Coldest night of the Manatee County Fair brings big crowds and a patriotic celebration
Despite chilly temperatures and a frigid breeze, crowds braved the Manatee County Fairgrounds on Tuesday night for a patriotic celebration and midway fun.
The fair hosted a night for veterans with live music and a special appearance by former Iraqi prisoner of war Jessica Lynch.
Admission was free for all who attended thanks to a sponsorship from local religious organization Palmetto Build.
Veterans night
Country artist Darryl Worley took the stage in the entertainment tent to give thanks to U.S. service members past and present before performing his 2003 hit, “Have You Forgotten?” to massive applause.
Worley also encouraged civilians to support military members at every chance.
“Don’t ever think that you don’t have a part in it — you certainly do,” Worley said. “If it’s nothing more than asking to shake someone’s hand. Little stuff like that means the world to these guys and girls, so let’s not forget about that.“
U.S. Armyu veteran Jessica Lynch shared a firsthand account of her harrowing experience as a prisoner of war in 2003. Lynch was serving as Army private first class and a member of the 507th Maintenance Company when she was severely injured in ambush and taken captive by Iraqi forces.
Lynch survived her injuries and a surgery that left one leg infected, also narrowly escaping amputation before she was rescued after nine days. She went on to receive military honors and an education degree.
Lynch says her desire to become a teacher is the reason why she joined the military in the first place.
“My message is perseverance. To be able to come out stronger than what I went in — I know that you guys can go through anything that you might be facing,” Lynch told the audience. “Especially veterans.”
Lynch got a standing ovation from a crowd that included veterans from every branch of the military.
Out on the midway, folks enjoyed rides, games and fair food despite the blustery weather.
Weather outlook
Weather for the remainder of the Manatee County Fair should be more ... fair, according to forecasts from the National Weather Service.
Wednesday temperatures are predicted to be in the mid-50s to low 60s.
Thursday and Friday should be even warmer, with highs around 75 and lows in the upper 50s — though Friday’s forecast provides for a 20 percent chance of rain during the daytime evening hours.
Things will cool slightly for the weekend; highs around 70 and lows near 50 are expected for Saturday and Sunday, according to NWS. A 20 percent chance of rain is predicted for Sunday night.