Published: July 16, 2008 03:09 pm            

July 4th events are a big success

Dear Editor:

The July 4th week and weekend always provide locals and visitors with plenty of opportunities for fun. Between the carnival, live music, classic cars and other festivities in downtown Stearns, coupled with the July 4th fireworks display, there is always something to do. This year however included even more activity, with the introduction of two new events to the county.

The Liberation of St Jacques, a World War II re-enactment event held at Barthell Coal Mining Camp, brought re-enactors and spectators from as far away as Florida to enjoy the history, the excitement, and the atmosphere of another era. Special thanks to Dave Nutter who worked so hard to organize and plan this event and to everyone at Barthell for their hard work and dedication. This was a great first year event that I am sure will grow in the future.

Cumberland Safari’s Monster Truck event at the old Pine Knot Raceway was another first time event, that drew a crowd which has been estimated at between 4,000 and 5,000 people. For a first time event, and with so many other activities that weekend in this area, this is a huge beginning to something I feel will continue to draw crowds for what will likely become weekly events at the raceway.

I also want to thank and commend all who worked so hard on the other local events over the July 4th weekend, including the McCreary County Museum events, the car show in Stearns, Coal Miner’s Jamboree, Big South Fork Scenic Railway and others.

Let us not forget that all of these events, whether they draw 5000 people or 50 people, are helping support our local economy. By estimates compiled through our local tourism office, our lodging properties were about 80 percent full July 4th weekend. This is money in our economy. These visitors ate in our restaurants. This is money in our economy. They bought items from our local stores and shops, purchased gas locally, and spent money at our local attractions. This is all money in our economy.

So, if anyone ever says that tourism and events have no, or little, impact on our local economy, you can tell them it is money in our economy.

Find out more about McCreary County Tourism or local festivals and events by logging onto www.kyvacations.com or by calling 606-376-3008.



Adam Phillips

McCreary County Tourism

& Community Events Coordinator

Whitley City, KY 42653

        

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