Heat slows down carnival crowd

AMENIA — The Amenia Fire Company held its 85th annual carnival and parade from Wednesday, July 4, through Saturday, July 7.Andy Murphy, rescue squad lieutenant and carnival committee member, was happy for the support despite a smaller turnout.“I definitely think the heat worked against us,” he said, adding that the heat that week had peaked in the mid-90s, much higher than average early July temperatures. “That and people just don’t have the money to spend on going out right now. Regardless, we had a good showing on Wednesday night. Thursday it died off a bit and Friday was great. Everyone came out for the parade.”Murphy noted that only one person needed medical attention due to the heat.“We were lucky to have the support of the Millerton ambulance to help us with heat-related issues,” he said.A total of 23 fire departments and companies turned out on Friday, July 6, to march north up Route 22 and then east on Route 343 to the carnival on Mechanic Street.“There was so much candy being handed out. The kids had a great time. We also got a lot of support from local organizations who marched with us. I think the community really had a great time,” he said.While attendance was low at the carnival, the fire company still found success with its raffles and fundraising opportunities.“I think overall we did well. It was definitely down from last year but we appreciate all the support the community gives us,” he said.Saturday saw an increase in traffic as many ventured to the carnival before and after the annual fireworks show.“They were amazing this year. The best I’ve ever seen. Some people even commented to me that we gave the Lime Rock [race track] show a run for their money. I think it lasted around 23 minutes, and they just kept coming one after the other. It was constant entertainment. The grand finale blew a lot of people away,” he said.The Amenia Fire Company is thankful not only to its supporters but also to its neighbors.“Our neighbors put up with a parking nightmare. They could make it really difficult for us by closing off lots, but they don’t. They work with us and are very accommodating. We couldn’t do it without them,” he said.

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