We managed to snap about a hundred pictures of a parade of children and their parents circulating down South Main at about 10:30 a.m. on Fourth of July Eve. They crossed at South Main and East Third, then marched north, led by parade Grand Marshal Devion Allen.

The parade was organized by Hope Downtown Network and is the latest of our two-county coverage area's celebration of America's 250th July 4th celebration.

It ushers in a day of sidewalk sales and bargains at stores in Hope's Downtown. On 201 East Third up to 2:00 p.m. come get your free snow cone from Sweet Escape food truck.

In Blevins, near the school complex, and in Emmet, south of Fireman's Park, the three-day run of fireworks displays continue.

Sparks Fly in July takes place Saturday evening July 4th with gates opening at the Hope Municipal Airport at 5:00 p.m.