ALDERSON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Alderson Mayor Travis Copenhaver is addressing rumors surrounding this year’s Fourth of July celebration, confirming that plans are moving forward for what organizers are calling the largest fireworks display in the town’s history as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
In a statement, Copenhaver said, “There are rumors circulating that are just that….. THE LARGEST FIREWORKS SHOW IN FOURTH OF JULY HISTORY WILL TAKE PLACE IN ALDERSON TO CELEBRATE 250 years of America.”
The mayor acknowledged challenges with last year’s event and said organizers have conducted extensive testing to determine the best location for the fireworks display.
“We didn’t have the best outcome last year. We have done pre- shoot testing to find the best spot. As always the best place to see what sets us apart from the rest of the places is our handmade set pieces. They are only visible from the football field,” Copenhaver said.
According to the mayor, several potential launch sites were evaluated, including the park, a field on Hemlock, a field across from the former Subway restaurant, and property at a Baptist church.
“The location for shooting has been established. We tested the park, the field on Hemlock, the field across from the old Subway, and wanted to use the Baptist church (space and distance requirements did not allow to use this site),” he said.
The fireworks will be launched from the field across from the former Subway location. Copenhaver noted that no parking will be permitted on the old Subway lot because emergency personnel will be stationed there during the event.
“We will use the field across from the old Subway. There will be no parking on the old Subway lot (fire and EMS will be staged there for shooter and surrounding safety) and there will be no access to route 63 and 12 during the time of the show,” he said.
In addition to the fireworks, the celebration will feature live entertainment throughout the day.
“We have lined up outstanding bands to lead up the the best Fourth of July in the state!” Copenhaver said.
The mayor also encouraged residents and visitors to support the event by purchasing duck race tickets, attending the fireworks show, and patronizing local vendors.
“Please buy a duck ticket, pay to see the shows, and come eat with our vendors so we can continue our celebration! Thank those VOLUNTEERS who pull it off. This planning has been happening since last July. We publish every meeting. Decisions aren’t made a month before the celebration.”
The annual celebration is expected to draw large crowds as Alderson marks both Independence Day and the nation’s 250th anniversary.
