Greenwood Freedom Fest packs the city square
by July 4, 2011 10:56 pm 69 views
story and photos by Theresa Burtchett
The July Fourth tradition continued Monday as Greenwood celebrated Independence Day with much more than just a fireworks show.
Freedom Fest started at dawn with the Masonic pancake breakfast, followed by a 5K race. From morning to dark the downtown was filled with games, booths, water slides, food and music. Mr. Cabbagehead and the Screaming Radishes provided music during the day and a city sponsored fireworks show capped off the evening.
Despite the heat, people filled the square all day. Doug Kinslow, Greenwood Parks director, praised the efforts of the city, Advertising & Promotion Commission, volunteers, organizations and businesses that donated to the Freedom Fest. Without these efforts the long-standing family event would not be possible, he said.
“I think it is a good way to utilize and spend community resources,” Kinslow said.
He added that the event allows families to enjoy the small town close community spirit. “Everyone seemed to be having a good time,” he added.
This year marked the 31st year for the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce Freedom Fest 5K Race, sponsored by Farmers Bank, Greenwood A&P Commission and Johnson Dermatology. More than 240 runners from Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas ran in the race this year. According to Randy Davis, race coordinator, about 75% of the runners come from outside Greenwood.
Cameron Efurd, from Rogers Ark., placed first overall with a time of 16:17. His twin sister, Cortney Efurd won the women’s division with a time of 20:36.
