Roberts Ave. Nabs Top Float in Haddonfield July 4 Parade, Again

Mary Previte said she went door to door Thursday handing out first-place, blue ribbons to just about every address on her cozy borough street.

It was a ritual the locals are used to. Previte, 81, a former state Assembly member and longtime resident of Roberts Avenue said she can't remember how many times her block has won the best float competition, but she has a refrigerator door full of blue ribbons from past victories.

This year's float had a theme honoring the One Mile Tavern, 1713 - 1873. It echoed the theme of the borough's 300th anniversary this year. The barkeep was none other than former mayor Tish Colombi, dressed in her traditional red outfit.

A block party followed after the parade. Games for all ages were featured including tug of war and an egg toss with boiled and uncooked eggs that could offer a surprise to anyone who dropped one. There was also plenty of barbecue for anyone who wandered by.