Heather Ainsley
ECB Publishing, Inc.
On Saturday, Aug. 12, the Monticello Merchants hosted yet another Second Saturday event, celebrating the best of Monticello vendors and small businesses in the downtown area. With summer heat advisories a regular occurrence, it was a challenge to find ways of beating the heat. With July's Second Saturday showing limited attendance due to the stifling temperatures outside, the Merchants knew they'd have to think of something to help keep participants cool.
What better way to cool things down than the addition of water elements to the regular Second Saturday festivities? The usual bounce house fun jump was replaced with an inflatable water bounce slide, and the presence of kiddie water pools and sandcastle pools added a refreshing element for kids and grown-ups alike. Members of the Monticello community as well as visitors from neighboring areas had a splash of fun on Dogwood street while others browsed the air-conditioned shops, enjoying great local specials and shopping deals.
There were plenty of vendors set up despite the heat, including those selling cotton-candy, snow cones, ice cream, and of course, local art and crafts. Vendors set up along the sides of the streets, and sold their wares to customers passing through. Participating businesses collected donations for school supplies that were then donated to nearby schools and organizations for distribution.
September Second Saturday is also looking to be on the warm side, so the water bounce slide and kiddie pools will still be included. Patti Lyke, who serves as Volunteer Coordinator, requests that anyone wishing to use the water elements please wear “water clothing.” Parents should ensure that their children are wearing the appropriate water attire before allowing them to enter the bounce house.
For anyone wishing to help out with this event as a volunteer, contact Patti at (315) 224-6114. All local (Jefferson County) vendors are welcome to attend, free of charge, and set up shop to sell their items. Anyone wishing to become a vendor, contact Vendor Coordinator Crystal at (850) 518-5497.
You must be logged in to post a comment.