Local News - June 2002

July 4 celebration offers new prizes, kids’ costume show

By ALICE SMITH, LTN Staff Writer

June 10, 2002 - The countdown to the July 4 celebration is on, and this year parade entrants have the chance to win a weekend get-a-way.

While the exact destination of the prize is not yet known, Parade Committee Chairwoman Madeline Elmore said the winner and a guest will be sent to either a mountain or a beach location.

Trophies will be presented for the Most Creative, Most Patriotic and Best Family entries.

Anyone can participate in the parade, and all float-types and marching units are welcome. Registration is free.

Suggested parade entries are: veterans groups, family groups, Boy and Girl Scouts, beauty queens, schools, ROTC, bands, cars, dancers, dog walkers, bicycle riders, clowns and emergency vehicles.

The only stipulation is that every person or group participating must fly or display the American flag.

Parade line-up starts at 6 p.m. at East Main and Cedar Street. The parade will start at 7:45 p.m. and will end at Lincolnton High School.

Those interested in being in the parade must fill out an application. Forms can be picked up at the following locations: the Chamber of Commerce, City Hall, Citizens Center, Lincolnton Antique Mall, Carolina Furniture Mart, Iron Station Superette, Cat Square Superette, One Stop in Crouse, Abernethy Texaco in Pumpkin Center, Bob’s Superette on Highway 27 West and Ace Hardware in Denver.

“Last year we had more than 100 (entries),” Elmore said. “We hope all those will come back — and more.”

New to the celebration this year is a children’s patriotic costume fashion show. Kids 12 and younger are invited to dress up in patriotic costumes and show their red, white and blue spirit on the east side of the Courthouse.

Savings bonds will be awarded to the best dressed children. Parents should get their children to the Courthouse by 5:30 p.m.

Children’s activities and games will start at 6:30 p.m. Kids can compete in events like marble shooting, bubble blowing and hopscotch. Face-painting and temporary tattooing will also be available.

Ceremonies will begin at 9 p.m. at Lincolnton High School Stadium. Former North Carolina Treasurer and Lincoln native Harlan Boyles will speak. Musical guests will perform.

Fireworks will light up the night sky at 9:30 p.m.

Committee members said plans are moving along right on schedule.

“We’re all working together,” said Ken Kindley, Lincolnton/Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce president.

In the event of rain, the entire event will be rescheduled for Friday July 5.

© 2001 Lincoln Times-News  

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