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SALT LAKE CITY -- Local community members and businesses saved the Sugar House fireworks this year. Friday, a generous donation put the fundraising effort over the top and even left funds for next year.
Scott Workman lives in Sugar House and has enjoyed the annual fireworks show for years. When he heard the fireworks were canceled this year, he organized the Save the Sugar House Fireworks efforts.
Their goal was to raise $75,000. They ended up raising more than that.
"I started with just a concern and an e-mail to the park: ‘Why is this going away? We've had this for over 20 years,'" Workman said. "So they e-mailed me back and we started talking, and all of the sudden they said, ‘Well why don't you do it?'"
"This is a very important program and a very important community event, and we wanted to be a part of ensuring its longevity," said Walmart spokesperson Delia Garcia.
Workman started fundraising efforts in January. He had a great response from other community members and local businesses.
"I feel like I've stepped in front of a fast-moving train and I'm having to run to keep up with it all," he said.
Benn Framer attends the Sugar House fireworks show every year. "I love it and I couldn't believe they weren't going to have it this year," he said. "I went online to sugarhousefireworks.com and donated $5, and I hope everybody will do that so we can keep going every year."
Local businesses like Jamba Juice, Whole Foods Market, Noodles and Company, and Ray's Barbershop donated money. But to have the fireworks, they still needed more.
Friday, Walmart announced a $25,000 donation that exceeded the money necessary.
"This is a very important program and a very important community event, and we wanted to be a part of ensuring its longevity," said Walmart spokesperson Delia Garcia.
The extra money will go toward next year's fundraising efforts. Some money will also be used to set up a non-profit organization so future donations can be tax deductible.
People who donated this year say it inspired neighborhood unity.
"It keeps the community together," Framer said. "It's what a community's all about."
The fireworks will be held July 3 at Sugarhouse Park from 10 until 10:30 p.m.
E-mail: jstagg@ksl.com
