Blue Ridge celebrates Independence Day with annual parade
Community, Downtown Blue Ridge, Festivals July 5, 2023FANNIN COUNTY, Ga. — At 10 a.m., on the morning of Independence Day, both tourists and locals gathered in Downtown Blue Ridge to watch as The Old Timers’ Parade made its way down East Main Street. The event, hosted by the Blue Ridge Business Association, was just one of the Fourth of July events in the area.
On their website, the Blue Ridge Business Association says the parade has been a part of holiday traditions in the Blue Ridge since the 1950s. Government officials, local businesses, organizations, and even a family reunion took part in the parade through town.
Patrons of the parade watched from the street-side as the Fannin County Fire Department made a memorable appearance with several fire trucks.
Representatives of the Blue Ridge and Fannin County Government also made appearances.
Well known establishments in the community made their way through downtown as well. The Blue Ridge Community Theater, Grumpy Old Men Brewing, and Project Chimps were just some.
As the morning’s festivities came to a close, the Tri-State Community Band performed for visitors in the downtown area. Opening with the National Anthem, the band performed several songs to celebrate the Fourth.
Other Patrons
Information on FCMS Veteran’s Program
Announcements, Community October 8, 2020Happy Veteran‘s Day!
The students, faculty and staff of Fannin County Middle School would like to invite you to participate in our first ever Veteran‘s Drive Through Parade on November 6th, 2020.
Our regular Veteran‘s Day program will not proceed as it has in the past due to COVID; however, our school still has a desire to honor those who served and are still serving!
All Veterans and family members are invited to participate from the safety of their own vehicle. THOSE PARTICIPATING IN THE PARADE WILL NOT BE IN CONTACT WITH ANYONE OUTSIDE OF THEIR VEHICLES.
Directions for participants are listed below:
1) Meet at the Blue Ridge United Methodist Church on Orvin Lance Connector at 12:30 PM
on November 6, 2020. Officer Anthony Walden will be there to help you get your car in
line for the parade. . 2) Follow the Grand Marshall down to Fannin County Middle School. Enjoy the crowds of
cheering students and the 8th grade band as you progress through the parade route.
We look forward to seeing you Friday, November 6th at 1:00 for our Veteran‘s Drive Through Parade. Our students and faculty are looking forward to seeing you!
IN THE EVENT OF INCLEMENT WEATHER, THE PARADE WILL TAKE PLACE ON MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9TH @ 1:00 PM.
Fannin County honors veterans
Community, Downtown Blue Ridge November 21, 2018Blue Ridge, Ga. – “On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month when the guns fell silent, we will remember.”
Nov. 11, 1918 marked the end of World War I. Armistice Day was created to remember those who fought in this great battle. World War I had been dubbed “the war to end all wars” but 100 years later we now have Veteran’s Day, in honor of the countless men and women who have served in our military through several conflicts up to present times.
Fannin County observed Veterans Day on Saturday, Nov. 10 with a parade in downtown Blue Ridge followed by a memorial service at Fannin’s Veterans Memorial Park.
Despite cold temperatures, families lined East Main Street as the parade passed by. Vehicles were adorned with American flags, as were the businesses downtown.
The parade marked a time of celebration of our veterans and what they have sacrificed for the continued freedom of our nation, but the memorial service marked a time to remember, a time to honor, and a time for military brothers and sisters to come together once more.
Flags were flown high at the Veterans Memorial Park. From left to right were the POW/MIA (Prisoners of War / Missing in Action) flag, followed by the different branches of our armed services in the order that they were authorized by Congress: Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Air Force.
“Always posted a little brighter and a little taller than the other flags” was the American Flag.
Representatives from the Capt. James Kell Chapter of National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution presented a wreath at the ceremony: “In honor of all of those who could not be here with us today, who are being held prisoner of war, or those who are not accounted for.”
Keynote speaker retired Army Colonel Gary Engel is a distinguished military graduate with a career spanning 28 years.
Engel acknowledged the veterans present at the memorial service and also took time to honor local police, firefighters, and first responders: “”I believe they are on the home front defending. They are some great guys and a lot of times they are not recognized for what they do for our country.”
Speaking of the characteristics that define a veteran, Engle said, “Veterans are different. If you want to look at success in life, look at a veteran.”
Some of the areas that Engel highlighted as defining a veteran are honor, integrity, courage, loyalty, discipline, and selfless service: “Veterans understand that it’s not about them.”
“One of the most powerful things that a vet has is faith,” Engel said adding that faith means to serve instead of being served. Through faith Engel said comes the most important characteristic, love.
“Love for country. Love for family. Love for their brothers in arms,” all of this Engel says veterans have in common. “Success is not about some of the things of this world, but about how many lives you can touch. Successful people touch other people and they allow other people to have dreams of freedom to live in a free country.”
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
Paws in the Park 2017 ~ Support the Humane Society of Blue Ridge
Community October 25, 2017Every year, Humane Society of Blue Ridge hosts Paws in the Park, an event that invites our community’s pet owners and animal lovers to participate in a variety of events, including a pet parade, costume contest, pet photos, and our main attraction: the Paws in the Park 5K, a USATF-certified 5K race course that runs through the streets of downtown Blue Ridge. In 2015, the Mutt Mile was introduced, a shorter course perfect for walkers and young ones.
Remember “ADOPT DON’T SHOP” and for those who want to find out more or support our local Humane Society of Blue Ridge Click Here!
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Blue Ridge Honors Veterans Day
Community, Featured November 12, 2017BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – “On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month when the guns fell silent, we will remember.”
Blue Ridge remembered on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2017, as the community honored our veterans. The week leading up to this day of recognition was marked with observances held throughout the county.
Fannin County School Systems hosted guest speakers at each of the schools to talk with students about the meaning behind this day of remembrance and appreciation.
Early Saturday morning, residents began to line East Main Street for the annual Veterans Day Parade. Shops displayed their American flags in support of our men and women who have served, and visitors to our downtown area dressed patriotically and waved their handheld versions of Old Glory.
The parade was a beautiful display. Antique cars carried many of our county’s veterans. These veterans ranged from World War II to present day conflicts in the Middle East.
The Fannin County High School Band marched proudly while playing “God Bless America.”
Fannin County Emergency vehicles adorned with flags representing all branches of our armed services followed along.
Members of the North East Georgia Combat Veteran Association rode their motorcycles behind the the emergency vehicles.
The parade began on East Main Street and followed a route that ended at the Fannin Veterans Memorial Park.
It was at this Memorial Service that the unspoken spirit of Veterans Day could be felt and experienced. As the parade made its way to this ending point, veterans and families gathered and filled the seats bordering the memorial.
Veterans from different eras greeted each other and shook hands. Some of these veterans gave hugs, some shared their experiences, and others just silently nodded in recognition of an unspoken story.
This day has a deep meaning for those who have worn the uniform. It is a day where they can meet openly, where they can feel the bond of brotherhood again, and for many, a day where they are understood and where they can feel at ease.
Keynote Speaker Chief Master Sergeant Scott Peters showed this sentiment when he stated, “It’s a day to put veterans first. In peacetime or wartime all veterans have taken an oath indicating that they were willing to offer their lives.”
Peters addressed the struggles that many veterans face when returning to civilian life: “Twenty-two veterans a day take their own lives. This is a tragedy for Americans.”
Speaking to all Americans, Peters urged, “We must be willing to pick them up when they are down, help point out the way (to) a new life when they return home, and carry them when they are weary.”
As he said these words the veterans in the crowd were moved, some hanging their head in silent prayer. For the veterans, this is a part of their story. A story that can only be understood by having served.
Representatives from the Missing in America Project were present to receive a check for monies raised by the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association (CVMA).
Representative of CVMA, Andy Owens, discussed the mission of the Missing in America Project. The organization locates the forgotten remains of veterans left at funeral homes or in medical examiner offices across America.
An example was cited of having recently located remains that had been stored at a funeral home in North Georgia for at least 25 years.
The Missing in America Project will provide a proper military burial in a National Cemetery for the unclaimed remains of their fellow brothers and sisters in arms.
Veterans Day is a day to honor those who serve and have served our country, but for veterans, it is a day to come together. It is a day where an unspoken truth is shared among these brave men and women. It is truth that only comes from experiencing the anticipation of receiving “the call,” and the bravery of answering that call.
This day is for previous generations to show support to the younger men and women currently serving, to let them know that others have been there before. It is a day for younger members of the military to thank the men and women who paved the way for future generations, and to realize that one day they will be that older generation showing support.
It is a day for everyone in America to take a moment and observe the sacrifices made by our military so that we may enjoy a country with freedoms.
FetchYourNews recognizes those who have served in our military both past and present, and we thank you for your service.
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Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
11th Annual Paws in the Park presented by Humane Society of Blue Ridge October 21st 10am – 2pm Downtown Blue Ridge City Park
Community September 21, 20174th of July Events
Community June 29, 2017Fireworks in Downtown McCaysville
FRIDAY NIGHT!! 6/30!! |
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From June 30, 2017 To July 01, 2017 | ||
Take the car or hop on the Blue Ridge Scenic RR, Firecracker Express to see the fireworks shot off from the top of Tater Hill. The Tri-Cities Business Association continues a long standing Copper …More | ||
Firecracker Special Train Ride
FRIDAY NIGHT !!! 6/30!! Before the McCaysville Fireworks |
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From June 30, 2017 To July 01, 2017 | ||
Enjoy the fireworks and ride the Firecracker Special to McCaysville, no worries about where to park or sitting in traffic! Watch the fireworks from the comfort of your seat on the train or absorb …More | ||
Fireworks at Lake Blue Ridge
Lake Blue Ridge Marina |
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July 01, 2017 | ||
Save the date for the 2017 Lake Blue Ridge Fireworks! More information to follow as the event gets closer. The fireworks at Lake Blue Ridge Marina are the Saturday closest to the Fourth of July. You …More |
4th of July Parade
Downtown Blue Ridge |
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July 01, 2017 | ||
Blue Ridge’s, Old Timers Parade is always held on the Saturday closest to the 4th of July. That means this year it is July 1, 2017. The parade is not a 4th of July parade but rather a celebration …More |
Lake Blue Ridge Boat Parade
Lake Blue Ridge |
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July 02, 2017 | ||
2nd Annual Lighted Boat Parade to benefit the LBRCA Fannin County Scholarship Fund. Parade will begin at the Dry Branch Boat Launch and end at the marina. You can view this parade from Morganton …More | ||
4th of July Observance at Epworth Epworth Community Club |
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July 04, 2017 | ||
This is a great American 4th of July event for kids of all ages. Located at the Old Epworth Elementary School cafeteria and play ground. Come as you are. Day begins at 8 a.m. with a pancake breakfast …More | ||
Downtown Blue Ridge GA |
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July 04, 2017 | ||
Start your July 4th celebration with a scenic 5K or 10K run through beautiful historic downtown Blue Ridge. Bring your friends and family out to be a part of the inaugural Blue Ridge Freedom 5K and …More |
Light up Blue Ridge ~ November 26th 2016!
Community, Featured November 26, 2016Categories:
- Professional – Baker, Restaurant, Culinary School, Caterer
- Business & Organization – Any Business or Organization within tri-state area
- Adult Individual – 18 years & over
- Youth Individual – 17-13 ages
- Kids – 12 & under group or individual
- Fine Artist (New this year)
Fannin County & Pickens County LIVE AT 9 AM: 6ABC/DUNKIN’ DONUTS THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE
Community, Featured November 24, 2016Click here to watch the Fannin County and Pickens County High School Band
LIVE AT 9 AM: 6ABC/DUNKIN’ DONUTS THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE
The Pride of North Georgia: Pride of Pickens Band and Fannin County High School Band Unforgettable Trip
Community, Featured December 3, 2016November the 20th, both the Pride of Pickens Band and the Fannin County High School Band traveled to perform in the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day parade. The two bands came together to perform as one~ THE PRIDE OF NORTH GEORGIA.
Please help show pride in our schools. Share with your friends and family. Anyone who has ever played in a high school marching band knows the camaraderie of the band family. Those are bonds these band kids will share in common, even though they attend two different high schools.
Enjoy a glimpse into the band trip below:
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Two of our local bands, Fannin County High School Band and Pride of Pickens Band took the opportunity to travel and perform in Philadelphia, PA. They also visited New York on this trip. This trip forged friendships and created memories which will surely remain a distinct experience for these young band members. FetchYourNews spoke with a Fannin County Band member, Ashley Fields, and asked her what the trip was like for her.
Ashley told us, “It was amazing, after going once I feel like I want to go again. Just because everything’s so huge and there was so much I didn’t see. But everything I did see was was amazing!”
Congratulations to these young men and women we are all proud of them and their excellent performance!
The Pride of North Georgia: Pride of Pickens Band and Fannin County High School Band travel to perform in the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade
Community November 20, 2016November the 20th, Sunday, both the Pride of Pickens Band and the Fannin County High School Band began their travel to perform in the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day parade.
They will become one Band. THE PRIDE OF NORTH GEORGIA. Please help show pride in our schools. Share with your friends and family. Everyone can watch them live at 6ABC.com Congratulations to these young men and women we are all proud of them and look forward to the excellent performance!
Lake Blue Ridge on the 4th 7/1/16
GMFTO July 3, 2016Jo Ann Myers joins BKP to speak about Fannin County and the Boat Parade on Lake Blue Ridge.
https://youtu.be/I10lFVKCFDs