Heat doesn’t slow Emmet July 4 celebration

EMMET – Saturday was a busy day in Emmet as the Emmet Vision Association (EVA) hosted the 2nd Annual July 4 Fireworks show.

According to Deanna Allen, 15 volunteers arrived to set things up and got the job done in three hours, in plenty of time before vendors began showing up. There were around a dozen different vendors, mostly selling food and cold drinks, though there were some with jewelry and Rada cutlery as well, along with a 50-50 raffle. Bounce houses were available for those wanting to try them out, but the heat kept the crowd looking for shade more than anything. The Emmet Volunteer Fire Department grilled hamburgers and hot dogs, finding a shady spot to set up the grill.

A regular breeze helped diffuse the heat as few wanted to be out and about in the sun. The tents were filled, as were shady areas on the grounds of the former Emmet school. Many waited until later to arrive in an attempt to beat the heat, showing up shortly before the fireworks were set off. There were few entries for the parade or patriotic costume contest, but those participating enjoyed themselves.

The band, Patchwork Revival, from Texarkana, kept the crowd entertained until dusk when the fireworks were set off.