As Fourth of July celebrations go, ours was pretty special this year. It had been a tough week for the citizens of Greene County. Last Friday night’s wind storm caused so much damage to the electrical grid that many didn’t have power by Wednesday and according to this morning’s news, are still without power today. This past week has been dangerously hot and for many of the folks living out in the “hollers” no power means no water as well.
Independence Day was fore-casted to be another hot one, with temperatures climbing close to 100 degrees. Despite the heat, both sides of the parade route in downtown Standardsville were lined with celebrators dressed in red, white and blue.
The parade was modest; consisting mostly of local fire and rescue squads, the sheriff’s office, service groups like the scouts and Ruritan, antique cars and tractors and an assortment of “Misses'” riding in convertibles. Most “floats” tossed candy out to the little ones lining the curbs while one smart group offered popsicles and I gladly accepted! Sadly there were no bands. I spoke to Donna Richardson, one of the parade organizers and she said they’re working on it for next year.
Following the parade, the crowd was invited to join the VFW on the Greene County courthouse lawn for the raising of the flag and pledge. There, on the tiny lawn lined by a white picket fence decorated with red, white and blue bunting, the festivities continued. Both political parties had booths offering refreshment; the Republicans handed out slices of watermelon while the Democrats offered cold bottles of water along with their various bumper stickers, lawn signs and other campaign paraphernalia for the November election. A portable stage sat at the far edge where the Green County Singers entertained the crowd with a selection of patriotic songs including a medley of the armed service hymns. I have to admit that I still get goose bumps when I hear “Anchors Aweigh!”
The festivities concluded with the ringing of the courthouse bells. It was a loud, deep bell, that I’m certain has been atop that building for more than one hundred and fifty years. As it rang out, those who were veterans of these celebrations rang hand bells they’d brought with them. Daytime fireworks were shot off from the back field as the bells rang. The bells and the booms were a wonderful reminder of the freedom we enjoy was Americans, the unity we feel in pride of our nation whatever our political beliefs and the cost of that freedom. Yes, it was a modest celebration, but so very rich in the essence of American tradition. Being there and experiencing this simple grassroots event was so very special. I can’t wait for next year!