Lions Parks hosts July 4 celebration

OTHELLO - Lions Parks in Othello crawled with people Thursday afternoon celebrating Independence Day.

Vendors lined the park with food, crafts and other games. There was even a dunk tank.

July 4 celebrations kicked off in Othello with the "Run for America" hosted by Othello High School track and field boosters. Proceeds from the run went to charity. There was a one-mile course as well as a 5K and 10K.

Those in attendance were treated to a parade at 10 a.m. that featured members of the Othello City Council collecting cans, boxes and non-perishable food. Everything collected was donated to the Othello Food Bank.

The afternoon entertainment kicked off with a talent show at 1 p.m. followed by comedian Alex Zerbe at 1 p.m. and hypnotist Jerry Harris at 4 p.m. Zerbe and Harris performed again at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m., respectively.

Harris' performance was especially enjoyed by the audience because of his ability to make his volunteers do seemingly anything he told them.

At one point during the show one volunteer was convinced she was musician Lady Gaga while the other volunteers were either her background dancers or crazed fans.

Harris was also able to make his volunteers think they were runway models and had them work the stage.

Time trials for the Demolition Derby were held at 5:30 p.m. and the competition immediately followed the qualifying stage. The day concluded with a fireworks display sponsored by the City of Othello.