Rain doesn't dampen spirits at celebration

Courtsey of Hattiesburg American/July 5, 2007
Rain showers seemed to only add to the excitement in Lucedale as large crowds gathered in the former Wal-Mart and Wayne Lee's parking lots for the annual Fourth of July celebrations and fireworks display Wednesday.
Barbecue grills and smokers cooked up family favorites as local politicians made their way through the crowds waving signs and shaking hands.
Sherry Cooley and her supporters walked through the crowd, waving signs asking the voters to consider her for the George County Circuit Clerk's post.
Cooley said that even with the rain, the festive spirit of the day was strong as the crowds grew and the day's entertainment began.
"It's just about being here, visiting with everybody and having a great time. It's part of who we are in George County, supporting each other and spending time with our family and friends," Cooley said.
Cammie Byrd, incumbent for George County Chancery Clerk, shared hot dogs, sausage and drinks with the crowd as she visited with family, friends and supporters, as well as making a point to visit with voters she has not had the opportunity to see during this political season.
"Today is great, because I get to see and visit with so many people that I would not otherwise get to see," Byrd said, "not just to ask for their support; but just to see them, visit... and have a good time."
Byrd said Independence Day is special and too often taken for granted.
"It is about our freedom. The freedom I have to speak here today. The freedom to vote. The freedom we too often take for granted."