Memorial Day weekend fireworks display in jeopardy

 

For the past two years, the Friends of Ironton have lit up the sky with its pre-Memorial Day fireworks display.

The civic group wants to make its third annual display even better, but without the community’s support, organizers fear the sky may remain dark this year.

“We need people to help us,” Suzie Hamlin, FOI member, said. “We don’t want to say it’s not going to happen, but I’m afraid we might lose it. Without some financial backing, we’re going to have to give up, at least this year.”

Hamlin said the increasing cost of fireworks and funding renovations at the Ro-Na Theater are reasons the organization can’t fully fund this year’s display.

“Those things just keep getting more and more expensive,” she said. “Unfortunately, the Ro-Na is first priority when it comes to any available money the Friends have.”

Past years’ displays have been met with positive feedback from the community, and Hamlin said if the fireworks don’t happen this year, it would be a loss for Ironton.

“Last year there were a lot more people down on the riverbank,” she said. “This is something else you can do in downtown Ironton before Memorial Day.

This year, as in year’s past, the fireworks would be set off the day before Memorial Day and the festivities will begin earlier, with concessions available, games to play, and performances by the April and May winners of the FOI’s Battle of the Bands.

Anyone who wishes to help may send donations to the Friends of Ironton at P.O. Box 448, Ironton, OH 45638.