Mesquite Showgirls Linda Gault and Maggie Calhoun sport some patriotic head gear as they meet and greet the visitors to the Rockets of the Red Mesa Fourth of July festivities. Photo by Teri Nehrenz

Independence Day in Mesquite began with a multitude of family and friends gathering for individual BBQ’s as evidenced by the aromas wafting over the city. You could easily catch a whiff of steaks searing on the grill in several neighborhoods, if you happened to venture out in the blistering heat.

Some prime parking gave spectators an up close and personal view of the fireworks without having to venture away from their car. Photo by Teri Nehrenz

Not many residents and visitors ventured out before sunset as the blistering heat kept many away; even the vendor village was a bit smaller this year than in the past. The vendors that did brave the high temperatures were: C.E.R.T. members, The Mesquite Chamber of Commerce, Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue, We Care for Animals, The Exchange Club of Mesquite and The Salvation Army.

Captain Lisa Smith of the Salvation Army was happy to introduce the Mesquite community members to her new intern, Cadet Amanda Suarez. The two were collecting donations for the Salvation Army School for Officer Training in Tanzania.

This is the eighth consecutive year ‘Rockets over Red Mesa’ Fourth of July festivities allowed Mesquite residents to come together in celebration of Independence Day and their rich and diverse community. Photo by Teri Nehrenz

This is the eighth consecutive year ‘Rockets over Red Mesa’ Fourth of July festivities allowed Mesquite residents to come together in celebration of Independence Day and their rich and diverse community.

“The Eureka Community Initiative is thrilled to yet again host this essential community celebration. Fireworks on the 4th are always fun, but having a live orchestra of the size and capability of the Nevada

Mike Benham, C.E.R.T. Director, and his team were on hand during the July fourth festivities to offer whatever services might have been needed. Photo by Teri Nehrenz

Pre-concert music was provided by radio stations 94.9 and 107.3 the place for big kicking country. Photo by Teri Nehrenz

Captain Lisa Smith of the Salvation Army was happy to introduce the Mesquite community members to her new intern, Cadet Amanda Suarez. Photo by Teri Nehrenz

As they have every year the Eureka provided some cooling fans for relief from the blistering hot temperatures which patrons were more than happy to enjoy. Photo by Teri Nehrenz

Balloon artists were on hand creating some patriotic air-filled sculptures for kids of all ages. Photo by Teri Nehrenz

The Nevada Pops entertained the audience before the fireworks on July fourth with a tribute saluting American heroes. Photo by Teri Nehrenz

This is the eighth consecutive year ‘Rockets over Red Mesa’ Fourth of July festivities allowed Mesquite residents to come together in celebration of Independence Day and their rich and diverse community. Photo by Teri Nehrenz