[7/5/01]

Even overcast skies didn't keep away the crowds as July 4th rolled through the Cleveland area.  With events kicking off early, like the RE/MAX hot air balloon sponsored by Amelia Pleasant and the pancake breakfast at Oakland Presbyterian Church, early risers had plenty to see and do.

The schedule was running smoothly as the crowds began to stake their claim on the roadside for the upcoming parade.  Many arrived at 9am to attend the official ribbon cutting and opening of the new Cleveland Volunteer Fire Department.   Representative Bob Ethridge presented Fire Chief David Wells with an American Flag to fly above the new facility just before original founding members of the station cut the ribbon to mark the opening of the facility.

Shortly after 10am, the parade started to roll past the grandstand setup in front of the Johnston Community College building.  Approximately 500 cheered the display of floats, performing groups and candy throwers as they made their way down the route. (Note:  The planned Air Force Fly By was canceled due to the fact that armed forces had been placed on alert status.)

With the parade finished the crowds headed for the entertainment and food setup nearby.  This year brought a larger number of activities, especially for children.  The Crossroads Civitan was back with their popular dunking booth, also providing a bean bag toss, duck pond and one of the two jumping castles available for the kids.  Columbus Real Estate and Ashley Turner Enterprises provided a second inflatable funhouse which stayed busy all day.

At 12 noon, 4042.com began distributing the T-shirts and registration cards for our give-a-away.   More than 300 Limited Edition 4042.com T-shirts were handed out in just 45 minutes!!!  Thanks to all who participated.  We look forward to seeing you "wearing the colors" around the Cleveland area!  Click here to see the winners of the $300 cash we gave away!

As in the the past, the crowds thinned out around 4pm, then picked back up just a few hours later as the street dance music started, game booths reopened and the food vendors began serving up the evening menu of hot dogs and french fries.

Unfortunately, partly cloudy skies during the day gave way to thunder and lightening as approaching storms began to threaten the area.  The first gusts of high winds caused most vendors to quickly dismantle their booths to prevent them from blowing over.  The rain continued heavy at times, causing some to leave the festivities under the impression that the fireworks display would be canceled.  However, at 9pm the weather had subsided to the point that the show did go on.

Plans are already underway for next years celebration, which promises to be bigger and better!!

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