In George, Being George—a biography of participatory journalist and New York City’s honorary Fireworks Commissioner George Plimpton—a source says, "They’re beautiful, beautiful, but sometimes you can think there’s nothing sadder than fireworks. They’re beautiful feats, but there is no more mortal art."
Fitting words for today, as David Phillips, chairman of the local Save the Fireworks Committee, announced in a press release that the next July 4 fireworks show at McIntire Park will be the committee’s last.
"Numerous other non-profits have either folded or are in dangerof doing so, and we are reluctant to pursue the limited resources of the local community and take away from some groups that provide basic human services," wrote Phillips. This year’s fireworks program, he adds, will be noticeably smaller—fewer fireworks, and no kids games or local band showcases.
Previous funding for the event came from sponsors like Dave Matthews Band and both the City of Charlottesville and Albemarle County. Phillips shares his hope that a private company or the Parks and Recreation department for the city or county will step in for July 4, 2010.
To put it mildly, I am devastated, as I’ve never met a sparkler, bottle rocket or Roman candle I didn’t like. Who should step in to save our shared love of pyromania? Leave your thoughts below, after a video of last year’s fireworks at McIntire Park.
Gaze upon the awesome spectacle of last year’s Fourth of July grand finale at McIntire Park! Ooh! Aah!
