Patriotic Mailboxes Bloom Across Orange Beach in America's 250th Birthday Contest
Sandra Sharpless, Joye Pendley, and Sheranne McMurdo claimed top honors in the community competition
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Orange Beach Garden Club and the City of Orange Beach have announced the winners of the inaugural Great American Mailbox Challenge. The contest invited residents to decorate their mailboxes in honor of the United States and its upcoming 250th birthday. The event was designed to raise awareness of America's semiquincentennial celebration and to encourage residents to show their patriotic spirit throughout the community.
The challenge kicked off on Memorial Day 2026 and accepted entries through Sunday, June 14, 2026—Flag Day. Members of the Orange Beach Garden Club judged the nominated mailboxes shortly after the deadline.
The community's response exceeded expectations. More than 30 mailboxes were officially nominated. Many additional patriotic displays also appeared throughout the city after the deadline passed.
All three winning entries came from the East Orange Beach neighborhood. The colorful decorations beautified neighborhoods across Orange Beach while highlighting community pride and love of country.
Sandra Sharpless claimed first place for her entry, "Celebration of Freedom." She received $76 from the Orange Beach Garden Club, a City of Orange Beach goodie bag, and a sign placed at her mailbox.
Joye Pendley took second place with a display titled "Classic 4th of July." She received $50 from the Orange Beach Garden Club, a goodie bag from the city, and a sign for her mailbox.
Sheranne McMurdo earned third place for her entry, "Yankee Doodle Dandy Dog." She received $25 from the Orange Beach Garden Club, along with a city goodie bag and a sign at her mailbox.
Orange Beach Garden Club President Sandra Reed praised the turnout and the spirit shown by participants throughout the city.
"We congratulate all of the participants and those who submitted nominations," Reed said. "The enthusiasm shown by residents made this inaugural event a tremendous success and contributed to the beautification of our city."
The Orange Beach Garden Club and the City of Orange Beach thanked everyone who helped make the Great American Mailbox Challenge a memorable community event. Orange Beach is joining communities across the nation to celebrate America's 250th Birthday this year.
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