OUR TURN: MFalls fireworks display needs a boost
“By the rockets’ red glare …”
And with enough public support, these immortal words from the national anthem will become a physical reality for the Marble Falls Community Fireworks display July 4.
All it takes is your help.
The volunteers organizing the annual fireworks display over Lake Marble Falls said more donations are needed to fund the costs of the extravaganza, which draws thousands.
They are trying to reach a goal of $19,000, said Judy Miller, a businesswoman and one of the chief organizers.
The show is a beautiful, awe-inspiring display of aerial artwork that uses the night sky as a canvas.
The public should wholeheartedly support this enterprise.
Not only do the fireworks provide some amazing entertainment value, they also help boost business because those who come to watch visit local restaurants and shops.
This year, there could be a greater number of attendees because Austin, Pflugerville and other cities have canceled their fireworks displays due to fears about the lingering drought and potential for wildfires.
While that remains a concern in Marble Falls, the fireworks display occurs over the lake, mitigating much of the danger from wayward sparks.
Three years ago, the fireworks show was canceled. Last year, Miller and her colleagues brought it back through hard work, a lot of heart and probably even some sweat.
They did the right thing, because the show is about more than just some pretty explosions.
It’s also a reminder of the sacrifices Americans had to make to achieve and keep our freedom. That’s why July 4 is called Independence Day.
There are plenty of ways to help.
Those who wish to help with fundraising can send a tax-deductible check payable to Marble Falls Community Fireworks, c/o Judy Miller, P.O. Box 158, Marble Falls, TX 78654.
Collection buckets also are set up around town where checks or change can be dropped off, including at the Chamber office, 916 Second St.; Charlie’s Country Store & Cafe, 1406 U.S. 281 South; City Hall, 800 Third St.; Coach Wash, 2605 U.S. 281 North; Fresh & Fruiti, 103 U.S. 281 North; the Visitors’ Center, 801 U.S. 281 North; Security State Bank & Trust, 603 U.S. 281 North; and Schlotzsky’s, 2410 U.S. 281 North.
The year’s display is 5 p.m. July 4 in Lakeside Park, 306 Buena Vista Drive. Lakeside Pavilion and the city swimming pool will remain open, giving visitors places to cool off.
Several bands also will provide musical entertainment, including the Hill Country Community Band at 5 p.m. and headliner Barnhill at 8:30 p.m., as well as Ross Cooper and an acoustic song swap featuring Heath Childs and Bill Coe.
Miller says any leftover donations will go into a fund to help pay for future fireworks celebrations, thereby keeping the tradition going.
Barring any unforeseen problems courtesy of the drought, the fireworks celebration is the kind of event that binds together a community and provides a great show. Dig into your pockets and show a little red, white and blue spirit by offering a donation.