AHOSKIE – Plans have been finalized for Ahoskie’s two-day tribute to America’s 228th birthday.

The town will host an Independence Celebration, an event chocked full of activities for all ages, beginning Saturday and lasting until Sunday night where the sky will light up with fireworks.

According to Ahoskie Town Councilman Ronald Gatling, who is coordinating the two-day festival, the event begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday with an opening ceremony on the grounds of Hertford County High School. Saturday’s schedule will last until 8 p.m.

On the agenda will be children’s rides and games, provided by Abron Amusements of Tarboro. Game tickets will be sold.

Several branches of our nation’s military – Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard and Marines – will be on hand with displays.

Gatling said that several local performers will join in on the fun, entertaining the crowd at various times throughout the event.

Meanwhile, those looking for a cool break from the outdoor fun are invited inside to the HCHS cafeteria where the Ahoskie Jaycees will host a Bingo game.

Athletic competition is also on tap. The Ahoskie Recreation Department will host a punt, pass and kick event for kids of all ages. HCHS coach Charles Simmons will coordinate a free throw and three-point shooting contest for all ages. Those interested in participating in these events are urged to sign-up at the Ahoskie Recreation Center.

Sunday will feature several main events. At 2 p.m., a special ceremony will be held for our brave men and women now serving in Iraq. Ninety minutes later, Isabelle the Clown will entertain the youth followed by a special performance by Tiny Miss North Carolina Angel, Morgan Paige Smith.

Smith, age 7 of Rocky Mount, earned her title last year where she was judged as the &uot;Most Overall Talented&uot; and the &uot;Overall Most Beautiful.&uot; She has made over 200 appearances at various events since that time, entertaining crowds from New Jersey to Florida with her enormous talents. To date, Morgan has raised over $1,700 for her favorite charity – the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Ahoskie’s Independence Day celebration will conclude Sunday night with a grand display of fireworks at Hertford County High School. That event is scheduled to begin around 9 p.m.

The grounds at the high school take on a patriotic flavor as Woodmen of the World have donated several American flags that will be on display.