Nix places third at Freedom 5K

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Mike Nix, from St. Joseph, runs toward the corner of Lincoln and Florida Avenue during the Freedom 5K on Thursday. Crossing the finish line at 16:58.0, he finished third out of 26 runners in the Male 25 to 29 division. In all more than 400 athletes participated in this year's race. (Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks)

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Plan in place if Mother Nature dampens county 4th of July celebration

On sunny, picture perfect day, Terry Hill of St. Joseph, IL, makes the final turn toward the finish line at the Freedom 5K race in 2008. The annual Fourth of July event drew 525 runners and walkers to its' 15th installment. Hill finished 21st in the Mens 40-44 division with a time of 26:58.8. In case the weather for this year's Champaign County Freedom Celebration turns less than favorable, organizers have a well-thought out plan to allow area residents to celebrate our nation's independence this week. (Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks)

With scattered thunderstorms in the forecast for the Fourth of July, the Champaign County Freedom Celebration posted its Inclement Weather Policy on Facebook. Here is what you need to know if you plan to participate in the 5K walk/run, take in the annual parade or view the evening's exciting fireworks display.

With rain chances at 40%, the event organizers are plans in place for the parade, the evening show and fireworks run as close as it can to the schedule on the Freedom Celebration website. Revelers are encourage to check the site should weather conditions warrant possible changes to start times.

Should weather conditions force the parade to be canceled, it will not be reschedule for another date.

Depending on the timing of any precipitation moving into the area or wind conditions on Thursday, the Board of Directors and Committee consider all the factors that best serves the public and safety protocols and make a decision as when start the fireworks show. The performance may start earlier than scheduled. If the fireworks show is cancelled, it will be held on the following Saturday, July 6.

If weather conditions are favorable, the fireworks show provided by Melrose Pyrotechnics will begin at dusk, approximately 9:15pm.

Visit the CCFC website at https://www.july4th.net for the latest schedule updates and event information.