Bill Crabtree, the communications and public affairs director for the town, said early Wednesday, “We still have not received an explanation from the fireworks company as to the reason for the abbreviated fireworks show.”
Ruben Wall, the director for the town’s parks, recreation and cultural resources department, spoke in mid-afternoon to the fireworks company. Crabtree reported the following: “Ruben spoke earlier today to a fireworks company representative who assured him the Town received the same number of fireworks this year as last. He further stated the shorter program was likely due to the fact the technician shot the fireworks off at a faster pace. Still, the fireworks company has offered to refund a portion of our money and give us a discount next year. As for the Town’s position, no decision has yet been made concerning next year.”
The town budgeted $38,500 for the fireworks, part of the parks and recreation budget, and received $25,500 in sponsorships. “The generous contributions of our sponsors allowed us to cover the cost of the fireworks ($20,000) and the entertainment – Sleeping Booty ($3,500),” Crabtree said.
The Gazette asked who made up the planning committee for the fireworks, and Crabtree said, “The Fireworks Spectacular Planning Committee is comprised of staff representing virtually every Town department, along with representatives from the Wake Forest Fire Department and Wake County EMS. Spearheaded by the Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Department, the event planning and execution is a total team effort. The success of the event is due entirely to the collaboration and efforts of well over 100 Town staff and police, fire and EMS officials, along with invaluable assistance from HHS Athletic Director Pat Kennedy.”
He added, “As for the program, we wish to extend a special thanks to Pastor Anthony Harris for leading the invocation, Lori Eitel for her amazing rendition of the National Anthem and the members of the Wake Forest Memorial Flag-Raising Committee for leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Thanks also to Commissioner Brian Pate for serving as emcee.
“Finally, I don’t know if you’re going to mention the Children’s Parade, but thanks to the following civic groups for providing volunteers to work at the event: Daughters of the American Revolution, Wake Forest Rotary Club, Kiwanis Club of Wake Forest, Wake Forest Garden Club, Wake Forest Optimist Club and Wake Forest Lions Club.
“Thanks also to Rob Mitchell, Jill Bright and Ruth Ann Dyer for coordinating the efforts of the volunteers and to the Wake Forest Police Department for designing the route and ensuring the safety of the parade participants. Finally, a special thanks to the Wake Forest Woman’s Club for once again hosting Art in the Park.”
