Sewanee Fourth of July 2016 Events

This year’s Fourth of July celebration in Sewanee will include some of the community’s favorite events.

What Are You Going to Wear?
The Fourth of July Panhandlers will be selling various patriotic merchandise and this year’s T-shirts ($15) in front of the bookstore today (Friday), July 1, and  Saturday, July 2 from 9 a.m. to noon. They will also be at the Street Dance on Sunday, July 3 and at the Arts & Crafts Fair on Monday, July 4. Contact Shelley Cammack at 598-5858 for more information.

Street Dance Begins the Celebration
The celebration will begin on Sunday, July 3, with the Street Dance at the Sewanee Market at 8 p.m. featuring Last Rebel. The rain location will be in Cravens Hall.

44th Annual Flag Raising
Fourth of July events begin at 8 a.m. with the 44th Annual Flag Raising at Juhan Bridge in Abbo’s Alley. Please use the entrance at Florida Avenue. The Sewanee Summer Music Festival’s brass quintet will perform, and Boy Scout Troop 14 will raise the flag. Afterward, enjoy a potluck breakfast; Friends of Abbo’s Alley provides coffee and juice. For more information or to volunteer, call Margaret Beaumont Zucker at 598-5214.

39th Annual Pub Run
The Monteagle Sunday School Assembly is hosting their 39th Annual Pub Run at 8 a.m. Runners will meet at the MSSA Front Gate and run to Shenanigan’s (6.4 miles) on the Mountain Goat Trail. Walkers may start at Dollar General. The fee for the run is $15.

Cake Contest
The Fourth of July Cake Contest registration is 9–9:45 a.m. at Sewanee Elementary. There will be a youth level (age 12 years and under) and an adult level. Prizes will be awarded for the Best Tasting, Best Decorated and Best Representation of the Theme. In addition, the winner of the Best All-Around Cake gets $100 cash, courtesy of IvyWild. Contact Jennifer Bachman at 598-9272 for more information.
The winners of the Cake Decorating Contest will be announced at noon at Sewanee Elementary.
Following the awards presentation, the community is invited to view and sample the cakes. The bluegrass band Hill, Hood and the Yellow Dandies will play at noon in front of Sewanee Elementary.

Arts and Crafts Fair
The Arts and Crafts Fair will begin at 9 a.m. in Shoup Park. For more information or to sign up as a vendor, contact Bracie Parker at 691-4791.

Mutt Show
Enter your favorite pooch in the 2016 Fourth of July Mutt Show! All dogs are welcome to compete—no talent necessary. Registration for the Mutt Show will take place 9–9:45 a.m. in Manigault Park. The show begins at 10 a.m. Trophies will be awarded for these canine categories: Best Dressed; Owner/Dog Look-Alike; Most Mysterious Heritage; Best Trick; and Judges’ Choice. Entrants may register to compete in two categories. There will also be an award for the Best Joke. The registration fee is $5 per category, and a portion of the proceeds will go to Animal Harbor. Rain location is the Equestrian Center.

“No Dog Left Behind”
Due to a surplus of trophies (and the desire to have back a room in the basement) every Dog Show Applicant will receive a trophy this year in addition to the winners of the usual Dog Show Award categories. So please, enter your “Best Friend” in this year’s Sewanee Fourth of July Mutt Show!

All-American Food
Vendors along University Avenue will begin selling food and drinks starting at 10 a.m.

Children’s Games
Children’s games, the fortune teller and face painting will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the American Legion Hall.

Pie Eating Contest
The third annual Pie Eating Contest will be at 11:30 a.m. in Guerry Garth. This year, we will have a children’s pie eating contest (ages 12 and under) from 11:30 a.m. to noon and the adult (ages 13 and above) contest will be at noon–12:30 p.m. A clean up area will be provided. Sign up early (the fee is $5) as there are a limited number of spaces. For more information call Gary Sturgis at 598-5324 or 636-5294.

Sewanee Ringers and Carillon Recital
At noon, the Sewanee Ringers will perform the Bentley Bells Change Ringing at Breslin Tower. John Bordley and Ray Gotko will perform a Carillon Recital at 1 p.m. Bring a chair to All Saints’ Chapel to enjoy the music.

Fourth of July Parade
The theme for this year’s Fourth of July celebration is “30 Years of Sewanee 4th of July Celebrations.” The Sewanee Fourth of July parade will begin at 2 p.m. starting at the Sewanee Market and will travel through town. All sirens will be turned off at the Kirby-Smith monument. There will be barbecue following the parade in Angel Park.

Air Show
Weather permitting, the Air Show will take place at 3:30 p.m. at the Sewanee airport. Airplane rides will be available until 6 p.m., weather permitting.
Plane rides for adults and children are $15 per person. Parents must be present to give written permission for children ages 16 and under.

More Musical Events
The Sewanee Summer Music Festival students will perform a free Patriotic Celebration at 7 p.m. in Guerry Auditorium featuring SSMF students and the faculty brass quintet.
At Lake Cheston, bring your lawn chair or blanket and the whole family to enjoy music from Sewanee’s own Broad Mountain Band at 7 p.m.

Fireworks Show
After dark, the Fireworks Show will be at Lake Cheston. There will be a suggested donation of $1 to contribute to next year’s fireworks.
Parking at the Lake will be limited to handicapped and special needs only. Parking is even more limited due to farm renovations, so Chief Marie Eldridge asks that if you need a handicap or special need parking pass for the fireworks show, please go by the Sewanee Police Station. Simply go to the window at the station, give your name, and you will be given a pass. If you have a permanent handicap tag you will not need a temporary one.

Mike Maxon Is the Parade Grand Marshal

Parade Entries Accepted until June 30
This year’s parade grand marshal honor goes to Mike Maxon for his outstanding contributions to the community. He retired as the principal at Sewanee Elementary School in 2015 aft er a 42-year career of tireless dedication to our children and their education.
As SES principal, he strived to develop important character traits in each of the school’s children, including honesty, helpfulness, and empathy. He strongly believes that all children can learn and he spread that mantra throughout the school in a nurturing, encouraging way. The Fourth of July Committee has chosen to honor Mike for his commitment and enthusiasm as principal for so many years by making him the grand marshal.
Th e theme for this year’s Fourth of July celebration is “30 Years of Sewanee 4th of July Celebrations.” Parade entries are now being accepted by contacting Louise Irwin at 598-5864. Provide a contact person and contact information for the entry, type of entry and approximate length of the entry. Please enter by Thursday, June 30.
The Fourth of July Panhandlers will be selling various patriotic merchandise and this year’s T-shirts ($15) in front of the bookstore Thursday, June 30 through Saturday, July 2 from 9 a.m. to noon. They will also be at the Street Dance on Sunday, July 3 and at the Arts & Craft s Fair on Monday, July 4. Contact Shelley Cammack at 598-5858 for more information.
The planning committee will be meeting on Mondays through June 27 at 5 p.m. at the Sewanee Senior Citizens Center. Everyone in the community is invited to attend. See page 12 for more events.

Fourth of July Parade Needs You

The Fourth of July Committee is seeking a person to plan and prepare for the well-loved parade. This person should be able to coordinate the line-up of parade entries to ensure the success and safety of the parade. Help will be provided by the Fourth of July Committee. Contact Jade McBee Barry at <jademcbee@gmail.com> or Erin Kunz at <erinkunz@icloud.com> to volunteer.
The theme for this year’s Fourth of July celebration is “30 years of Sewanee 4th of July Celebrations.” Parade entries are now being accepted by contacting Erin Kunz at <erinkunz@icloud.com>. Provide a contact person and contact information for the entry, type of entry and approximate length of the entry. Please enter by Thursday, June 30.
T-shirts are available to preorder for $18 each. Contact Jade McBee Barry at <jademcbee@gmail.com> to place your order with the number of shirts and sizes.
The planning committee will be meeting on Mondays through June 27 at 5 p.m. at the Sewanee Senior Citizens Center. Everyone in the community is invited to attend.

Fourth of July Needs You

The Fourth of July Committee is seeking a person or organization to host the Fourth of July children’s games. This is a great opportunity to be a part of all that’s best in our wonderful village. Games and activities are provided—someone community-minded needs to oversee them. Lots of help will be provided to the volunteer(s). Call Gary Sturgis at 598-5324 or 636-5294.
T-shirts are available to preorder for $18 each. Contact Jade McBee Barry at <jademcbee@gmail.com> with the number of shirts and sizes to place your order.”
The planning committee will be meeting on Mondays June 6–27 at 5 p.m. at the Sewanee Senior Citizens Center. Everyone in the community is invited to attend.

Fourth of July Planning Committee

The Fourth of July Planning Committee has begun meeting in preparation for this summer’s big events.
There are many opportunities to get involved and make this year’s Fourth of July a fabulous celebration. The planning committee welcomes new members.
The next meeting is at 5 p.m., Monday, May 16, at the Senior Center.
Volunteers are needed to lead the children’s games, the dunking booth, and to help with the dog show.
For more information or to offer to help, email Jade Barry at <jademcbee@gmail.com>.

Fourth of July Planning Meeting

The Fourth of July Planning Committee has begun meeting in preparation for this summer’s big events. This year’s theme will be “Sewanee Votes: Let Freedom Ring.”
There are many opportunities to get involved and make this year’s Fourth a fabulous celebration. The planning committee welcomes new members. They meet at 5 p.m. at the Senior Center. The next meeting will be on Monday, April 18.
Volunteers are needed to lead in organizing the parade, the children’s games and the dunking booth.
This is a great way to make new friends, give back to the community and help with this great Sewanee tradition. For more information or to offer to help, email Jade Barry at <jade​mcbee@gmail.com>.

“Sewanee Votes: Let Freedom Ring” This Year’s Fourth Theme

The Fourth of July Planning Committee has begun meeting in preparation for this summer’s big events. This year’s theme will be “Sewanee Votes: Let Freedom Ring.” 

There are many opportunities to get involved and make this year’s Fourth a fabulous celebration. The planning committee welcomes new members; they meet at 5 p.m. at the Senior Center. The next meeting will be on April 18.

Volunteers are needed to lead organizing of the parade, for the children’s games and for the dunking booth. 

This is a great way to make new friends, give back to the community and help with this great Sewanee tradition. For more information or to offer to help, email Jade Barry at <jade​mcbee@gmail.com>.

Organizers of the Street Dance on July 3 are looking for a band that would be interested in playing for the event. For more information or to recommend a band, contact Valerie Parker by email to < vennyleal_21@hotmail.com> or call (931) 636-5337. Entries and suggestions will be accepted until March 11.

The Cat’s Meow: A Fresh Perspective on the Cat Show

by Creative Nonfiction Students of the Sewanee Young Writers’ Conference

If you were sprinting in the rain across the University of the South’s campus in search of the Fourth of July cat show, you just might have missed it. It was a small tent with only a handful of felines.

This year, the contributors to the “Cat’s Meow” cat show were Shelley  Cammack and Joan Hurst. Shelley was the host of the show, as well as the owner of four of the six participants: Diamond, Moses, Pearl, and Callie. Joan, who was also one of the judges, brought Lily, only one of her six cats, to the show. 

These five cats were truly experts at show etiquitte, unflinching as the little hands of children reached through the bars of the cats’ cages to pet and prod them. Though loving owners brought these first few competitors, the sixth and final participant brought himself.

Small and grey, this wandering tabby captured the attention of the whole show as soon as he made his presence known by following a man walking his dogs. Shelley demonstrated how the six-week-old kitten, “just skin and bones,” was small enough to fit in someone’s cupped hands. 

Shelley and Joan were hesitant to show favor to their own cats, as they were the only two owners in the cat show. The sharp little drifter made their jobs far easier. He proved his worth when he demonstrated his natural intuition and intelligence by knowing how to be in the right place at the right time. In fact, he walked away with every single prize the show offered: smallest cat, largest cat, longest hair, most unusual markings, best owner/cat look-alike and best-decorated cat carrier. 

Shelley named the little creature Trump, “after [presidential candidate] Donald” she said, because “He showed up, entered himself into the competition and won.”

However, this cat won more than titles. John Bordley and Carolyn Fitz adopted the stray for their granddaughter Vie Virkhaus. The young girl preferred the name Sandals, so his official name became Sandals Trump. Everyone in the crowd was happy to see him win something even greater than the blue ribbon: a loving home.

This story was written by Sylvia Bosco, Molly-McGill Carter, Julian Chapin, Marc deFontnouvelle, Boe Farmer, Naomi Graver, Norah Madden-Lunsford, Katha Sikka, Lily Snider and Sarah Yang for their creative nonfiction class taught by Marjorie Gellhorn Sa’adah.

The History of the Famous Sewanee Dog Show

 by Matt Petrilla, M.D., Special to the Messenger

On July 1, 1986, Jeanette Hamilton, who was then the crotchety chief of the Sewanee Hospital laboratory, was sitting in the hospital cafeteria, along with other hospital staff, looking out its large glass window. 

“We need to have something for these old folks to celebrate the Fourth of July,” she declared. (At that time the hospital served as a part-time nursing home facility). “I’ve got it! Let’s have a Kids’ Dog Show out here on the grass!” You two new docs—put it together! (Diane Petrilla and I had just arrived on the Mountain three weeks earlier and were “fresh meat,” as Jeanette saw us). And the rest is history.

With two days to advertise and prepare, the first Sewanee Mutt Show consisted of a wooden show ring and an entrance banner (still used to this day). The awards were a squeaky toy, box of dog treats and a leather chew bone. Seven dogs were entered, and three kids went home squealing in delight at their achievement. Hamilton’s post-show evaluation was ruthless. “Not enough kids!” “Terrible prizes!” “That stunk!”

The second year had 15 hopeful kids and dogs, three official-looking generic ribbons for awards and boxes of doughnuts. (And, of course, those copycats started the cat show next door!) Post-show critique by Hamilton was, again, embarrassing. “Terrible turnout!!” “Doughnuts?! Who gives doughnuts as dog show awards?!” she barked.

For the third Sewanee Mutt Show, Sewanee resident jocks were asked to donate their old, dusty trophies stored in attics and basements to be refurbished. Community response was tremendous, and at least 100 trophies dating back to 1930 were converted to dog trophies for the next years, as continues to this day. Twenty dogs entered the third year, and the new prizes were a big hit, as grinning children walked off with trophies taller than they were. Finally, post-show evaluation got a “Not bad”from Hamilton. “But don’t slack off next year—or else!” she cautioned.

Over the years, changes were made to be politically correct, per the adults. The “Mutt” Show was changed to the “Dog” Show. The first categories were: Biggest Dog, Smallest, Ugliest, Best Trick, Owner-Dog Look-alike. 

But Ugly, Biggest and Smallest were felt to be discriminatory and thrown out. The venue was moved to the University football field, then to the site in Manigault Park on University Avenue used today. In 2005, cumbersome paper sign-in sheets were replaced with complex computer sign in, as we “progressed.” Adults got a piece of the action as judges sometimes awarded prizes to the adults’ dogs, but they were redirected to the origins of the show as an event for children. 

The emcee job was alternated until Lizzie Clark Duncan took the microphone. The crowds love Lizzie so much that she is now snagged to do the announcing as often as possible. 

“Best Dog Joke” was added to the show to fill in time as the judges made their decisions. Benches were added to accommodate the growing crowds of people and the ring made bigger to accommodate the great number of dogs participating. 

The highest number of entrants was 70 dogs in 1995, and someone (unofficially) counted 400 onlookers one year. The show was never canceled for rain until the first time in 2013, with organizers facing severe criticism encountered for “wimping out.” [Rain plans for this year’s celebration can be found on page 11.]

The show began raising money a few years ago, with donations going to Animal Harbor for proper care of homeless dogs.

Thank you to Jeanette Hamilton for the original idea and early “direction,” and thank you to the many people over the years that made the Sewanee Dog Show a part of Sewanee’s fantastic Fourth of July celebration.

Boy Named Banjo Begins Weekend Music

Fresh from the stage at Bonnaroo, Boy Named Banjo will perform at 6 p.m., today (Friday), July 3, at the Angel Park Pavilion in downtown Sewanee; if it rains, the concert will move next door to the American Legion Hall. 

This performance marks the band’s third year playing at the Friday Nights in the Park, hosted by the Sewanee Business Alliance. Band members Barton Davies and William Reames are Sewanee students; they are joined on stage by Will Logan, Sam McCullough and Abe Scott.

University Avenue will be closed at 4:30 p.m. so guests can safely enjoy all the activities, including local vendors offering food and drink. 

The annual Fourth of July-eve Street Dance will begin at 8 p.m., at the Sewanee Market. This year’s band is Last Rebel, comprised of Neal Parson (lead vocals), Mike Norman (bass), Tony Green (lead guitar) and David Green (drums). In case of rain, the Street Dance will move to Cravens Hall.

Blount Tapped as Parade Grand Marshal :: Fourth of July Parade Still Accepting Entries

The Fourth of July planning committee is pleased to announce that the 2015 Grand Marshal is Steve Blount. 

Blount was selected from a large, talented pool of nominees. “It is encouraging that there are so many people in our community who exemplify servant-leadership every day,” said Erin Kunz, one of the parade organizers. 

He is the senior assistant district attorney for the 12th Judicial District based in Franklin County and has served in this position for 25 years.

Blount has been instrumental in the 12th Judicial District Drug Court since its inception in 2005. He serves as chairman of the Drug Court Team and as vice president of the 12th Judicial District Drug Court Foundation.

Organizers hope to have as many parade entries as possible. Gather up family, friends and coworkers, and join in. All entries are welcome: musical, clowns, bicycles, horses, floats, baton twirlers, beauty pageant winners or cars. This year’s parade will travel downhill from Hall Street to the Sewanee Market; it will begin at 2 p.m. on July 4. Parade entries must be made by June 30.

Parade Entry Sign-Up for Fourth of July

Sewanee Purple Mountain Majesty on the Fourth of July needs your participation. Organizers hope to have as many parade entries as possible. Gather up your family, friends and coworkers and join in! This year’s parade will travel downhill from Hall Street to the Sewanee Market at 2 p.m. on July 4. 

Parade entries must be made by June 30. To enter the parade email Heather Walsh at 

<sewanee4thofjulyparade@gmail.com> or call (678) 617-0505.

T-shirts with this year’s logo and theme are available to pre-order ($15) by contacting Jade McBee by email, <jademcbee@gmail.com>.

Majestic Fourth of July Plans Taking Shape

Sewanee’s Fourth of July celebration is approaching fast! The theme for this year’s celebration is Sewanee Purple Mountain Majesty.

T-shirts with this year’s logo and theme are available to pre-order ($15) by contacting Jade McBee by email, <jademcbee@gmail.com>.

Organizers hope to have as many parade entries as possible. Gather up your family, friends and coworkers and join in! All entries are welcome: musical, clowns, bicycles, horses, floats, baton twirlers, beauty pageant winners or cars. This year’s parade will travel downhill from Hall Street to the Sewanee Market; it will begin at 2 p.m. on July 4. Parade entries must be made by June 30.

There will be trophies awarded in the following categories: best float (an entry is considered a float if it consists of a flatbed trailer being pulled by a vehicle), best decorated vehicle and best horse-drawn entry. Ribbons will be given for best decorated bicycle. Judging for the entries will begin at 1 p.m. The lineup location is at the parking lot behind Benedict Hall. 

The Sewanee Chorale will sing wonderful patriotic music during the Sewanee “Purple Mountain Majesty” Fourth of July celebration and is looking for more singers to participate. Their goal is to have 100 voices from our community be part of the event.

Musical director Gary Sturgis said, “You do not have to read music—just come and sing the melody!”

They will rehearse at 7 p.m., on Monday, June 22, and Monday, June 29, in Hargrove Auditorium (also known as the Pit) in Hamilton Hall. For more information contact Sturgis at (931) 636-5294.

A few reminders about the parade. If you will be throwing candy, please be sure to throw it as close to the curb as you can. We want to keep our little ones as safe as possible by keeping them from running out into the road. Also, if you have a siren, horn or other type of loud noise, please do not turn it on until you reach the Kirby-Smith Monument. There are those who do not like to hear the sirens and they will be seated at or near the hospital. If you will be riding a motorcycle or four-wheeler, please wear a helmet. Due to insurance precautions, participants in the parade will need to sign a release form before the parade begins. 

To enter the parade email Heather Walsh at <sewanee4thofjulyparade@gmail.com> or call (678) 617-0505.

Who Should Lead This Year’s Parade?

The Sewanee Fourth of July Committee is seeking nominations for the grand marshal of this year’s Fourth of July parade. 

If you would like to nominate someone, please send their name, contact information (with their permission) and the reasons you think they should be grand marshal. 

This year’s theme is “Sewanee Purple Mountain Majesty.” Please send your suggestion by June 1 to Jade Barry at<jademcbee@gmail.com>.

The committee is also looking for volunteers. If you are interested in helping with the parade, in being on the planning committee or would like to help in any other way, please contact Barry or attend the next meeting. 

The planning committee will meet at 5 p.m., each Tuesday from now until July 4. The next meeting will be on May 26 in the Sewanee Senior Center.

This is a great way to make new friends, give back to the community and help with this great Sewanee tradition.

Fourth of July 2015 “Sewanee Purple Mountain Majesty”

It’s time to start thinking about Sewanee’s Fourth of July celebration. This year’s theme is “Sewanee Purple Mountain Majesty.” 

The planning committee is accepting nominations for grand marshal of the parade. The person nominated should exhibit community involvement and be someone who has made a significant contribution to our life together. Please send the name and a brief description of why you are nominating this person by June 1 to Jade Barry at <jademcbee@gmail.com>. 

It takes many volunteers to make Sewanee’s Fourth of July events happen. Help is needed with the parade, with organizing the events of the day and by serving on the planning committee. If you are interested in helping, contact Barry or attend the next committee meeting. The planning committee will be meeting from now until the big day. Meetings are at 5 p.m., Tuesdays, at the Sewanee Senior Center, on the following dates: May 12, May 26, June 2, June 9, June 16, June 23, June 30 and July 1.

Fourth of July Photos Available Online

Dozens of photographs from Sewanee's Fourth of July celebration are now online at http://themountainnow.com/Photos/.

Sewanee Summer Music Festival Events

Sewanee Summer Music Festival has a number of events in the coming week that will be of interest to community members and music lovers.

At 4 p.m., on Saturday, June 28, there will be a student chamber concert in Guerry Garth. At 7:30 p.m., the faculty artist series will continue in Guerry Auditorium.

The Cumberland Orchestra will have a concert at 2:30 p.m., Sunday, June 29. It will be followed by a concert by the Sewanee Symphony Orchestra at 3:30 p.m. Both events will be in Guerry Auditorium.

Members of the SSMF will perform at the Monteagle Sunday School Assembly at 8:15 p.m., Tuesday, July 1.

SSMF will be celebrating the Fourth of July with its annual Patriotic Celebration Concert at 7:30 p.m., Friday, July 4, in Guerry Auditorium. Coordinator and artist-faculty member Eric Bubaz is making preparations to craft a series of music that will appeal to a wide audience. 

“The program I’m choosing is mostly a traditional one,” said Bubaz. “It’s meaningful. It goes back to my childhood, and the pieces I connected to as a young person. I hope that it does the same for the audience at the Patriotic Concert… there are both familiar tunes and new surprises.”

The concert program will include selections such as “America the Beautiful,” “American Salute,” “1812 Overture” and “Lincoln Portrait,” among others. SSMF artist-faculty member Mark Babbitt will conduct the group. The Brass Ensemble will be playing at the flag raising ceremony in Abbo’s Alley at 8 a.m., followed by the SSMF Strolling Band as part of Sewanee’s Fourth of July Parade on University Avenue at 2 p.m.

“Razzle Dazzle” this Fourth of July

Plan to celebrate a “Razzle Dazzle Fourth of July” in Sewanee. The celebration will begin at 8 p.m., Thursday, July 3, when the Stagger Moon Band will play for the Street Dance at the Sewanee Market.

Fourth of July events begin at 8 a.m. at the 42nd Annual Flag Raising at Juhan Bridge in Abbo’s Alley. The Sewanee Summer Music Festival’s brass quintet will perform, and Scout Troop 114 will raise the flag. Afterward, enjoy a potluck breakfast; Friends of Abbo’s Alley provides coffee and juice. For more information or to volunteer, call Margaret Beaumont Zucker at 598-5214. The Arts and Crafts Fair will open at 9 a.m. in Shoup Park. 

The Fourth of July Cake Contest registration is 9–9:45 a.m., at the Blue House. There will be a youth level (age 12 years and under) and an adult level. Prizes will be awarded for best tasting, best decorated and best representation of the theme. In addition, a best of show award will win a $100 gift certificate and get to ride in the parade.

The “Cat’s Meow” Cat Show will begin at 9:15 a.m. in Manigualt Park. Vendors along University Avenue will begin selling food and drinks at 10 a.m.

The Fourth of July Mutt Show will be in Manigault Park. Registration begins at 9 a.m.; the show begins at 10 a.m. An entry form will be in next week’s Messenger. The Dunking Booth will open at 11 a.m. Children’s Games, the fortune teller and face painting will be 11 a.m.–1 p.m., at the American Legion Hall. 

The Sewanee Chorale, under the direction of Gary Sturgis, will offer a Fourth of July concert at 11:30 a.m., at the viewing stand in front of the University Bookstore. Winners of the Cake Contest will be announced at noon at the Blue House. 

Ray Gotko will perform a Carillon Recital at 1 p.m. Bring a chair to All Saints’ Chapel to enjoy the music. 

The second annual Fourth of July Pie-Eating Contest will be at 1 p.m., Friday, July 4, in Guerry Garth. Contestants will vie for $100 in cash, as well as gift certificates and other prizes. Sign up early (the fee is $5); there are a limited number of spaces. For more information call Ginny at 598-5205.

The Sewanee Fourth of July parade will begin at 2 p.m., starting at the Sewanee Market and ending at the hospital. Floats should be on Lake O’Donnell Road by 1 p.m., bicyclists should meet at 1:30 p.m. at Woody’s Bike Shop. For more info contact Heather Walsh at (678) 617-0505 or email <sewanee4thofjulyparade@gmail.com>. 

Weather permitting, the Air Show will take place at 3:30 pm. The Sewanee Summer Music Festival students and faculty will perform a Patriotic Celebration at 7 pm., in Guerry Auditorium, under the direction of Cesar Leal. At Lake Cheston, Jason & Michelle will perform at 7 p.m.

After dark, the Fireworks Show will be at Lake Cheston. Parking at the lake will be limited to handicapped and special needs only. A map of the activities and listing of events is also available at <TheMountainNow.com>.

Plan for a Razzle Dazzle Fourth of July

This year’s Fourth of July celebration in Sewanee, a “Razzle Dazzle Fourth,” will include some of the community’s favorite events.

The second annual Fourth of July Pie-Eating contest will be at 1 p.m., Friday, July 4, in Guerry Garth. Contestants will vie for $100 in cash, as well as gift certificates, services and other great prizes as they eat their way to pie nirvana. Sign up early, as there are a limited number of spaces. A small fee of $5 per contestant will be charged to cover costs. Sign up by calling Ginny at 598-5205 or show up before the contest.

Returning after its 2013 rain delay, the Fourth of July Mutt Show will be in Manigault Park. 

Registration begins at 9 a.m.; the show begins at 10 a.m. Lizzie Duncan will be back as the show’s emcee. All dogs are welcome to compete—no talent necessary. 

The categories for this year’s show have changed: best dressed, Razzle Dazzle doggie, owner/dog look-alike, best trick and judges’ choice. Entrants may register for one category or one category plus judges’ choice. An entry form will be in upcoming issues of the Messenger.

Dr. Matt Petrilla’s fabulous trophies will be awarded to winners. In case of rain this year, the Mutt Show will be held in the indoor riding arena at the Equestrian Center.

The Fourth of July Cake Contest will offer two levels of competition. There will be a youth level, to include all bakers 12 years and under, and an adult level to include all bakers age 13 years and older.

Within each level, a prize will be awarded in each of three categories: best tasting, best decorated and best representation of the theme, “Razzle Dazzle Fourth of July.”

In addition to the three categories, a grand prize ($100) will be awarded to the best all-around cake. The best all-around prize is offered by acclaimed IvyWild Restaurant owner and chef Keri Moser, who will present the prize at 12 p.m. The winner of the best all- around cake will also have the opportunity to wear the winner’s special hat and ride in the parade.

Winners of the best tasting, best decorated and best representation of theme categories in the youth competition will each receive $5 and a Blue Chair Café gift certificate for two ice cream cones.

Winners of the best tasting, best decorated and best representation of theme categories in the adult competition will each receive a $50 IvyWild gift certificate.

Cake registration and set-up will take place from 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. at the Blue House on University Avenue. Registration will close at 9:45 a.m., when the judging will begin. Winners will be announced at 12 p.m. Following the awards presentation, the community is invited to view and sample the cakes.

The contest is an annual event sponsored by the Sewanee Women’s Club with the generous co-sponsorship of IvyWild Restaurant and the Blue Chair Café and Tavern.

For more information call Flournoy Rogers at 598-0733 or Mandy Grubbs at (931) 691-4310.

People interested in being food vendors need to register by June 30. A limited number of spots are also available for Thursday night’s street dance festival downtown and at the Lake Cheston fireworks display Friday. All vendors must register to expedite proper placement along the parade route. Vendors not registered may not receive a placement area for either venue.

To register email <luwin@bell​south.net> with name, phone numbers, list of foods/drinks offered and email for the vendor distribution list that will provide more information. Because Sewanee is not incorporated, vendors are not required to have a business license.

Who Should Lead This Year’s Parade?

The Sewanee Fourth of July Committee is seeking nominations for the Grand Marshal of this year’s Fourth of July parade. 

If you would like to nominate someone, please send their name, contact information (with their permission) and the reasons you think they should be Grand Marshal. 

This year’s theme is “Razzle Dazzle Fourth of July.” Please send your suggestion to Jade Barry at<jademcbee@gmail.com> or to Bill Barton at <bill​barton1@bellsouth.net>.

The next Fourth of July planning committee meeting will be at 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, June 3, in the Sewanee Senior Center. Future meetings will be on June 10, June 17, June 24 and July 1. This is a great way to make new friends, give back to the community and help with this great Sewanee tradition.