Lost Bridge fireworks show is a go

Donations, rise in association fees mean plenty of money for event

The Lost Bridge Village Community Association fireworks show is back for another year with last year's fundraising woes no longer a concern, said a representative.

A vote to increase homeowners' association fees failed in 2014, raising concerns if an August 2015 proposal also failed, this year's show would be one of the first things the association would eliminate. The vote passed and with donations from local marinas and individuals, Lost Bridge Village has more money than last year for an even bigger celebration, said Jon Testut, association president.

No show In Fayetteville

The annual “Freedom Fireworks” show in Fayetteville has canceled.

The show was canceled because of construction in grassland behind the Northwest Arkansas Mall where the show usually has taken place, according to the mall. The show dates back to the early 1980s, but has been canceled in the past, according to records. Mall officials did not respond to voicemail and questions sent via email regarding future fireworks displays.

Source: Staff report

"Our budget number wasn't sufficient initially," said John Buhr, who will coordinate the fireworks show, "but with donations, we will have a firework show that will be comparable, if not a little better, than last year."

The show over Beaver Lake will include fireworks from Hog Wild Pyrotechnics accompanied by a DJ playing patriotic music. It is planned for around 9 p.m. Saturday and should last around 18 minutes, Buhr said. A rain date is set for Sunday.

The crowd could reach 4,500 people and more than 1,000 boats, Testut said. Patrol boats from the Benton County Sheriff's Office, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and local fire departments will be on the water to ensure a safe environment, he said.

"It's become somewhat of a tradition," Testut said. "Everyone has come to expect it. Every year we notice that there are more people."

Since 2002, residents on improved lots, ones served by sewer, paid $96 a year. Last year's approval raised annual fees to $160 on improved lots and $112 on unimproved lots, increasing the budget by $46,000 a year.

The money is being used to fix potholes, recreational improvements and general upkeep of the grounds and amenities, Testut said.

About $7,000 will be put into the fireworks show, donations included, Testut said. A show for next year is planned with continued community support, Buhr said.

Lost Bridge and Starkey marinas contributed to the funds, Buhr said. The Fourth of July weekend is the biggest holiday on the lake, and while the fireworks show may not be the sole reason for increased business, it is a part of the weekend's appeal, said Jim Humphreys, part-owner of Lost Bridge Marina.

Lost Bridge Marina donated $1,000 in 2015. Humphreys said the business upped it to $1,200 this year.

"It's a sea of red and green lights out on the water," and many of the boats are from his marina, Humphreys said.

"They approached us about donating, and we were happy to do it," Humphreys said. "It is only right that we help with the cost of the show, because we benefit too. If it makes our customers happy, we should contribute.

"And it's a great show. One guy said (last year) that it was the best show he'd seen in 15 years."

The marina plans to donate to the fireworks show annually, he said.

The fireworks show can be seen on the water near the Lost Bridge and Starkey marinas or from the Lost Bridge Village Recreation Center, 11636 Dogwood Drive in Garfield.

Volunteers will sell hamburgers, hot dogs and drinks at the center from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, and food can be purchased with a ticket bought at the door with cash only.

Ted Tidwell and the Second Wind Band will perform before the fireworks display. Attendees should bring lawn chairs or blankets, Buhr said.

NW News on 06/27/2016

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