Athens-Limestone County Week Of Independence

Join us as we celebrate 238 years of our nation’s freedom. This year’s festivities will kick off on Monday, May 30th. Come to the Alabama Veterans’ Museum for a historical display that chronicles our nation’s independence through American flags. Mr. Ron Pettus has been collecting flags for over 50 years and has some amazing pieces, everything from Ronald and Nancy Regan flag slippers to a civil war flag with 34 stars. Mr. Pettus started collecting flags when he was a high school history teacher. He believed that actual artifacts from the time periods being taught would make history come alive for his students. This year, the exhibit will be in the Powers Room at the museum and will be on display from 9:00am – 3:00pm, Monday, June 30th thru Thurs, June 3rd and until 12:00pm on July 4th. Mr. Pettus promises some new flags not seen in his previous collection.

Share your red during the Red, White, and Blue Blood Drive at the LifeSouth Blood Mobile, Wednesday, July 2nd 10:00am – 2:00pm presented by Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association.

Athens fireworks organizers are excited to announce that we will celebrate our annual tradition with the Independence Day Celebration Fireworks Show on Friday July 4th. The excitement will begin at dusk at the Athens High School football field. Parking is available in the school parking lot, Athens Rec Center, Central Church of Christ, and the parking lot across from the school.

Independence Day is a favorite holiday of adults and children alike. For some it is the beautiful colors and loud popping from the fireworks, but for others it is more symbolic. The United States became independent of Great Britain on July 4, 1776 when the Declaration of Independence was approved. We all should remember that this holiday is the result of the valiant efforts and strong commitment of our American forefathers. We are fortunate enough to live in this land of the free, with the privileges other countries envy and some will never have. We should work together to maintain the integrity and values established by our forefathers.

This year, the fireworks show is made possible by the City of Athens, Limestone County Commission and Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association. Bring the entire family and enjoy the show.

Also, just a reminder, due to arena conditions resulting from the recent unusually wet weather, the 3rd Annual Sam Gibbons Memorial Walking Horse show was rescheduled to July 19th, 2014. The show will start at 5:00pm. Sponsorships and program ads are still available for this free event!

For further information on these and other events for the week of Independence, contact the Athens Limestone County Visitors Center at 256-232-5411 or Sandy at the museum, 256-771-7578.
By: Sandra Thompson, Director, Alabama Veterans’ Museum and
Teresa Todd, President, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association