This July 4 ushered in the 225th year of what has been described as an "experiment in democracy.

Thursday, July 05, 2001

This July 4 ushered in the 225th year of what has been described as an "experiment in democracy." Over the last few days, thousands from the Tri-State helped celebrate our country’s birthday.

Since the fireworks show in Coal Grove on Tuesday, the night sky has been alive with color as residents joined together to celebrate Independence Day.

This week was also full of activities from Coal Grove’s Fun Days to the Summer Motion fest in Ashland, Ky.

The Coal Grove activities were a success, said Juanita Markel, a member of the Betterment Club of the village.

"We are very pleased with the turnout," she said, adding the fireworks show was also a hit with residents. "There was a crowd everywhere you looked."

She said the group is already looking forward to next year’s event. She said, "we always look forward to the next year…planning has already begun."

Pictured at left are samplings from the fireworks shows at Coal Grove and Ashland.