Pride of Pike planned for 2016

Members of the Pike Parks and Recreation Authority are making preparations for the 2016 Pride of Pike Independence Day Celebration which is set for Saturday, July 2 at the recreation fields. ’We are really looking forward to another great event. It’s been since 2010 since we’ve hosted the Pride of Pike,’ said parks and recreation authority director Kevin Teate. ‘We are excited about bringing it back and we hope to make it bigger and better than ever. Hopefully it will be a great event for Pike County and the surrounding communities.’ Board members approved an agreement with Zambelli Fireworks Manufacturing Company and also approved the transfer of a $7,500 downpayment from the concession stand fund to pay half of the overall contract price at their Dec. 14 meeting. Additional payments will take care of the $15,000 total for the fireworks show to end the Pride of Pike event. ’We will be seeking sponsorships to help fund the event and we will be sending out information to potential vendors and sponsors after the start of the new year,’ said Teate. ’We are still putting all the details together but we are looking at having entertainment and children’s activities. The Independence Day parade is separate but we are hoping to tie the two in together.’Board members also:’¢ Selected and approved an agreement with Ken-Lawn Turf Management Company as a service provider of athletic lawn care services for a three year period beginning in 2016 and continuing through 2018. ’¢ Heard and approved Mark Hardison of Clifton, Lipford, Hardison and Parker LLC present the audit for fiscal year ending June 30, 2015. Annette White of The Financial Integrity Group was present as well.’¢ Heard a sports programs report and update.