Fireworks display is Sunday evening
The popular Labor Day fireworks display at Marion County Lake will begin at 9:30 p.m. Sunday.
It has been well attended in the past, and highly appreciated by the public.
Until this year, the display was financed by Marion County. However, faced with extreme budget problems, the commissioners could not provide funding for this year's display.
Marion businessman DuWayne Suffield didn't want to see the event die, "it's been such a great boost for the area," so he set about saving it.
Suffield called on fellow merchants and collected $4,000 cash to sponsor this year's display. Hoch Publishing Co. also donated full-page advertisements in the newspapers at Marion, Hillsboro, and Peabody, to promote the event.
Sponsors included Suffield's hardware, plumbing and heating business, Central National Bank, Marion National Bank, Tampa State Bank, Marion Die and Fixture, Country Inn Motel, Marion Pharmacy, Western Associates, Atmos Energy, D&J Liquors, Shawmar Oil and Gas, Webster Auto Service, Marion Auto Supply, Carlsons' Grocery, Leith Inc., and Oursler Brothers Construction.
Those attending the fireworks display will find ample parking space around the lake. It is suggested they bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating.
Suffield said a bank account has been established for the 2004 display. Those who would like to contribute are welcome to do so. Make checks payable to Marion County Fireworks Fund and send to Suffield Hardware, 1911 170th, Marion 66861.
He said funds on deposit will be used as "seed money" for another display next year. Marion County officials said it will be impossible to put it in next year's budget. The future is in the hands of public contributors and business owners.
Suffield also warned about a possible abuse. Last year "bogus collectors" were working the crowd at the lake, soliciting funds. "They were bogus" Suffield warned.
He suggests that contributions be sent to the address above, and not given to fraudulent solicitors.
