Belated ‘Blast’ still a draw

Republic’s annual Fourth of July celebration goes off in September without a hitch
 
The city of Republic held their 24th Annual Have-A-Blast Patriotic Celebration at J.R. Martin Park on Saturday, Sept. 5. The evening featured a three-hour concert by 80s tribute band Members Only, followed by a fireworks display. The celebration was originally scheduled for the Fourth of July, but was postponed due to the COVID pandemic. Jared Keeling, Parks and Recreation Director, said he was uncertain as to how many people attended the event this year, but speculated attendance might have been slightly down due to some activities being eliminated to create additional space for social distancing.
“Regardless,” he said, “it was a spectacular evening and we were thrilled to continue on with Have-A-Blast during a challenging year. Thanks to all those in attendance and we look forward to the 25th anniversary of Have-A-Blast in 2021.