Fourth of July is just around the corner, and groups across the county are preparing to help area residents celebrate.

     To kick off the celebration, Easthaven Baptist Church will be having a picnic and firework show Sunday night beginning at 5. Hampton Sims, Easthaven children and families’ pastor, said entertainment will include inflatables, an illusionist, the Mississippi Wind Symphony, a quartet and guest speaker Philip Randolph Hamilton, of Mt. Wade Baptist Church.

     Sims said concessions will also be available for purchase from Broma’s, Garlee Pittman Snow Cones and Mississippi Ice Cream Factor.

     Fireworks will begin at dark. Sims said usually this means between 8:45 and 9 p.m.

     “We’ve enjoyed hosting it every year,” Sims said.

     He said the event helps area families celebrate their freedom in the United States.

     On Thursday, July 4, the Brookhaven Tea Party will host a patriotic event at Lake Lincoln State Park from noon to 2 p.m. Kendall Boutwell, the coordinator, said events will include a reading of the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights.

     “We’re just trying to bring liberty-minded people together,” he said.

     Boutwell said the day will mostly center around discussing important issues citizens of the United States are being faced with. He encourages everyone to bring his or her own chair, drinks and snacks. For more information about this event, contact Boutwell at 601-757-5523.

     Also, on Thursday, Mallalieu Baptist Church will hold a barbecue at 7 p.m. Sheila Byers said several church members will be barbecuing and others will bring a variety of food. Byers said anyone is welcome to come.

     For those celebrating at home, area officials urge safety.

     Brookhaven Police Chief Pap Henderson said residents within the city limits should not shoot fireworks.

     “It is illegal to shoot fireworks in the city,” he said. “It’s very dangerous in a way, for kids and such.”

     Henderson said some organizations, such as churches, have gone to the board of aldermen to get special permission to shoot fireworks this Fourth of July. Henderson said if the police department catches anyone shooting fireworks, they will take the appropriate action.

     However, Henderson added, “I’ll say this because I’m a human – be very careful shooting fireworks here during any time.”

     Lincoln County Sheriff Steve Rushing said fireworks are allowed in the county, but he urges everyone to remain safe. He said it is important to pay attention to the location because some areas may be dry, increasing possibility of fire.

     Rushing also urges safety when children are involved.

     “Be careful with fireworks, especially with kids,” he said. “Make sure they’re supervised.”

     Fourth of July is a chance to celebrate our country and freedom. Remember to stay safe this Independence Day.