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SALT LAKE CITY -- The fireworks show that almost wasn't got underway after dusk Saturday in Sugarhouse Park. The thousands of people who attended have one man to thank for the show.
Ask Scott Workman why he loves fireworks so much, and he'll get right to the heart of the Fourth of July.
"I think it's a tradition we need to continue for this country to remind us of the freedoms we have," he told KSL News.
That's why when he learned the annual Sugarhouse Park firework show was being canceled due to budget woes, he got to work rallying neighbors and local businesses. At the last minute, Walmart pitched in to push the Save the Sugar House Fireworks campaign over the top.
"Instead of the $75,000 goal, we're now at $85,500," Workman said.
So what kind of bang do those bucks buy?
"It's kind of hard to say because I just keep adding them, but well over 1,200," said Chuck Johnson, owner of Vortex Fireworks Artists.
Johnson was at the park early Saturday, rigging the wiring for the show. This year, they've added some new designs to the mix.
"This particular one is half red, half blue, with a ring and around. It will be silver spiny things," Johnson said. "This is a very sophisticated shell."
People also arrived early at the park to eat, play and pick out a perfect spot for the firework show.
"I was super excited to hear the private donors did this, because I was like, ‘Where are we going to go this year?'" Salt Lake Valley resident Ave Neria said.
As for Scott Workman, he normally watches the show from his front porch. Saturday night was is a little different. He was front and center, watching the firework finale -- and the finale of his hard work.
"I think this is the best fireworks show I think I'll ever see in my entire life, because it's been months and months of worry if it's going to happen," Workman said. "And now that it is, this is the fruit of the community."
Workman was quick to pass off credit to his committee, and it hopes to keep this tradition going next year. It is using the extra money to set up a nonprofit organization with a board of directors. If Workman has any say, this show is going nowhere.
There are also several other fireworks shows and celebrations planned across the state this weekend.To see a list, [CLICK HERE].
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Story compiled with contributions from Sarah Dallof and Mary Richards.
