Local News - July 2002

Patriotic spirits soar

Fireworks light sky after rain dampens parade

By ANDIE LEATHERMAN, LTN Staff Writer

July 5, 2002 - Rain did not dampen the patriotic spirits of the crowds who came out for a Happy Birthday America Celebration Thursday evening.

Organizers started a parade along East Main Street 30 minutes early, attempting to avoid wet weather. Approximately three-fourths of the entries were able to make it through the route before being rained out.

By dark, skies cleared, allowing the fireworks show at Lincolnton High School stadium to go on as planned.

Fire trucks, political candidates and vintage cars made the biggest showing during the parade.

For 6-year-old Wesley Martin of Lincolnton, the color guard leading the parade was the best part. His sister, Jessica Martin, 8, was looking forward to the fireworks, her favorite part of Independence Day.

It was the first July 4 parade for their younger sister Jenna Martin, 2. Holding a small American flag, she watched the festivities from her stroller.

Their grandmother Libby Reel of Lincolnton, liked the American Legion’s float which featured life-sized silhouettes of celebrities.

Davis Jones, 8, of Mooresville, cast his vote for the Oasis Bobtails which entertained the crowds with their synchronized driving.

Davis and his sister Sierra Jones were at the parade with their mother Jill Jones.

A panel of three judges, all from out of town, picked official winners. Lincolnton’s VFW took the most patriotic honor with a float filled with flags and members.

World War II veterans, riding in a sport utility vehicle, were tapped as the best overall.

“All the entries are to be commended for their time, talent and effort,” said Madeline Elmore, parade committee chairwoman.

Despite the rain’s effect on the parade, Elmore was upbeat.

“It was a blessing, an act of God. We should be thankful, but it is disappointing for the people who put in hard work. We’ll keep trying,” she said Thursday night.

This is the 13th annual Independence Day parade for Lincolnton.

In the wake of Sept. 11, the parade and fireworks show were dedicated to individuals serving in the armed forces and to all public safety officials. All parade entries were required to display an American flag.

Prior to the parade, there was a children’s patriotic costume contest and games on the courtsquare. Hula hoops, marbles shooting, hopscotch and bubble blowing contests were all part of the fun.

Former state Treasurer Harlan Boyles gave the keynote address in a ceremony prior to the fireworks show.

A musical trio consisting of Gaye Howard, Anna Lisa Johannessen and Sherry Duncan sang patriotic songs

© 2001 Lincoln Times-News  

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