Painting downtowns red, white and blue

RUSSELLVILLE — Ahead of the celebration for the 250th anniversary of America’s independence on Saturday, officials are decorating and pulling out all the stops for the semiquincentennial.

Peradirectivefromboth the United States General Services Administration and Gov. Kay Ivey’s office, courthouses and municipal buildings across the state have been encouraged to decorate for the momentous occasion.

Spearheaded by Franklin County Probate Judge Barry Moore, the Franklin County Courthouse has five banners depicting the American flag now hanging in the gaps of the facade.

In May, Ivey signed a resolution declaring July 1 through July 8 as “Light to Unite” week, which urged Alabamians to show their patriotism through a variety of ways.

Ivey also called on government officials to drape their respective buildings in red, white and blue and also to display the Stars and Stripes.

“This July 4 marks a very special and historic anniversary for our Republic and the cause of liberty,” Ivey said via a press release. “We celebrate 250 years since the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and the birth of our great country. All Alabamians are encouraged to unite in the celebration of America by lighting up their homes and communities to reflect the grand colors of our flag.”

Red, white and blue displays are also appearing across northwest Alabama as businesses, cities, towns and residents prepare to celebrate Independence Day and the nation’s 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

The patriotic displays reflect the efforts of area residents to honor the country’s history while bringing the community together.

Downtown, Russellville florist Chase Sparks decorate the windows of his shop with an oversized birthday cake marked “250,” Betsy Ross-inspired flags and patriotic bunting.

“You can tell by looking at the outside of the store that we planned everything around the 250th,” Sparks said. “From the Betsy Ross-inspired flags to the oversized cake in the window with 250 on it, we are ready for the celebration.”

While Sparks decorates the business throughout the year for changing seasons and holidays, he said there was never any question about this summer’s theme.

“This is truly a time to celebrate and although I’m very patriotic all the time, what better way to celebrate the 250th than going all out with red, white and blue.”

Lexington Mayor Russell Haddock said patriotism has always been an important part of Lexington’s identity. As the nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, he said it is an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices that made America’s freedoms possible.

CONTRIBUTED/SUSIE HOVATER MALONE 
Russellville Florist owner and operator Chase Sparks decorated his storefront to celebrate Independence Day and the 250th anniversary of the country.

“If it was not for our patriots, we would not be afforded the opportunity to do what we do,” Haddock said. “Our freedoms rely on the sacrifices of past and present patriots each and every day.”

While he now serves as mayor, Haddock proudly served in the United States Air Force for 11 years. Haddock said he served during operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm.

Haddock said seeing businesses show their support so publicly has made him feel proud, not only as a veteran, but as a resident. He said Lexington was built by generations of families who invested in the community and worked to make it a better place. That spirit continues today through local businesses, churches, schools and civic organizations.

He said the Spirit of Freedom celebration is about more than a single event. It is an opportunity for neighbors to gather, strengthen community ties and celebrate the values that unite them.

“We’re trying to bring people out and let them see we’re one family,” Haddock said.

Patriotic displays can already be seen at businesses throughout town, including First Metro Bank and Preston’s Restaurant.

First Metro Bank Branch Manager Tara Nava said the nation’s 250th anniversary provides a chance to recognize the freedoms Americans enjoy and the importance of community pride.

“It shows you have pride and an appreciation for the freedom we have,” Nava said.

AtPreston’sRestaurant, co-owner Melanie Preston said patriotism is something worth celebrating every year, but the upcoming semiquincentennial gives the occasion added significance.

“We are patriots for the country every day,” Preston said. “But I think this year, being the 250th year celebration of our country, has made patriotism even more important.”

Preston said the anniversary offers an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s history while also appreciating the role small towns play in keeping community traditions alive.

“I think it may shed some light on the town and open people’s eyes that even small towns can be great too,” she said.

Brady Petree and María Camp contributed to this report.