Page 2 - Pops on the River 2016

2K SUNDAY, JULY 3, 2016 A CAUSE TO
celebrate
This year’s benefiting charity for Pops on the River is the March of Dimes, a national foundation dedicated to preventing premature birth, birth defects and infant mortality throug research, education and community programs. Somer Brown, development manager for the March of Dimes, said the organization is investing in its C.A.R.E.S program. The acronym stands for Community, Advocacy, Research, Education and Support. She added that she is excited to see the impact the organization will see through raising funds at this event.
“I couldn’t be more thrilled that March of Dimes was chosen as the benefiting charity for the event this year,” she said. “To be chosen as the Pops on the River benefiting charity means that we will not only receive funds to help us accomplish our mission, but we will also spread awareness of our cause to the central- Arkansas community.”
POPS ON THE RIVER ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE ARKANSAS DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE
Hip Pop
Historic event will infuse new elements with traditional core celebration
By Spencer Griffin
SPECIAL SECTIONS WRITER
This July 4 will mark the 33rd annual Pops on the River, presented from noon to 10 p.m. by the Arkansas Democrat-
Gazette, with presenting sponsor Arkansas’ Best Chevy Dealers. The event will take place in the River Market area and at the First Security Bank Amphitheater in downtown Little Rock.
Pops will feature a variety of activities for visitors, including music, family fun, competitions and overall appreciation and celebration for the country’s independence. The event will include free activities for children in the Kids Pavilion, sponsored by Arkansas Children’s Hospital, a classic car show, a marketplace
for shopping, food trucks, entertainment and the “Oh Say! Can You Sing?” contest, sponsored by 106.7 The Ride.
Amanda Copley, marketing and events director for the Arkansas Democrat- Gazette, said she hopes the event provides enjoyment for everybody and stays true to its traditions.
“The core of our 33-year-old event maintains its traditions while continuing to be a free family-friendly festival,” she said. “This year, we have a lot of variety in our marketplace and even more food vendors.”
A portion of the event’s proceeds will benefit the March of Dimes. Pops on the River is also sponsored in part by Hardee’s, Delta Dental, the Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau, Wild River Country and the Army National Guard.
SHEENA HARE/CAPTURE ARKANSAS