Blue Ridge Kiwanians Becky Callihan, left, and Sherry Morris stop passing out necklaces for a quick photo during the Old Timers’ Parade. The event was held Saturday morning, July 3, in downtown Blue Ridge as the annual celebration of America’s Independence kicked off. The parade was sponsored by the Blue Ridge Business Association. Don’t miss next week’s edition of The News Observer for more pictures from the parade and many other celebration activities.