What has Happened Recently: A Memorable Fourth of July
Celebrations for the Fourth of July in Highland are always exciting, but this year, the festivities were even more spectacular than normal.
Last month, Highland residents were promised a great firework show due to last year’s show being canceled, and they were not disappointed. Not only was the weather perfect for the show, but the stunning event lasted over 30 minutes and had a large variety of bright, unique fireworks that spectators were able to enjoy from Homestead Park. The fireworks were provided by Mad Bomber Fireworks.
Along with the firework show, the Fourth of July Festival was a success, with the five-day event having a big turnout each day. Those who went got to enjoy rides, music, and a variety of different foods from the vendors. The Twilight Parade was also fun for both adults and children, whether they were in the parade or watching from the sidewalk.
Overall, with the extraordinary firework show, celebratory parade, and exciting festival, it is easy to say that this year’s Fourth of July season will be one to remember for Highland.
What is Coming Up: More Summer Activities in Highland
Although the Fourth of July has now passed, there is still a lot of summer left, and Highland has lots of upcoming activities planned.
One of these is the Summer Concert Series, which is held in Main Square Park. Attendees will be able to listen to live bands from 5-7:45 p.m. on Saturdays from July 13 - August 24th.
Additionally, Highland’s fishing derby will take place on Saturday, July 13th. There will be a separate derby for kids (ages 6-13) and adult (ages 14+). The event will take place at Meadows Park. The kid’s derby is from 8-10 a.m. and the adult derby is from 3-9 p.m. For the kid’s derby, there is a fee of $7 for residents and $10 for nonresidents, and the adult derby fee is $10 for residents and $13 for non-residents. Prior registration is required and participants must bring their own pole, hooks, and bobbers.
Another fun activity at Main Square is the summer theatre production of Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka. You can see the show at 8 p.m. on the following dates:
Thursday, July 25th
Friday, July 26th
Saturday, July 27th
Thursday, August 1st
Friday, August 2nd
Saturday, August 3rd
The concession stand will be open for spectators, and programs cost $2.
Student Spotlight: Ericah Dongu
For as long as she can remember, music has been a major component in Ericah Dongu’s life. Dongu, who will be a junior at Highland High School next year, enjoys anything that relates to music whether she is singing it, listening to it, or writing it.
“Music is one of my passions because it allows me to turn any experience I have, whether positive or negative, into something good.”
Dongu’s affinity for music lead to join choir in the sixth grade. She has taken it every year since then, and next year will be her second year as a member of Highland High School’s advanced girls’ choir.
Dongu enjoys singing for others and has participated in school talent shows and has sung in choir concerts. However, she is no stranger to performing under pressure, as she was given a big opportunity in the past.
“A little while back, I was lucky enough to audition for America’s Got Talent in Chicago. It was one of the best experiences I have ever had.” Dongu explained. “I still use what I learned from that opportunity when I sing now.”
When she is not singing, she is working on her own original songs.
“I love how music gives me the freedom to be creative,” she said.
Although she mainly writes songs, she also writes poetry and short stories if she is feeling inspired.
One of Ericah’s favorite hobbies is listening to music.
“I enjoy a lot of different genres, but my favorite to listen to is 90’s punk.”
Dongu’s favorite songs to sing differ greatly.
“I love singing songs from musicals, and slower songs and ballads,” she explained.
Although Dongu already has an array of experience with singing and songwriting, she is still always looking for ways to improve.
“I am proud of how far I have come with my voice, and I’m improving every day.”
Although there is no way to tell where music will bring her in the future, there is no denying that she has come a long way already.