Yes, to fireworks

With the Fourth of July just around the corner, many people may be wondering if the skies will light up with another impressive fireworks display this year, and there’s good news.

Donations have been collected and funds were raised by the Newcastle Chamber of Commerce throughout the year, fireworks have been ordered, and the Newcastle Volunteer Fire Department is planning to set them off on Thursday, July 4, at dusk. The location of the display, however, is still up in the air and dependent on moisture received between now and the Fourth.
“If we continue to receive rain in the next few days, the location will be in the same place as last year, below the shooting range,” said NVFD Chief James Curren, referring to the location on the hill near the Weston County Sportsman’s Club’s range, near the Newcastle water tower.

He said the fire department does have a backup plan this year, just in case no rain is received and conditions continue to remain dry.

“If we determine it is too dry for last year’s location, we talked to the golf course already and we will be shooting them from Newcastle Country Club,” he said. Curren said it may be harder to view them from the golf course, but safety will ultimately determine the location for the pyrotechnics display.

Curren wanted to thank all the businesses and individuals that donated funds for this year’s fireworks display, and he said it’s important to keep the support and donations coming in throughout the year to ensure future displays.

As for those who want to light their own fireworks within Newcastle City limits from July 3-5, Curren said the Newcastle City Council will be making their decision in regard to that on July 1.

Curren said conditions are drying out in the area, and he encourages everyone to exercise caution and to be safe during the Fourth, and throughout the rest of the summer.