Cops to be out in force on the Fourth

The Fourth of July brings certain things every year, such as fireworks, picnics, ants, games, fun -- and increased law enforcement. Whether you're going to the events in Bell Buckle's city park or H.V. Griffin Park in Shelbyville, keep in mind that area and state law enforcement will be out, looking for drunk drivers.

"It's obvious to recognize someone who's had way too much to drink to drive safely. But what about those who have had just a few too many?" said Department of Safety Commissioner Dave Mitchell. "There is never an acceptable amount of alcohol to have consumed to drive safely. Don't be a threat to yourself and others. If you drink, don't drive, period."

The consequences of drinking and driving are serious and real. Not only do you risk killing yourself or someone else, but the trauma and financial costs of a crash or an arrest for driving impaired can be significant. Violators often face jail time, the loss of their driver's license, higher insurance rates, and dozens of other unanticipated expenses.

"Driving while impaired isn't worth the tremendous risk. No matter your age, if you've had too much holiday spirit, you'd better find a safe and sober ride home or your chances of arrest are high," said THP Commander, Colonel Mike Walker.

During the 2008 July 4 holiday weekend, 11 people died on Tennessee roadways. That's a fatality rate of one death every seven hours and six minutes. Six of the seven people killed in automobile crashes last year were not wearing seatbelts. Four motorcyclists also died during the July 4th holiday weekend last year. Three of the deaths, or 27 percent, occurred in alcohol-related crashes.

In 2007, national statistics indicate 34 percent of all drivers involved in traffic-related crashes during the July 4th holiday period had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher, the legal limit in all states.

"Too many people still fail to understand that alcohol and driving don't mix. Impaired driving is no accident--nor is it a victimless crime. It's vitally important that we bring this tragic situation to an end," said Walker.

Drunk driving is one of America's deadliest problems. Nationwide, in 2007, 41,059 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes. There were 12,988 people who were killed in traffic crashes that involved at least one driver or motorcycle rider with a BAC of .08 or higher.

But there's plenty of fun to be had this weekend -- without alcohol.

Bell Buckle

Bell Buckle will be taking advantage of its annual July 4th Celebration, using it for the grand opening of the park's new amphitheater.

"Uncle Tom's Band will be playing there," said Jenny Hunt, a member of the Bell Buckle Chamber of Commerce. "Bring your lawn chair and a picnic dinner."

The events go on all day, beginning with a car rally at 10:30 a.m. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. and instructions will be given at 10 a.m.

From 11 to 11:30 a.m., Mayor Dennis Webb will welcome everyone to the festivities, which open with the national anthem.

Lunch is served from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The town is supplying the hamburgers and "fixin's," and asks those attending to bring side dishes to share. Soft drinks will be 50 cents each.

There will be an afternoon break to beat the heat after the car rally awards are handed out at 1 p.m.

Uncle Tom's Band kicks in at 7 p.m. It will play until the fireworks show begins at 9 p.m.

Shelbyville

At H.V. Griffin Park, the day will being with a ribbon cutting for the new disc golf course at Hole 1, followed by a tournament. A senior citizens luncheon and gospel singing will begin at noon and last until 2:30 in the Rec Center meeting room. Other festivities begin at 3 p.m. with the children's "Red, White and Blue" parade. Each child will receive a flag from Exchange Club of Bedford County.

At 3:30, the fun and games begin. There will be tricycle races, horseback rides, a huge Slip N' Slide, bounce houses, a watermelon split, face painting, music, food vendors, clowns and more.

The American STARS competition will also begin at 3:30 p.m. at the Lions Club Pavilion and will last until 9.pm. The pool will be open from 10 a.m. at 5 p.m. at a special rate of $1 per person, weather permitting. Fireworks begin at 9 p.m.

Barbecue

International House of Prayer Ministries, 865 Union St., invites the community to attend a barbecue on July 4 beginning at 5 p.m. There will be free hot dogs and drinks, and musical entertainment will be provided by Kevin Nerren and friends. Everyone is welcome.

Flat Creek

The Flat Creek Community Club will hold a pig roast and 4th of July celebration on Saturday at the home of Roger and June Debitan, 170 Ike Farrar Road, at 6 p.m.

Closings

* Bedford County Courthouse and courthouse annex will close Friday (and Saturday where applicable).

* Shelbyville City Hall will close Friday.

* Wartrace Town Hall will close Friday.

* Bell Buckle Town Hall will close Friday.

* U.S. Post Offices will close at noon Friday and will remain closed on Saturday. There will be no mail delivery on Saturday.

* The Shelbyville Times-Gazette will not publish Friday and our offices will be closed. Our Sunday edition will be published as normal.

* Shelbyville garbage routes normally collected Monday will be collected Tuesday instead.

* Beford County Recycling and Convenience Centers will close Saturday only.

* Bedford County Health Department will close Friday.

* Bedford County Utility District will close Friday.

* Argie Cooper Public Library will close Friday and Saturday.

* Shelbyville & Bedford County Senior Citizens Center will close Friday.

Open

* Duck River Electric Membership Corp. offices will remain open on the normal schedule.

* Shelbyville Recreation Center will remain open during the Independence Day observance at H.V. Griffin Park Complex and will have special discounts for the holiday.