GEORGE - The community of George is gearing up for its 54th annual Independence Day Celebration. In honor of the nation's first president, it will include the famous world's largest cherry pie.

While it may be that sometime, somewhere there was a bigger cherry pie, George continues to make its claim. It is a "stupendous, giant cherry pie" every year, according to organizer Debbie Kooy, also known as Mrs. George.

Another key ingredient of the George Fourth of July is the Wenatchee Youth Circus. After last year's reception by the audiences and celebration organizers, the WYC has decided to be an annual part of the show.

"People will have an additional opportunity to see us this year," WYC founder and leader Paul Pugh said. "We will do a show on Sunday afternoon, in addition to our show on the Fourth."

The WYC has performers from ages two and three to late teens and early 20s. They amaze audiences with their array of talents, including an aerial show.

Other features of the George Fourth of July celebration will be the Cherry Bomb Run, the parade, a crafts/farmers market, the Stars, Bars & Classic Cars Show, and live entertainment on stage.

"New this year will be Mud Bug racing," Kooy said.

The George Fourth of July does not come without some cost. Kooy has put out a call for donations. They can be made to George Community Hall P.O. Box 5064 George, WA 98824.

Kooy anticipates the celebration will cost $13,000. She added that 1,300 donors at $100 each would cover it.

"We depend on you, our community, to partner with us to maintain the quality of this long-running, patriotic event," she said.