Nature

The Vanishing Lions

Sunday, July 5, 8:00 p.m

As Africa's largest predator, the lion should have nothing to fear. In fact, the king of the savannah faces an uncertain future, with numbers down to less than 30,000. Lion experts, farmers and Masai herdsmen try to figure out why.

Make 'Em Laugh: The Funny Business of America

The Knockabouts: Slip on a Banana Peel

Monday, July 6, 10:00 p.m

This six-hour comedy epic showcases the most hilarious men, women and moments in American entertainment and why they made us laugh. Hosted by funnyman Billy Crystal, the documentary explores the currents of American comedy throughout a century of social and political change, illuminating how comedy has tackled and poked fun at our political system, race relations, gender issues and the prevailing American standards and taboos in everyday life.

Nova

Secrets of the Samurai Sword

Tuesday, July 7, 8:00 p.m

For more than a thousand years, the samurai sword has dominated the battlefields of Japan, instilled fear and terror into every enemy it faced and evoked a spiritual way of life that continues even today. With unparalleled access, NOVA travels deep into Japan’s ancient foundries, follows the craft of the traditional swordsmiths and attends samurai fighting school to reveal the art and science behind making what many call the perfect sword.

The 2009 edition of FANFARES & FIREWORKS has been canceled due to lack of funding and will hopefully return in the future. However, there are other events in North Central Florida including…

July 3

• The City of Williston will have a parade, festivities and fireworks. The celebration begins at 5:00 p.m. at Williston Horseman’s Park. Fireworks begin after dark.

July 4

• Micanopy will have parade at 10:00 a.m. followed by a fish fry.
• The City of Alachua celebration runs from Noon until 10:00 p.m. at the Hal Brady Recreation Complex at 14300 NW 146th Terrace. Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m.
• The City of Gainesville will present the “All American Songfest” from 8:00–10:00 p.m. at the Downtown Community Plaza. The event is free and Two Jays Deli will have free food samples. There will NOT be fireworks.