Reliance Bank Fire Cracker Festival set for Saturday

By Kelly Kazek
kelly@athensnews-courier.com

July 01, 2009 08:59 pm

— The annual Reliance Bank Fire Cracker Festival promises fun for the entire family, culminating in a display of awww-inspiring fireworks.
Beginning at 3 p.m. Saturday with activities outside Athens High School stadium, residents can enjoy music from local bands, food, inflatables and pony rides. Bring lawn chairs to enjoy the concerts.
The schedule is:
• 5:30 p.m.: The Shakes
• 6:30 p.m.: The Flying Dutchmen
• 7:30 p.m.: The Dixie Bluegrass Band
Just before dusk, crowds will fill the stadium, where the fireworks show is set to begin.
“The moment the first firecracker goes up a flood of emotion comes over you,” said Brooke Burns, festival coordinator. “You think back to the reason we are able to enjoy this freedom and it is overwhelming.”
Proceeds from the Reliance Bank Fire Cracker Festival go to area schools and the Alabama Veterans Museum and Archives.
The Reliance Bank Firecracker Festival celebrates freedom and love of country, said Allison Phillips with Reliance Bank. “We all enjoy watching the fireworks light up the night sky and get a sense of great satisfaction knowing we had a part in giving something back to the community. It is a wonderful way to celebrate the Fourth with family and friends,” she said.
Reliance Bank is committed to being an active partner with the Limestone County community, said bank CEO David Kinchler.
“Hosting the Reliance Bank Fire Cracker Festival over the past seven years is one way our bank gives back to the community we serve,” he said. “This event honors those veterans that we have lost and thanks those soldiers who have served or are currently serving in the military. The Reliance Bank Fire Cracker Festival is a great way to spend your Fourth of July afternoon and evening.”