GREENWOOD — As Independence Day draws near, Greenwood Mayor Doug Kinslow continued one of his favorite summer traditions with a stop at Jake’s Fireworks on Center Street, where he greeted residents, supported a longtime local business and encouraged the community to celebrate safely during the holiday weekend.
“I dropped by Jake’s Fireworks on Center Street last Saturday, keeping alive a personal tradition that I first had the privilege of starting several years ago,” Kinslow said. “It is an annual highlight that I still enjoy, giving me the perfect opportunity to kick off our summer season, catch up with neighbors and support a fantastic local business.”
For more than two decades, Jake’s Fireworks has been owned and operated by Charlie and Tammy Jones. Over the years, the seasonal business has become a Fourth of July tradition for countless families throughout Greenwood and the surrounding communities. Many customers return year after year, not only to purchase fireworks but also to visit with the Jones family, who have become a familiar part of the holiday season.
Kinslow thanked Charlie and Tammy Jones for their hospitality and for their continued investment in the Greenwood community.
Looking ahead to the city’s annual Independence Day celebration, the mayor invited residents to attend Freedom Fest on the Square, scheduled from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. The event will feature food trucks, live music, children’s activities and conclude with Greenwood’s annual fireworks display after dark.
“It is the perfect community tradition to celebrate America’s birthday together,” Kinslow said.
While encouraging residents to enjoy the festivities, Kinslow also emphasized the importance of fireworks safety.
“As your Mayor, your safety is my absolute top priority so everyone can enjoy the holiday,” he said.
He reminded those planning to use fireworks in areas where they are permitted to always keep a water hose nearby and never allow children to handle fireworks without adult supervision.
For families attending Freedom Fest, Kinslow recommended bringing a tent, cooler and fan to stay comfortable during the summer heat.
“Let’s look out for one another, keep safety at the forefront, and I will see you all out on the Square,” he said.
As another Fourth of July approaches, Jake’s Fireworks continues to serve as more than just a place to purchase fireworks. Thanks to Charlie and Tammy Jones’ more than 20 years of dedication, it has become a gathering place where neighbors reconnect, families begin their holiday traditions and the excitement of Independence Day comes alive.
With Freedom Fest just around the corner, Greenwood is once again preparing to celebrate the nation’s birthday with community pride, patriotic spirit and a safe holiday for all.
