A steady flow of customers braved the heat and humidity Friday, along with the threat of rain, to seek out some “hot” sales items as the downtown merchants promoted their annual sidewalk sales.

Among the participating merchants was a newcomer, Betty’s XChange, an upscale consignment shop located on the west side of the square. It opened a month ago and specializes in clothing and accessories considered to be in excellent condition, many with coveted name labels.

Reeve’s Linens and Gifts were doing a brisk business with an offering of some very unique items; and the portable SnoBiz located across the street offered cool refreshment from the heat.

Candles from the Refinery filled the air with a beautiful scent next door to Maiden South, which opted for an open door policy and kept the bulk of their merchandise inside where it was cooler. That was the case with several other participating merchants downtown.