Celebration off to a sizzling start

    Thrill rides.  Corn dogs.  The merry-go-round.  Funnel cakes.  Bingo.  Tests of skill and strength.
    There’s something for everyone at Clear Lake’s huge Fourth of July celebration this week.
    Evans United Shows opened its annual carnival Friday night and will run for seven days.  Owner Tom Evans said coming to Clear Lake is always a highlight for the group, as they enjoy seeing friends and appreciate the special touches the Clear

Lake community provides each year.  Evans has been providing the centerpiece to the Clear Lake holiday celebration for more than three decades.
    “We’ve got some new things for people this year-- a new House of Mirrors and Bungee Jump,” he said.   “The park is full.”  Also back after a few years away is a rock climbing wall.
    The carnival has gotten off to a steady start, although Evans said the heat can keep the public indoors, rather than in the park.  Temperatures have been in the 90’s since the carnival opened Friday and are predicted to remain at that level.  By Monday a breeze had picked up which kept the shady park comfortable and attractive to many who took advantage of the second Wristband Day of the carnival.  A third Wristband Day, during which you can ride all the rides for one price between noon and 5 p.m., is scheduled for Thursday, July 5.
    Chamber of Commerce officials said the celebration got off to a great start and are seeing crowds continue to grow.  Monday afternoon a good size audience enjoyed the 34th Army Band-Iowa National Guard. 
    “It’s always a challenge when the holiday falls mid-week to keep offering exceptional opportunities for the public, but we believe we’ve done it this year with groups like the Army Band and other free entertainment each night,” said Alice Hanley, Chamber of Commerce - Read More Via e-Edition