Independence Day revelry extended one more afternoon in Newton Grove as the town hosted its traditional July Fourth celebration Sunday in Weeks Park.
The afternoon kicked off with 11 adorable young ladies vying for titles in the Little Miss Fourth of July pageant. The tiny contestants paraded across the stage in patriotic red, white and blue outfits, charming audience members and receiving cheers of approval.
Preslee Roesch, 9, daughter of Terra and Jamie Roesch, was crowned Little Miss Fourth of July. Peyton Brooke Phillips, 6, daughter of Fonzie and Wendy Phillips, won the crown of Tiny Miss Fourth of July, and Aubree John McLamb, 5, daughter of John and Kelly McLamb, was named Petite Miss Fourth of July.
Across the park, Cherry Point’s Second Marine Aircraft Wing Band, in their crisp Blue Dress uniforms, performed a selection of familiar patriotic music under the shade of the trees. 
Children gathered around Carlton Smith, better known as “Balloon Man Smitty,” making his balloon creations and sharing a string of humorous one-liners. With their sculpted swords or superheroes firmly grasped, the youngsters scampered off to finish snow cones or romp in the inflatables.
Later in the afternoon, The Switch Band wowed the crowd with their performance of classic rock, current top 40 hits and beach music. “They are coming back next year — we’ve already asked them!” said Deputy Town Clerk Betty Bass.
Approaching storms held off just long enough for the highlight of the day — the fireworks show. “It was amazing — it was a wonderful day. I don’t think it could have been any better,” added Ms. Bass.
Story courtesy The Daily Record
