Sizzling times set for holiday

A firecracker hot Fourth of July holiday should be in store Thursday when the Churchill County Parks and Recreation Department, Fallon Convention and Tourism Authority and Fallon Chamber of Commerce are combining to present a lineup of events to celebrate America’s 237th birthday.

The traditional downtown parade at 10 a.m. kicks off activities for all ages that include a baking competition, watermelon eating contest, live music, movie in the park, family picnic areas and the fireworks show from Rattlesnake Raceway at dusk.

One addition to the festivities is the Pioneer Days Festival hosted by, the Churchill County Museum.

“We’re really excited about all the people in this community are coming together to create a full day of activities,” said Natalie Parrish, Chamber of Commerce executive director.

The “Live Fallon” parade begins from Churchill County Middle School on the same route that has been used in years past. The route proceeds north on Taylor Street and finishes along Maine Street back to the middle school.

Preparation for the heat is advised, since temperatures are expected to rise near triple digits.

Churchill County Sheriff Ben Trotter expressed his desire for everyone to enjoy a safe holiday. At the same time, he emphasized the importance of fireworks restrictions.

“Due to the extreme heat and dry conditions coupled with the rash of various types of fires, the Churchill County Sheriff’s Office will have a zero-tolerance approach to illegal possession or use of fireworks this summer,” Trotter stated. “We want everyone to enjoy their July 4th and recommend the numerous sanctioned fireworks events available in Northern Nevada.”

Lisa Ross, public affairs specialist for the Bureau of Land Management, also noted fireworks are prohibited on public lands, including Sand Mountain.

The Nevada State Parks website reports the Lake Lahontan State Recreation Area’s Silver Springs and Fallon boat launch ramps are closed for the summer due to low water levels. Boaters are allowed to launch from shore at their own risk, due to rock and sand bar hazards. Extreme caution is advised for boats pulling skiers or traveling at high speeds.

Lahontan remains open for camping, swimming, canoeing or fishing.

Fire restrictions at Nevada State Parks are in effect: Campfires and stove fires are prohibited outside an established fireplace in a picnic area, campground or places of habitation (except for a portable stove using gas, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel); smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, building or area that has been cleared of flammable vegetation; operating vehicles or other motorized equipment off existing paved, gravel or dirt roads; operating motorized equipment in wildland areas without an axe, shovel and at least one gallon of water.

All city, county and federal government offices as well as banking institutions will be closed Thursday in observance of the holiday. The LVN office will also be closed on Thursday but will reopen on Friday.