DEMOREST - The City of Demorest is gearing up for a milestone Independence Day celebration.<br />
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On Friday, the city will host its 125th Glorious Fourth of July downtown.<br />
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"It's a huge milestone for the city," says Mayor Rick Austin. "It's our 125th anniversary of the celebration of the Glorious Fourth of July for the City of Demorest. I know it's the longest-running Fourth of July celebration in the state and, it's my understanding, it's the longest-running Fourth of July Independence Day celebration in the United States."<br />
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In addition to traditional features, the city will debut its Johnny Mize Baseball Fun Book, a tribute to Baseball Hall of Fame member and Demorest native Johnny Mize. The activity book, geared to elementary-age students, will feature a word maze, trivia questions, coloring page, map of key cities in the U.S., and more. It will be on sale for $5.<br />
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Also on sale will be the city's fourth set of 10 historic postcards, featuring both old and new images, for $5.<br />
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"We're very excited about this year," Austin said. "We've added a few nuances that haven't been there before."<br />
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The day will start with a 5k run.<br />
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Crafts, horseshoes, a cake walk, music, art, antique car show, kids' games and numerous food vendors will join the celebration.<br />
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Following a brief opening ceremony at 11 a.m., the traditional parade will line Central Avenue (Historic Highway 441) through downtown. <br />
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America's pastime, baseball, will be featured, as well as the memory of a legendary baseball hero, city leaders say.<br />
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Two bands will play this year - The John King Band and Still Cruzin'.<br />
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The day will conclude with a fireworks extravaganza, sponsored by United Community Bank, at dusk.<br />
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"We are proud of this city's heritage, and honor America by hosting these events," Austin said.
