Firefighters credit community with the success of the annual fireworks event at the fairgrounds

By Steve Moyer

Nevada Daily Mail

Nevada Firefighters Local 3031 once again put on Nevada's premier Fourth of July performance at the Vernon County Fairgrounds. The 13th annual fireworks display benefited from cool breezes, warm crowds and cold watermelon. As usual there was no charge for admittance to the event and the watermelon was free as well. All the firefighters asked was a donation to help cover the cost of the event. "We really enjoy doing this," Bill Thornton, Nevada Fire Department, said. "This is a safe way for people to enjoy fireworks, and we're right here where we might be needed."

While the evening was a success, it didn't go off without a hitch. It was discovered that the bathroom lights couldn't be turned on, the panel with the switch was locked and the key couldn't be located. It took several minutes but the firefighters were up to the task, they used a tool to cut through the shackle of the lock to open the panel and light the bathrooms.

A mobile disc jockey played a mix of country and rock music to help pass the time while patrons enjoyed the free watermelon. Concessions were provided by the Osage River Baptist Association at the Lion's Club concession stand.

Thornton was quick to point out that the firefighters weren't alone in making the event possible and said the members really appreciated the help, and financial support, local businesses and organizations provided.

"We couldn't do this without their help," Thornton said.

Thornton said special thanks went to the Vernon County Commissioners and the Vernon County Fair Board for the use of county facilities; the Nevada Fire Department, Police Department and the Nevada City Council for the use of city equipment, facilities and personnel; The Nevada News, the Nevada Daily Mail and Moss Trust for their continued support.