BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
INEZ — This year’s Independence Day celebration in Inez was marked by a vibrant parade, delightful food, lively music and fun-filled activities, culminating in a spectacular fireworks finale. The action-packed block party at the Martin County Public Library Collier Center was, according to organizers, the biggest and most successful ever.
The grand fireworks display by the Inez Volunteer Fire Department was the icing on the cake, drawing a significant crowd.
“The whole thing wouldn’t be there if the fire department didn’t have that wonderful fireworks show,” shared the library board chairman Donnie Osborn.
Indeed, the town’s festive spirit was palpable, with people lining the streets to watch the parade, which kicked off the block party. An even bigger crowd was on hand later for the fireworks display.
While most of the spectators were spread throughout the town, Osborne estimated 500 watched from the library’s parking lot.
“The number of vendors this year has also outdone previous celebrations. We had around 18 vendors, all reporting a better performance this year, likely due to the bigger crowd,” said Osborn.
Amid the celebration, local musician Jack Ward and his band, The Postman, created a buzz with an engaging performance.
“Jack Ward did a wonderful job with the band,” complimented Osborn.
Adding an interactive touch to the block party, the library hosted three unique programs. One of the kids’ favorites was a collaborative art project where attendees painted rocks to form a snake named Izzy.
“The rocks will be placed around the Collier Center. As children read books this year, they will get to paint a rock,” Osborn explained.
The adults were not left out of the fun, with a bookmark station available for them to create personalized bookmarks using a metal stamping kit and bent spoons.
For the young ones, an open free Lego play station was another hit.
Watermelon-eating contests sponsored by Martin County Sheriff John Kirk were a highlight. Jeremiah Delong, 12, of Tomahawk, won the age 13 and under contest. Eric Mills of Inez won the contest for ages 13 and up. Each received a $20 bill.
