Let’s celebrate our freedom
EDITORIAL -- FEATURE SPOT, Editorials, Opinion
 By  Staff Reports Published 
9:16 am Thursday, June 28, 2018

Let’s celebrate our freedom

Looking for something to do this July 4? Look no further.

We had to take some time this week to share our excitement about Jam on Sloss Lake, set for a week from today in honor of Independence Day.

Sloss Lake in Russellville is the site for this annual free event to celebrate America’s birthday. Coordinated by the City of Russellville along with the water and gas boards, Jam on Sloss Lake ends with a spectacular fireworks show.

The day starts first thing in the morning with the Cotton Flats Cruisers car show and musical entertainment. Bands will continue to provide a soundtrack for the celebration throughout the afternoon – wrapping up with headliner Darryl Worley – leading up to the fireworks show.

The annual Jam is the centerpiece of Fourth of July celebrations in Franklin County, and it has consistently drawn thousands to Russellville to enjoy a tradition of great music and dazzling fireworks.

We want to encourage you to be among those patriotic celebrators.

The City of Russellville works hard every year to pull the day together and put on a celebration we can be proud of. We applaud that spirit of community that drives the event.

From the city council, to the local utility boards, to the fire and police departments, we know everyone works diligently to make it a safe and memorable night for families to enjoy.

July 4, however, isn’t the only opportunity to enjoy community fellowship, pyrotechnics and American pride in Franklin County. We can end the month on a high note with July Fest.

July Fest is set for July 28 in Vina. Hosted by and in support of the Vina Rescue Squad and Vina Fire Department, July Fest features food, music, fireworks, a car show and more. People also love the annual Draw Down, which awards the winner with a $17,000 cash prize or a new car.

Whether you celebrate at the beginning of the month or the end of the month – or both! – we hope you won’t miss these opportunities to appreciate America’s independence, surrounded by your friends and neighbors.

Everyone should come out and enjoy these special events. Come enjoy good food, good music, good fireworks – an all-around good time.

 

Also on Franklin County Times
Vina man may have his bond revoked after messaging a minor
Franklin County, News, Z - News Main
By Kevin Taylor For FCT 
July 30, 2026
RUSSELLVILLE — A Vina man, who was arrested and charged in 2024 with electronic solicitation of a child, could have his bond revoked after allegedly t...
City OKs ‘Women of True Grit’ agreement
A: Main, Franklin County, News, ...
María Camp maria.camp@franklincountytimes.com 
July 29, 2026
REDBAY–The city council has approved a $12,000 agreement with Hand in Hand Entertainment and Promotions for a one-year “Edie Hand: Women of True Grit”...
Fire training center addition triples size
A: Main, Franklin County, News, ...
Bernie Delinski For the FCT 
July 29, 2026
Firefighters from throughout northwest Alabama use the fire rescue training center in Florence to test their skills in realistic drills, participate i...
Allred named state tourism director
News, Z - News Main
July 29, 2026
MONTGOMERY — Gov. Kay Ivey has announced the retirement of Alabama Tourism Director Lee Sentell, appointing Glenda Allred in his place. Former Gov. Bo...
Colbert shelter pays off building loan
News, Z - News Main
By Addi Broadfoot For the FCT 
July 29, 2026
TUSCUMBIA — Nearly 30 years after the Colbert County Animal Shelter borrowed money to build its current facility, the shelter has officially paid off ...
We must recommit to principles of freedom
Columnists, Opinion
July 29, 2026
Alabama’s commemoration of America’s 250th birthday was never intended to be confined to a single event, institution, or location. From the beginning,...
Fairy tale villains face day in court
Columnists, Opinion
HERE AND NOW
July 29, 2026
Once upon a time, the stories told only one side. Now it’s your turn to hear the evidence. As you step inside the courtroom, you’ll see some of your f...
July Fest features food, fun and fireworks
News
By María Camp maria.camp@franklincountyimes.com 
July 29, 2026
VINA — Community members gathered Saturday at the Vina Fire Department for the annual July Fest, enjoying food, vendors, a car show, musical performan...

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *