Fire department celebrates successful Dayton Daze
Officials say that this year’s Dayton Daze, which was held for the 29th year on Saturday, Sept. 9, was the best year to date for the fundraising celebration. (Photo courtesy of the Cliff Chief Volunteer Fire Department)
There were no floats in this year’s Dayton Daze parade, but participants were still able to take place in the procession. (Photo courtesy of the Chief Cliff Volunteer Fire Department)
Although smoke lingered over the weekend, a county fair atmosphere permeated the air at the 26th annual Dayton Daze celebration on Saturday, Sept. 9.
Turnout was better than expected with hundreds attending the celebration.
A car show started at 10 a.m. where the big winner, with the Best 50’s vehicle, was Bill Hutchison and his 1958 Dodge.
The fire department had free hot dogs and cookies, along with beverages and frozen treats. Beer was also available for purchase this year, and it was donated by Tamarack Brewing.
Throughout the day there were mini-raffles, a silent auction, kids’ games and live music by Larry Myers. There were no floats in this year’s parade, but there were still plenty of entries.
Prizes were awarded to Great Scots for Judges’ Favorite; a 1951 Mercury for Vehicle; Isabelle and Eve Learn with Twilight, the pony for Horse; Kaydee and Vanessa Wheeler with their dogs for Children; and the Chief Cliff Volunteer Fire Department with their newly restored 1956 Power Wagon for Best Organization.
Cash prizes were awarded to Rhonda Walter and Doug Schultz for Best Costumes.
David and Cynthia Waterman of Big Arm won a Henry .44-70 lever action carbine.
Following the parade, the firefighters participated in relay races with the kids.
The Chief Cliff VFD sought to raise enough to purchase a thermal imager for the department and a vital signs monitor with any additional monies going toward enhanced communications.
A final monetary total was not yet confirmed Tuesday morning.