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2/ TheBucknerClarion.com June 25, 2015 Heidi Koger Proofreader Morgan Graning Staff Writer Tempest Wright Contributing Writer Photography & Video Marjorie Langas Graphic Support Randy Leiker IT Support Tonia Wright Publisher, Editor-in-Chief Tell us how we're doing online or on Facebook. The Buckner Clarion is published by Grace Advertising & Consulting, Inc. 325 Broadway Lexington, MO 64067 660.259.3700 or 866.824.1020 (press 0) TheBucknerClarion.com is the online arm of this print publication. A special thank you to our advertisers and sponsors in this issue: Cathy Breshears City of Buckner The Firm Insurance Group, Inc. Grace Advertising & Consulting, Inc. Red Cross Pharmacy Fireworks in the Park Buckner Celebrates 'Fireworks in the Park' on June 27 It's flashes of red, white and blue in the sky that bring the citizens of Buckner together every year for "Fireworks in the Park," in celebration of the Fourth of July. Fireworks in the Park has been a tradition for a number of years, making it one of the biggest events Burns-Heisler Park hosts. Many families make it part of their annual Fourth of July festivities. On June 27, families from all over town will be parking their cars ready to watch the big show. Trina McAbee will be there like she has years before. "I have taken my kids to see the fireworks since they were young. Now that they are grown and have their own kids who are old enough to realize what is happening, I can't wait to see how my grandchildren react. Going to Fireworks in the Park has become a nice tradition my whole family can partake in," she said. There are a number of activities both adults and children can enjoy before the fireworks start. Children gather in the park to play, while parents walk the craft booths. In previous years, there has been live music, games, food, bounce houses and even a car show. "Every year, they seem to top it off from the last," McAbee said. James Stephens, a resident of Buckner since 2002, likes to walk around to see who he knows. "Everyone from town is there. I let my kids go find their friends, while I find mine. It's fun to find familiar faces I haven't seen in a while. I always run into someone I know, so it's great to catch up and see what everyone has been doing," Stephens said. Once the sun sets, the fireworks start. Gradually, multiple fireworks go off at once creating a burst of colors that somehow blend well together. "I am always tricked into thinking multiple fireworks means the finale," said Tassie Shaileen. "I look forward to seeing the finale every year. They always come up with something so unique. Once they go off, you can hear the whole crowd cheer. It's a fun experience." The show is open to anyone, including Independence residents. Amanda Klotz grew up in Buckner but moved to Independence after high school graduation. That has not stopped her from joining her hometown to celebrate. She makes the drive every year. "I remember one year I thought I had missed the show. I was driving down 24 Highway and noticed they were still being shot off. So I pulled over to the side of the road by the Shell gas station and just sat in my car listening to music and watching the fireworks." Klotz was surprised that she could see the fireworks from the highway. The City of Buckner invites everyone to Fireworks in the Park that kicks off at 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 27, and lasts through 10 p.m.

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