Mike and Paulette Roberts of Unity have been chosen as the Grand marshals of the West Union Fourth of July parade.
Mike and Paulette Roberts of Unity have been chosen as the Grand marshals of the West Union Fourth of July parade.

Annual Freedom Festival fireworks display will be July 2

By Patricia Beech –

The West Union Lion’s Club has selected Mike and Paulette Roberts of  Unity to be the Grand Marshals for the annual July 4 Independence Day Parade in  West Union.
“We’re both very honored to be chosen as Grand Marshals for this  wonderful parade,” the couple said. “We’ve watched the parade from  the sidewalk for many years, so we’re tickled to be taking part in it  this year.”
The Roberts moved to the Unity area in 2005 and soon after became  advocates of the arts in Adams County. They are active participants in  the Adams County Arts Council and the Adams County theater company.
“Throughout their time here, Mike and Paulette have generously  contributed to the community and we are pleased to recognize these  outstanding citizens and honor their noteworthy accomplishments,” said  Stephen Caraway of the West Union Lion’s Club.
“They have helped  revitalize the Adams County Arts Council and have brought much joy and  laughter in their roles in several local theatrical productions.”
Mike was born in Cincinnati and graduated from Milford High School in  1951 and from Dartmouth College in 1955. He served in the US Air Force  as a jet fighter pilot. Following his honorable discharge, he obtained  a law degree and was admitted into the Ohio Bar in 1961. He  subsequently became a partner in one of Ohio’s largest firms where he  specialized in products litigation.
Paulette Roberts was born in  Bellevue, Ky. and moved to Washington Court House during her seventh  grade school year.  She graduated high school in 1962 and attended  Wilmington College. After working various positions in personnel, she  finished her career as the National Employment Manager for Great  American Insurance Company in Cincinnati.
Mike and Paulette married in 1981 and quit their corporate jobs to move to  West Virginia for the scenic beauty and country living. In addition to  operating a working farm, they were also heavily involved in the local  arts, starting both an arts council and theater group.
The D. Michael Roberts Auditorium in Franklin, West Va. was named  in Mike’s honor to recognize his  contributions to the local arts.
The July 4 parade in West Union will begin at 10 a.m. with line-up beginning at 9  a.m.
“We encourage businesses and civic groups to participate with an  entry into the parade, or show your support by attending one of West  Union’s longest running traditions,” said Caraway.
The Lion’s Club will again co-sponsor the Annual Freedom Festival with  a fireworks display at the Adams County Fairgrounds on July 2.
If you have questions about the parade, please contact the Lion’s Club at 937-205-2708.