Independence Day festivities start today

Celebrating America's independence won't wait until July 4 in Carson City.

The Rural Counties Retired and Senior Volunteers Program's 13th annual Fourth of July Cavalcade of Spectaculars begins today at with a carnival at Mills Park.

The carnival, which opens at 4 p.m. today will run through Monday night, when the independence celebration will culminate in the RSVP's annual fireworks show.

The nonprofit organization, which helps homebound seniors stay in their homes rather than be placed in a nursing facility, is seeking donations for the show.

So far, the group has collected $8,000, but the show costs at least $12,000, Ayres said. Last year, RSVP collected slightly more than $10,000 and paid the rest itself.

"Whatever we put in comes out of our Home Companion program," said Janice Ayres, executive director of the program.

Of course, whatever the organization makes at the carnival goes back into the program, too.

The Greater Nevada Credit Union, doling out $5,000, is the largest supporter of the show.

The display of lights and explosion this year are dedicated to U.S. troops abroad, who may not get to celebrate on the nation's most patriotic day, but who may end up watching fireworks of a different kind.

The carnival opens at 4 p.m. today, 2 p.m. Friday and at noon Saturday through Monday, going until midnight each night.

All day ride passes for the carnival are $20 - $17 with a coupon that can be downloaded from the Internet at www.funNbiz.com. On Thursday parents can ride for free with a child who has a ticket.

To contribute to the fireworks, contact the Rural Counties RSVP at 687-4680.

Donations can also be sent to RSVP Fireworks, 444 E. William St. No. 1, Carson City, NV, 89701.

If you go

What: Rural Counties Retired and Senior Volunteers Program's 13th annual Cavalcade of Spectaculars

When: Carnival opens at 4 p.m. today, 2 p.m. Friday and at noon Saturday through Monday, going until midnight each night.

Cost: All-day ride passes are $20; $17 with a coupon that can be downloaded from the Internet at www.funNbiz.com. On Thursday parents can ride for free with a child that has a ticket.

Fireworks show: Begins at dusk Monday from the parking lot of Carson High School and can be seen from Mills Park.