loved Wild Country; they played for two hours and closed out the day. They had a lot of people dancing and clapping by their stage.''
Morse said the event couldn't have taken place if it wasn't for the support and sponsorship received from neighborhood businesses, clubs, organizations and individuals.
``It was an all around community effort, that's what made it so successful.'' ILLUSTRATION: Photos by C. BAXTER JOHNSON
Sterling Riggs impersonates Elvis on the main stage at the annual
old-fashioned Fourth of July celebration at South Norfolk's Lakeside
Park.
Three-year-old Jessica White enjoys getting a ride as Bonnie Smith
of Hasie's Party Ponys leads.
Erika Karras, left, and Kimberly Stroud watch the entertainment.
by CNB