A great Fourth

Despite the heat that kept many area residents close to their air conditioners, Fourth of July events in Cape Girardeau and Jackson were well-attended this year. Overall, more than 5,000 people turned out for Sunday events in both cities, concluding with fireworks displays.

In Cape Girardeau, there was a full weekend of holiday activities starting on Friday. Some of the early events had fewer spectators than had been hoped for, but the demolition derby on Sunday night filled the grandstand at Arena Park.

Because the derby went longer than scheduled, the Cape Girardeau fireworks were delayed until almost 10:30 p.m. But in spite of the wait, most everyone who saw the night sky filled with bursts of colorful explosions said it was the best display ever.

The Cape Girardeau festivities, all at Arena Park, were organized by U.S.A. Veterans. Commander Rodger Brown said the weekend met the goal of providing activities geared to the holiday that the whole family could enjoy.

Brown pledged that U.S.A. Veterans would be having another Fourth of July weekend next year, perhaps adding a day of events. This year's celebration showed there is a good foundation to build on for future holiday extravaganzas.