SHAMOKIN - In showing their pride for America and the people that serve our country, members of Citizens for a Better Community hope that this year's celebration will top last year's inaugural success.
The Fourth of July celebration weekend will feature a competition of skill and logic, a car cruise and a spectacular fireworks display that has become a staple in the area.
The CBC celebration begins at 9 a.m. Saturday with the "The Amazing Coal Cracker Race," designed by former CBS reality show competitor Peach Krebs.
The race will send competitors running through the Shamokin-Coal Township area, looking for clues at businesses and landmarks.
Krebs said this year's race will focus more on the challenging roadblocks and detours, rather than the actual distance running of the race. The winning team will receive a $500 cash prize, courtesy of Peach and Company Salon, Shamokin. As of Tuesday evening, nine teams had signed up to participate, but Krebs said that 10 teams are needed by today in order to run the race. A maximum of 20 teams can participate.
At noon, the "Cruise for Heroes" will take place starting at The Trakks, Kulpmont, and winding through Strong, Natalie, Bear Gap, Elysburg, Paxinos, and Coal Township before vehicles park on display on Independence Street, in Shamokin, from 1 to 4 p.m.
Those taking part in the cruise are asked to bring a non-perishable food item to be donated to the Manna for the Many food pantry.
Organizers are asking those who have military appartus and vehicles as well as local fire engines available to come and take part in the cruise, or put them on display.
Those along the cruise route are asked to wear clothing in support of the military branches and wave American flags.
Food and refreshments, along with free gifts from the American Legion Auxiliary and a number of vendors and crafters will be available downtown. There will also be a special Chinese auction with gifts for car enthusiasts.
Among the items up for grabs in the auction include two Bistro Club tickets with a pit pass for the Pennsylvania 500 on Aug. 7 at Pocono Raceway, a car care kit from AutoZone, a socket wrench kit and bits from Advanced Auto Parts, gift certificate for a free tire alignment at Independence Street Sunoco, certificates for a free state inspection and a free oil change and much more.
All proceeds from the race and downtown activities will be donated to Cpl. David A. Noblit Jr., of Herndon, a U.S. Marine who lost his legs in a IED blast in Afghanistan in October.
CBC will be holding roadside collections Sunday in preparation for the annual city fireworks display, scheduled for dusk by Citizens Fireworks Inc. The donations collected Sunday will go to benefit the 2012 display. This year's 20-to-25 minute display is paid in full.