published: Sunday, June 14, 2009

AP fireworks to be better than ever

By CHRISTOPHER TUFFLEY

christopher.tuffley@newssun.com

AVON PARK -- "Fourth of July without fireworks is like a birthday cake without candles," said Wally Randall, the city's master impresario of fireworks displays.

Anyone who knows Randall has heard him say those words.

Tuesday at noon, the Community Redevelopment Agency's Main Street Advisory Board had its turn.

Randall reported that an effort is being made to turn the Fourth of July into a festive community party, including patriotic music -- Shelby Dressel will be singing -- and food vendors, to be topped off with the fireworks display.

The Jaycees are helping to organize and sponsor the event, he said.

This year, Randall added, the fireworks will be shot off from four barges in the center of Lake Verona. That way no roads have to be closed, the display will be even more spectacular, and the sounds reverberate as if in an amphitheater.

In other words, he said, it will be the best fireworks display yet.

The cost of the fireworks, which have to be detonated electronically, will be somewhat more expensive than earlier years.

The Main Street CRA advisory board voted unanimously to contribute $2,000 toward the overall costs.

The fireworks display begins at 9:15 p.m. The fun at Donaldson Park starts at 4 p.m. Bring chairs and blankets.

Vendors interested in taking part should call Randall quickly. That is because it will be a non-competitive event, meaning only one vendor of its kind will be permitted to set up.

Prospective vendors should call Randall at 443-1737. Private donations toward the fireworks will be gratefully accepted.