Milton’s Small-Town Charm on Parade

publication date: Jul 7, 2008

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author/source: Jamie Woodhead / STAFF

By Jamie Woodhead / STAFF

Caitlin Davies spent hours decorating her bike in red, white, and blue for the parade.

Milton Rodeo Wranglers led Milton’s parade in style

There is nothing new about a Fourth of July parade. There are floats, people throw candy, and flags are in abundance. But everything was new to the young city of Milton for its first ever Independence Day Parade.

Milton’s twist on the typical July 4 parade represented exactly what the city strives to be. Unlike other parades in the area, anyone – and I mean anyone – was allowed to participate in the parade. Project Coordinator Linda Plow explained what made the parade different.

“Anybody can be in it,” she said. “You don’t have to sign up to be a part of it. You can even bring your cows if you want.”

Nobody seemed to notice that the parade lacked a numerous amount of floats. The citizens just seemed happy that instead of sitting on the sidelines, they could actually strut their patriotic selves right alongside the mayor and local firemen. Instead of looking at the action, they were a part of it.

Milton Rodeo Wranglers led Milton’s parade in style.

Stump, a rescue dog that is up for adoption from the Atlanta Dog Squad, displayed patriotic canine pride.

“We are not sure what we are doing since it’s our first attempt. But we are definitely having fun,” stated Plow. And it truly did seem like everyone was having fun. Even though the temperature was scorching, there was no complaining or crying to be seen.  The citizens exuded an air of pride while marching their red, white and blue bikes and wagons.

“I’m excited,” said Mayor Joe Lockwood. “I hope this is just the start. I think it will spread. The parade is kind of small now, but it will get bigger and bigger.”

Getting bigger and bigger is exactly what Plow hopes for the parade as well. According to her, even as the parade grows, “there will always be citizen participation.”

Madelin Freeman waved her flag proudly while being pulled in her patriotic wagon.