Published Friday, July 04, 2008

Newnan 4th of July Parade celebrates our nation's birthday

The Times-Herald

With clear skies and temperatures near 90 degrees, it was a beautiful evening for a parade and to show pride in America.

Groups from across Coweta County turned out for the Main Street Newnan Fourth of July parade, which marched from downtown to Newnan High School for the annual Rotary Club celebration and fireworks show.

Local veterans groups helped lead the way, handing out small American flags to everyone along the route to help show the spirit of the red, white and blue. The procession included preachers, politicians and public servants galore, along with plenty of local civic groups and businesses.

A contingent of Newnan and Coweta County public safety vehicles formed an entourage for parade grand marshal Norma Haynes.

Among special displays showing pride in America were a float by Westview Christian Church sporting Snoopy in an airplane over a beach scene, and First Christian with all-American scenes of water fun and grilling out.

The celebrating isn't over, with Main Street playing host for the annual Homemade Ice Cream Festival downtown today.

Today's Market Days on the Square in historic downtown Newnan is the perfect spot to "stay-cation" this July Fourth holiday weekend. Today, Main Street Newnan is extending Market Day from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. to accommodate the Homemade Ice Cream Festival, which will last from noon to 3 p.m.

"Nothing goes with July Fourth weekend like parades, ice cream and festivals," said Main Street Director Linda Bridges-Kee. "We are proud to give the citizens of Coweta County a chance to stay home, save gas and enjoy downtown Newnan. We hope people will visit our merchants and take advantage of the small-town atmosphere around the square. Only in downtown is the owner always in."

Approximately eight nonprofits -- or businesses representing nonprofits -- will be competing for the coveted title of the best ice cream flavor.

Only one flavor may be entered per group for judging. However, participants may serve as many flavors as they would like. There will be cash prizes for the top three flavors judged. In addition, participants may sell baked items and other food/beverages to raise money for their designated organization. Participants may set up at 10 a.m., and selling starts at noon. Judging will be at 12:30.

Prices for ice cream are set at $1 per scoop. Ice cream vendors will be set up around the Court Square.

Market Days on the Square will feature approximately 55 vendors around the Court Square to offer items handmade, homegrown or homemade.