Soddy-Daisy sets celebration in motion

The organization sponsoring the Fourth of July celebration in Soddy-Daisy on Wednesday is looking to hook a few catfish lovers.

In addition to the standard offerings residents have come to expect -- fireworks, car show, firemen's muster -- Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 942, is introducing a fish fry featuring filets of Brazilian striped catfish.

"We'll serve up a complete fish dinner in the air-conditioned community center," said Robert Cothran, chapter president. "It's fish with all the trimmings -- hushpuppies, french fries, coleslaw and baked beans (choice of two sides) and a drink -- for $7. We wanted to give people a place where they could sit down and eat."

"And it's air-conditioned," he repeated.

Dozens more vendors will have other concessions, including barbecue, pinto beans, hot dogs and hamburgers, he said. They'll be set up around the walking track at the park on the north end of the city across from Soddy Lake.

Events get under way with a car show from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. A portion of Dayton Pike between Durham Street and Depot Street will be blocked off starting at 6 a.m. to accommodate the expected 300 classic cars, Cothran said.

Bands will play country, rock, gospel and bluegrass music throughout the day.

The firemen's muster, a fun competition among a half-dozen local squads, will start at 10 a.m.

A children's zone will have inflatables and other activities, and the park already has a playground.

Fireworks will start at 9:45 p.m. They're shot from the pier on the south end of the lake, offering a vivid aerial display for the thousands who gather in the park, along the highway and on boats.

Contact Lisa Denton at ldenton@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6281.