Revised Weirs Beach Fireworks Schedule

[T.H.E. Binz]

I can't find a fireworks schedule for this summer, only that they will continue Friday nights as long as people/businesses keep financing them. Does anyone know where I can find an up-to-date fireworks schedule?

[meredith weekender]

Called the Chamber last week and was told that were no sponsors for weekly fireworks.

[nhyitbos]

A little background information. Many folks are unaware that the fireworks are fully funded by private donations from area businesses and individuals. When Weirs Action Committee (WAC) first volunteered to solicit for the donations, it was a better economy and the fees for firework shows were reasonable. As with anything else, costs go up. Where the shows were originally $1500 and well supported by businesses to sponsor a whole show; the previous 2 years saw a decline in sponsorships and rising costs of shows. The shows have been averaging $3500 PLUS the state this year requires a firefighter on sight from the time they pull the truck onto the beach until they clean up the beach after the show. That adds another $45 per hour/6 hours average time.

Last year there were pledges for shows, however, the businesses never followed through with the check. The shows you saw last year were paid by WAC and put the group into the hole $15K before being able to re-coup this bike week. Therefore, WAC schedules through permission/licenses (both state and city) for the entire summer. However, WAC does not commit to a show until the money is in the firework account.

Weirs Action Committee did hundreds of mailings during the winter twice. They signed up for credit cards and put a donation "button" on their website: www.weirsbeach.org. The total collection in previous years averaged $26K; this year it was $1200 in donations. WAC is grateful to the city's continued support of the 4th of July show.

The next show that this years donations will fund is the labor day show; September 2 at 10pm.

I hope this gives you a little more insight and hopefully our well known firework shows don't permanently leave the area.:):)

[Phantom]

Thank You for the insight --

Although unpleasant to hear, I fully understand given the Economic conditions people & local merchants are faced with