De Soto’s Independence Day festivities went on mostly as usual, but organizers say that may change if economic conditions don’t improve.
“The fireworks went great. Everyone seemed to like the show,” said Larry Bridges, president of the De Soto Lions Club, which has sponsored the fireworks for the past five years. “But attendance was down considerably over previous years, and we’re not sure why.
“We actually lost money on (the fireworks show), and unless we get more donations coming in, there may not be another one next year.”
The day started at 4 p.m. on a more positive note, with a large turnout for a parade sponsored by the De Soto Chamber of Commerce.
“The parade went really smoothly,” chamber office coordinator Sarah Greenlee said. “We had about 65 entries, and it was a beautiful day, not too hot. Everyone was just all smiles, and excited to be out and about.”
The free fireworks display went off without any problems at about 9:15 p.m., following an evening of concession sales and kids’ activities
“We used to typically get $3,000 to $4,000 in concessions, and this year we didn’t even make $700,” Bridges said. “That’s really putting a bind on us. After Sunday night’s show, we’ll fall about $11,000 short for next year. At this point we’re out on the tip of the limb on whether we’re going to be able to do this again.”
Bridges said the fireworks themselves aren’t the only expense.
“There are permits, porta potties,” he said. “And Class A fireworks have to be set off by paid professionals. I know people love the show, but I just don’t think they understand what all it takes to do it. God bless the businesses in De Soto; without those, this just couldn’t have happened at all.”
Bridges said club members know the coronavirus has placed hardships on the community, and they are hopeful there’s a way to keep the event going.
“We know business have been hurt, people have been hurt, money is down,” he said. “What I’m hoping to do is get some other clubs involved. This is a community event, and I believe we should all pitch in together as a community. If we get several organizations, and each one puts on one or two events where the profit goes into the fireworks account, we’d be in good shape.
“I’m not giving up. We’re going to meet soon and see what can be done to keep it going.”