By: Shayla Terry

As the nation turned 241, Crenshaw county residents gathered all around to celebrate in the grand event. Luverne kicked off the festivities with a fireworks show that drew hundreds. As the sun fell on July 2, Turner Park and surrounded areas were lined with automobiles filled with people awaiting the sparks. “It was a great time,” said Karine Dickens. “It was great to see the whole community gather, and the kids have a great time.”

The pyrotechnics light the Luverne skyline, and just in the nick of time before inclement weather approached. Attendees received many minutes of mega burst for a price tag of zero dollars.

In Brantley, a small parade was held to commemorate the day. Residents of the town were welcome to join in the fun in whatever way they could, and many did.  The parade went from the Brantley schools to downtown and back around. People gathered on their vehicle and from their front porches to see the celebration. Mayor Bernie Sullivan led the parade, and the Brantley Volunteer Fire Deparement brough up the rear.

Rutledge hosted its 9th annual Independence Day celebration at their town hall. Festivities, large in size for the small town, pulled in people from all over the county with roots in Rutledge. “It turned out much larger than I imagined,” said Rutledge mayor Steve Phillips. “My wife, Shanon, worked so hard to ensure that everything was great, and it surely was.”

The day kicked off with a parade around the town’s center, led by Crenshaw County sheriff Mickey Powell. With over 30 participants, all had fun. Rutledge held a feast in the town center that included watermelon, hot dogs, Cracker Jacks and American-flagged cupcakes. A cannon show was put on by the Son of Confederate Veterans for all to see.

“We’re so happy to do this for our community,” Phillips said. “We hope it continues to grow.”

Rutledges festivities were sponsored by Ramey’s, SuperFood Depot, Luverne Cash & Carry and Rhodes Grocery. Particpants for the day included the Crenshaw County sheriff’s office, Crenshaw Community Baptist Church, Sons of Confederate Veterans, Clanton Batter, Luverne Rescue Squad, the town of Rutledge fire department and the first lady of Rutledge.