July 4 celebration not just fireworks

Arizona Summer Wildcat Wildcat file photo

Friday is the Fourth of July, a day that, for many Tucsonans, represents time to kick back and watch "A" Mountain burn.

For those who don't know, fireworks have started fires on "A" Mountain four of the past six years. It's one of the few things we Tucsonans look forward to.

Anyway, I constantly hear people complain that there's nothing to do during the summer months in Tucson. In an effort to help you break the monotony of this sun-scorched town, I have done my best to gather some ideas about where to wet your whistle, shak e your butt, and of course, see a few fireworks.

July 3

If you start your weekends early, like I usually do, head down to the Tucson Toros Star Spangled Spectacular tomorrow night. The Toros host the Phoenix Firebirds at 7 p.m., followed by a sparkling pyrotechnic display. Fans are invited to bring a blanket a nd take in the musically synchronized fireworks.

After the fireworks, The Billy Shears Band will hit the stage and offer renditions of songs by The Beatles, Credence Clearwater Revival, The Beach Boys and Buddy Holly.

A free shuttle service to Hi Corbett field from the southeast corner of El Con Mall begins at 6 p.m.

Tickets are $4 for adults, $3 for seniors and children 6 to 16. Children under 6 are admitted free.

July 4

KFMA is hosting the Fourth on Fourth block party. Seventh Street, between Fourth and Fifth avenues, will be blocked off for the free fiesta. Inside the block, lunatic party freaks will be able to rock out to five of the hottest local bands while getting l iquored up at the beer garden and indulging in a variety of food.

Bleachers will be provided for the annual "A" Mountain fire show, I mean fireworks show. Here's a schedule of the bands:

• 5 p.m. Fierce Bad Rabbit
• 6 p.m. Oslo B
• 7 p.m. Ex-old Ladies
• 8 p.m. Lindy Lou and the Drifters
• 9 p.m. Leanne Savage

Oh yeah, a Fender guitar, personally autographed by Garbage, will be raffled for a buck. Proceeds benefit the Arthritis Foundation.

All you really need to know is that the city-funded "A" Mountain blaze starts at 8:45 p.m.

Lighter Fare

So you don't want to party until you puke; well, our fine city has planned a whole day of family fun at the Tucson Convention Center. It starts off with a 6 a.m. pancake breakfast and continues with sobering activities like the 1 p.m. proclamation reading , followed by a mosquito education seminar. I'm stopping right there.

If you're looking for something with western flavor, try checking out the town of Marana Family Fun Day at Sports Park. It starts at 4:30 p.m. and features line dancing, horse shoes, karaoke, a skydiving exhibition and fireworks after dark. It's $7 a car load, so try to stuff a couple of friends in the trunk.

Cruising to Mt. Lemmon for the weekend can be a great way to escape the heat, but plan on heading up early. Forest Service officials expect most spots to be filled by late Thursday night or early Friday morning. Two favorite spots are Rose Canyon Lake, $9 a night per group, and Spencer Canyon,$8.

Smokey says fire danger is extreme, so don't even think of bringing fire works. And remember, don't feed the bears.

The Screening Room, 127 E. Congress, will be showing "Creature From The Black Lagoon" in trippin' 3-D all weekend. Admission is $5 for adults ($4 for the matinee) with the 3-D glasses included. Call 622-2262 for movie times.

I almost forgot, the police told me that they will be all over the place watching out for irresponsible partiers, so pick a spot and stay there.