“We're over half way there, so we're real pleased about that,” said Jan Hansen, president of the Fourth of July Foundation. “Of course we're still accepting donations. We don't want to discourage anyone. It's a great show and we are able to make it free to the public by means of some generous corporations, businesses, organizations and individuals.”

Each year, the foundation tries to put together a little something different and this year is no exception. Vocal Trash, well known for their humor as well as musical skills, will open the concert, which is held at the Comanche Trail Park Amphitheater.

“We're going to have some special activities, too, but the public is going to have to come out to the park that night to see them. It's a secret,” Hansen said with a laugh.

One activity that isn't being kept secret is a tribute to service men and women. In fact, the foundation is asking community members who have loved ones serving in the military to share photographs of their soldiers, sailors and airmen.

“For several years now we’ve had a video salute to our local men and women in the military, but for the most part it’s just been pictures of them in uniform,” Hansen said. “This year, though, we’d like to be able to show pictures of our military people that show them on duty or off duty where they're stationed ... to give people an idea of just what they’re doing and what their lives are like.”

Photos can either be e-mailed to Debbye ValVerde at the Big Spring Chamber of Commerce at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , or they can be dropped off at the chamber office at 215 W. Third St.

Pops is arguably the biggest event in Big Spring each year, drawing thousands to the park. The event features a concert by the Big Spring Symphony and Chorus with much of it choreographed with the fireworks show.

“Dr. (Phil) Graumann has really planned a wonderful concert. It's really inspiring,” said Hansen.

Vendors will furnish plenty of hot dogs, hamburgers, ice cream and other food items, as well as novelties, drinks and the like.

Vendor booth space is still available. Those interested should contact Becky Crane at 267-5449 or 517-0373. Vendor packets are available at the Chamber of Commerce.

Those interested in making a donation to the project can do so by contacting Debbye ValVerde at the Chamber at 263-7641 or mail them to the chamber office at P.O. Box 1391, Big Spring 79721-1391.