Colbert July Fourth Celebration

The city of Colbert will hold its 47th annual Fourth of July celebration Saturday, July 2 with the theme: "Parade of Heroes - Celebrating America's 240th birthday."

"This year, we will honor all veterans who have served our great country in any branch of the armed forces, both past and now serving," said city leaders. "They are invited to be in the parade or gather at the stage for a time of honor and recognition following the parade."

The city will honor Joe Morris, who will celebrate his 100th birthday in September, a life-time citizen of Colbert and a WWII veteran. The July 4th booklet is dedicated to him for his life and service to the United States.

Ricky Smith will serve as "The Master of Ceremonies" for the parade, which begins at 9 a.m. The parade will feature marching bands, twirlers, antique cars, tractors, exhibits of military vehicles, floats, and many others. At the end of the parade at the stage, presentations and introductions by Mayor Chris Peck and John Waggoner.

The National Anthem will be performed by Tripp Strickland. The Pledge of Allegiance will be led by Donna Jordan and students of The Learning Train.

The Grand Marshal will be Anthony Dove. The "Citizen of the Year" is Samantha Wyatt, Sergeant U.S. Army.

"A host of local musicians and singers will present a good old-fashioned day of live entertainment from the stage featuring Brandon and Steve Moss, Clarke Kesler and Friends, Danny Anthony and others," organizers said.

Men and women of Colbert Baptist Church will cook and serve the "famous barbecue and stew plates $9/plate including tea.

There will also be a variety of other concessions, including the Colbert Lions Club hamburgers, hotdogs, and drinks. Numerous vendors and exhibitors will be present to show off their food items and hand-made arts and crafts.

"There will be lots of fun and activities for all ages," organizers said.

Horseshoe pitching contests for all ages, men and women, will begin at 11 a.m. beside the log cabin. You do not have to be professional to participate. Amateurs are welcome to try their skills. The Red Caboose, the Log Cabin, and the Museum will be open from 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. Linda Fortson will lead an old fashioned tour through the Museum and talk about the founding and history of Colbert.

To ride or march in the parade, call City Hall at 706-788-2311; to register as a vendor for booth space, call Jenny Mason 709-255-7053.

"Mayor Chris Peck, Mr. John Waggoner, City Council, and all the citizens of Colbert would like to invite everyone to come celebrate Independence Day with us again this year," said city leaders. "Remember, Saturday, July 2, 2016!"