For the second year in a row, Eric Rayner has fought to save the fireworks display.
And he will get his wish. Council voted on June 17 to have the 2020 fireworks.
Last year, the concern was a lack of funding. This year, the fireworks are fully funded but when the Annual Ellwood City Arts, Crafts, Food and Entertainment Festival was canceled for 2020, Rayner decided he did not want that to include a cancellation of the fireworks.
The fireworks will begin at 9:30 p.m. July 3 at Steifel Park. He said the location was chosen for visibility.
“I’m hoping this grants us all a better chance to see them no matter where you are at in town,” Rayner said. “It’s not a promise. It’s not a guarantee. It’s just the best I was able to do.”
Zambelli’s is also shooting off higher fireworks this year.
Please note the following if you plan to watch the fireworks:
- No one will be able to view the fireworks from Stiefel Park. The park will be closed for the release of the fireworks display.
- Rayner is encouraging everyone to adhere to social distancing and limiting the number of people at gatherings per the CDC guidelines
- All spectators are prohibited from parking or gathering on private property (residential driveways), private businesses, or on the sides of roadways.
Rayner said there are a lot of people to thank for making this possible during a pandemic.
He said although $6,000 was raised for the fireworks, there are additional costs that are typically covered by the festival. Rayner said the festival committee voted to cover the additional costs including insurance and police coverage.
“I am incredibly grateful for that!” he said.
He also is thankful to Councilman Caleb Cragle who Rayner said facilitated his conversations and the logistics with council.
Also on the list of thanks is Borough Manager David Allen, Festival Chair Raylene Boots, Mayor Anthony Court, Ellwood City Council, state Rep. Aaron Bernstine, Venezie Sporting Goods, and Koehler Brewery.
The money has been raised for this year’s fireworks, but to donate to the 2021 fireworks, contact Rayner at 724-496-5644.
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