It’s the American Way
A big hello to my fellow American gals and guys! The 4th of July is upon us (YAY!) and Miss Melanie is back to give you guidance on how to enjoy the holiday festivities.
In my humble opinion, a proper celebration of the 4th must include Old Glory, fireworks and delicious food and beverage. It’s the American way, right?
You can purchase a flag almost anywhere. We bought our last 3 at our local Home Depot. They have an array of sizes available for purchase. Trust me…I am there A LOT. We keep a flag flying all year and I know firsthand that Georgia weather can be tough on the stars and stripes, so just keep in mind proper flag etiquette and disposal when your flag needs to be retired.
Fireworks are abundant on and around the 4th (shout out to my neighbors who lit them last night!) but I am going to make it easy for you to find your perfect spot for patriotic pyrotechnics! Sandy Springs starts the festivities early with Stars and Stripes Fireworks Celebration on July 2 beginning at 7pm. Just head to the King and Queen buildings and you will find them!
Roswell has its annual Fireworks Extravaganza at Roswell High School beginning at 5:30 p.m. There are activities for children, food trucks and live entertainment including local favorites 120 East and Banks and Shane. For the early birds, or pre-gamers, you can check out Barrington Hall (one of my favorite places) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for the 3rd Annual BBQ and Bluegrass. In Alpharetta you can hit up Festivities and Fireworks at Wills Park. They will have fun activities for the kiddos, food trucks (cash only) and entertainment from Alpharetta City Band and the local T James Band. Fireworks may be delayed due to weather but will be shot rain or shine. ‘Merica!
If you want to head to the new ballpark, you can catch the Braves vs. Astros at 7:35 p.m. on July 4th. There will be a pre-game ceremony focusing on the Declaration of Independence and a 13-gun salute. You can also see a few hometown heroes and fireworks after the game. If I have missed your locale, you can find a list of fireworks and celebrations around Metro Atlanta here.
Now, if you will excuse me while I step onto my tiny soapbox. Not to be a party pooper, but surely, we all know that the 4th of July is a time when the police are out in FULL FORCE looking for impaired drivers. Trust me, I know that not every person stopped, arrested, or charged with a DUI are in fact, guilty. I see it every day! But…I can be a bit of a Nervous Nelly Especially when Gainesville PD as well as the police force around the Golden Isles have already announced a Zero Tolerance campaign for the holiday. Be safe and plan ahead! Here’s an insider tip: AAA is offering free rides and SafeRide America has a special for 30% off rides with code SAFESUMMER.
If things go awry, never fret! I am here for you. If you find yourself wrongly arrested over the 4th of July holiday call ME. I will drop my burger, or hotdog, or BBQ to help you. I am available 24/7 to take your call.
As always, have fun and be safe! And God Bless the USA!
Melanie Ellwanger is a North Georgia DUI and Criminal Defense Attorney. She is a former prosecuting attorney and judicial candidate. She has been ranked as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers magazine 2013-2017. melanie@hiremelaw.com
DISCLAIMER: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice.