Plains celebrates President Carter’s 100th birthday

PLAINS Ga. (WALB) - The small city of Plains, GA., was buzzing on Saturday morning. Patrons gathered in the downtown area to celebrate the two things that Plains is best known for: peanuts and President Jimmy Carter.

Although the former President could not attend the festivities, Plains, Georgia wanted to celebrate the man who has done so much for their city.

“Jimmy Carter means a lot to the U.S., and Georgia, and Plains. He’s just a great guy. I’ve gotten to know him over the years. Seen him dance in the street, right over there. He’s a good guy and was a fine president,” said Bill McGowan, former Mayor of Americus.

The 2024 Plains Peanut Festival kicked off at 8 a.m. with a 5K race. At 11a.m., the downtown area was packed as visitors secured a seat to watch the parade honoring President Carter.

“The parade was one of the biggest we’ve ever had. We had some good units and we are honoring President Carter. We all sang happy birthday to him. He’s gonna be 100-years-old, and that is great. He says if you eat peanuts and peanut butter, you’re gonna live to be just like he is today,” said Tyron Spearman, the Executive Director of the National Peanut Buying Points Association.

South Georgians and residents of Plains are extremely proud of their homegrown President.

“I know first hand that he has been instrumental in bringing business here. He’s been instrumental in bringing world attention to plains and southwest Georgia. It is immeasurable on terms of the benefit that he has derived just by his very voice and presence,” said Wayne Johnson, a candidate for United States Congress.

President Jimmy Carter will turn 100-years-old on Tuesday, Oct. 1.

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