Organizers are putting the finishing touches on the tenth annual Bladenboro Fun Day.

The Historical Building, located on South Main Street in the old Bladenboro School, will be the center of the day's festivities.

The primary fundraiser for the Bladenboro Historical Society, the event gets underway with the Rotary Club pancake breakfast at 7 a.m.

A service honoring policemen, emergency workers and the victims of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks begins at 9:30 a.m. (See related story.)

William Butler of the Historical Society said the event will have a "little bit of everything" this year.

Children and adults alike can visit the petting zoo. Wagon rides-using full size horse-drawn wagons, and miniature wagons with tiny teams-will circle the grounds of the school building throughout the day.

Entertainment ranging from musical groups to demonstrations by members of the Carolina Karate School will take place starting at 10:15 a.m.

Drawings will be held hourly for prizes donated by various area businesses. The prizes range from meals to free tire rotations. The society will also raffle off a Bladen County afghan. Tickets are $1.

Many of the activities this year are geared toward children, Butler said. Various groups will offer facepainting and games like the football toss.

The Bladenboro Police Department will also be fingerprinting and photographing children as a step against abductions.

The Bladenboro Fire Department will also have its new 50-foot aerial ladder truck on display.]

A "country store" selling everything from coffee cups to household goods and historical society memorabilia will be available for bargain hunters and supporters of the Historical Society.

Society member J.D. Hargrove is scheduled to demonstrate is extensive model train setup in the historical building.

All events take place at the Historical Building, and there is no admission charge.

"This is a big event for us," said Butler. "Outside of our gift shop and regular donations, this is the major fundraiser for the Historical Society."

"Everyone works real hard to make this a success," Butler said. "We can't thank everyone enough for all their support."

Around 300-400 visitors are expected for the event, Butler said.