Craig Howell SHOWING OFF THEIR SPIRIT – The City of Weirton, with support from Summer's Enterprise, is organizing a bicycle decorating contest as part of its planned Independence Day festivities. Discussing the contest are, pictured from left, Assistant City Manager DeeAnn Pulliam, and Summer's Enterprise co-owners Rod and Elaine Summers.

WEIRTON – The City of Weirton is asking area youth to show off their civic pride this Independence Day through decorating their bicycles.

As part of the city’s planned celebrations for the Fourth of July and the United States’ 250th birthday, officials have organized the Weirton America 250 Celebration Bike Decorating Contest, sponsored by Summer’s Enterprise LLC.

“This is a great celebration for our country and our city,” Assistant City Manager DeeAnn Pulliam noted, explaining the city is encouraging local children ages 4 to 12 to take part in the contest, which will include cash prizes for the top three bikes judges feel best represent the America 250 theme.

The first-place recipient will earn $350, with second place getting $250 and third place awarded $150.

There is no cost to enter the bicycle decorating contest, which has a deadline of June 12.

Those who are registered for the contest also will participate in Weirton’s Independence Day Parade on July 4, lining up at parade registration by 4:15 p.m., with judging at 4:30 p.m. The parade will begin at 5 p.m.

Winners will be announced at 6 p.m. in front of the Millsop Community Center.

“We really try to do what we can to support our community, especially when it comes to children,” said Elaine Summers, co-owner of Summer’s Enterprise.

Rod Summers, co-owner, noted he grew up in Weirton and is proud to be able to contribute wherever possible, especially if it means getting the youth of the community more involved.

“That’s why we do what we do,” he said.

Additional information on the contest, as well as how to enter, can be found through the City of Weirton’s website and Facebook page.

In addition to the parade, Weirton’s Independence Day festivities will include the “Freedom Fueled by Revolution” car show, organized through the Revolution Car Club, inflatables and other activities in Municipal Plaza and on Edwin J. Bowman Field, live performances by Joe Grushecky and the Houserockers and Brownie Mary’s Kelsey and Co. at the Weirton Event Center and a fireworks display.