Democrat File Photo The Villa Roma Resort Hotel, nestled in the hills between Jeffersonville and Callicoon, will have many prime viewing spots for its Independence Day fireworks show. Try out County Route 164, Villa Roma Road, Beechwoods Road, Reum Road, Bauernfeind Road, Radio Tower Road, Katz Road, Tonjes Road or Polster Road.

County ready to celebrate July 4

By Frank Rizzo
SULLIVAN COUNTY — July 2, 2010 — Fireworks and the Fourth of July. How could they not go together? The tradition of celebrating our Declaration of Independence from England by displays of pyrotechnics goes back to a letter John Adams wrote to his wife Abigail after the Continental Congress approved the Declaration.
“[The day] ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more,” Adams wrote.
There’ll be no shortage of pomp, parades and ceremony this weekend around the county. Here’s a roundup of what to expect. See also our “What’s Ahead” pages (10-11 A) for more activities. Info on the Villa Roma fireworks may be found in the cutline in photo at left.
Bethel Woods
Where: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, Hurd Rd., Bethel
When: Saturday, July 3 at 8 p.m.
What: The New York Philharmonic and fireworks
The Lowdown: The Philharmonic, led by Bramwell Tovey, conductor, opened Bethel Woods in 2006 and its appearance has become a yearly tradition. Bethel Woods has touted its special family ticket prices for this event, with kids 12 and under free on the Lawn.
The PR: “The annual fireworks display is legendary; coupled with incredibly affordable tickets, entertainment by one of the oldest and most respected orchestras in the world, and the unparalleled beauty of the grounds and you have the perfect setting to celebrate the July holiday together. Pack the picnic basket and the kids into the car and head over to Bethel Woods on Saturday, July 3rd to celebrate in style!”
Info: Tickets on sale at www.BethelWoodsCenter.org, the Bethel Woods Box Office, Ticketmaster, or by phone 1-800-745-3000.
Monticello Casino
Where: Monticello Casino & Raceway, Route 17B, Monticello
When: Saturday, July 3
What: Live harness racing and fireworks afterward
The Lowdown: On Saturday, July 3, the Raceway will stage its 41st annual Fireworks Extravaganza after the races. That evening post time will be at 7:30 p.m. – the only such post time on a Saturday this summer.
The PR: “The fireworks will be presented approximately 15 minutes after the racing program ends on Saturday night, July 3,” said Shawn Wiles, the Raceway’s assistant general manager. “And since there is free admission to the entire facility it’s a great opportunity to come and see the fireworks close-up on the track’s apron, where the best view is afforded.”
Town of Bethel
Where: Kauneonga Lake
When: Monday, July 5 at dusk
What: Annual Town of Bethel Fireworks Display
The Lowdown: Pre-recorded patriotic music by Ron Borella starts at 6 p.m. at the Kauneonga Lake Community Park on Lake Street and Route 55. Fireworks sponsored by the Town of Bethel.
The PR: “We expect high traffic volume all afternoon and into the evening. Please be patient, drive and park carefully! Enjoy Your Day!”
Narrowsburg
Where: Hamlet of Narrowsburg
When: Sunday, July 4
What: Narrowsburg 4th of July sponsored by the Narrowsburg Chamber of Commerce, ending with fireworks at dusk
The Lowdown: The games and activities begin at 1 p.m. Annual parade starts at 3 p.m., organized by the Narrowsburg Fire Department, which will also host a chicken barbecue from 4-6 p.m. at the Firehouse. Children’s games, Antique and Classic Car Show, Narrowsburg Country Market, live music all day at various locations around town.
The PR: “The day culminates with the area’s greatest fireworks display, beginning at dusk. Activities are supported by volunteer effort and contributions. Volunteers are still needed. Call Joanne at 292-8286 or narrowsburgcountrymarket@yahoo.com.”