SHREVEPORT, La. - As communities across the nation prepare to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, local organizers in Shreveport are planning a series of patriotic events designed to honor the country's history, citizenship, and community spirit.
SPAR Director Shelly Ragle joined KTBS Community Projects Director Jan Elkins to discuss several upcoming activities that are part of the America 250 celebration initiative.
One of the first events on the schedule is a flag giveaway at Columbia Park, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. The celebration is being organized in partnership with the Highland Restoration Association and the Highland Neighborhood Association.
The centennial celebration will take place on Saturday at Columbia Park. Activities will be held from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., featuring music and family-friendly entertainment. A free American flag giveaway, conducted in partnership with KTBS, will take place from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Another major event planned as part of the America 250 celebration is a naturalization ceremony at the historic Strand Theatre on July 2.
The event will begin at 2 p.m. with a performance by the Victory Belles. At 3 p.m., new United States citizens will take the Oath of Allegiance during a naturalization ceremony that will be broadcast live on KTBS and open to the public.
"What a great opportunity to see people having the opportunity to gain their citizenship and to see that process happen," Ragle said. "Not only will it be exciting, but it will also be educational for all of us."
In addition to the flag giveaway and naturalization ceremony, the annual Squirrel Run is scheduled for Saturday as part of the celebration leading up to Independence Day festivities.
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