Summer’s Last Blast plans taking shape
Daniel Walker
Vernon Record
The Vernon City Commission moved forward on finalizing plans for the 30th annual Summer’s Last Blast, set for Aug. 9 and 10.
The commission heard from Jay Young, owner of Rusty Spur, as part of a special meeting Tuesday night. Young said he would like to have an outdoor street dance after the cruise on Saturday, from 9 p.m. to midnight.
He said they had a couple of good bands lined up, Sarah and the Dreamers – winner of Vernon’s battle of the bands – as the opener, followed by regional favorite Under the Influence. He said there would be three private security guards in attendance, and he welcomed police presence as well.
“We’d love to local cops there. They are welcome in my place anytime,” he said.
He said that he was furnishing meat to the local firefighters association to cook and sell as a fundraiser. He said that he would have 10 tables available to rent, with proceeds going to the Boys & Girls Club.
Commissioner Justin Marsh asked where the stage would be. Young said pretty close to Edward Jones building.
Marsh also asked about parking. Young said parking was available at the pharmacy/clinic next door. Marsh said he just would like for Young to clear that with the pharmacy owner first.
Commissioner Pam Gosline made a motion to approve the request and it was accepted.
Jim Gryseels, with VSMCA, presented the request for this year’s Summer’s Last Blast.
Gryseels asked, as VSMCA has each year, for the city to approve blocking all side streets on Wilbarger, except those with controlled lights, from 7 to 9:30 p.m. for the cruise. In addition, they requested the blockage for Cumberland Street from 9:30 to 11:59 p.m. on Saturday for an after the cruise concert venue.
“Is this exactly what we did last year?” commissioner Don Aydelott asked. Gryseels said yes.
He also asked for the closure of Laurie Street on Friday for the burnout. City manager Marty Mangum asked if there were not going to be dragsters this year. Gryseels confirmed no dragsters would be there.
Marsh made a motion to approve the request and it unanimously approved.
“Let’s have a good Summer’s Last Blast,” Mayor Doug Jeffrey added.