By KEVIN CEDERSTROM kcederstrom@parkrapidsenterprise.com
The fireworks fundraising drive is underway as the Park Rapids Rotary Club looks to keep the annual 4th of July display, some say, the largest of its kind in the state. To hold on to the unofficial distinction and glowing reputation of being the biggest and brightest fireworks display in Minnesota, the Park Rapids Rotary Club relies on donations to fund the annual patriotic pyrotechnic show. Rotary member Dave Collins claims, to the best of his knowledge, the Park Rapids fireworks display in Heartland Park is the largest of its kind in Minnesota. He’s heard of a couple other big displays across the state that may rival Park Rapids and welcomes the challenge. The Rotary club mailed letters on April 1 seeking contributions from businesses and individuals in the community. Rotary took over organizing the fireworks display in 2008 and that year had 77 donors. The number of contributors jumped to 259 in 2009, and raised over $25,000. Last year, the 2014 totals show over 445 business and individual donors contributed just under $30,000. The Independence Day fireworks show takes place in Heartland Park on Saturday, July 4. Other events going on in Park Rapids on July 4 include the Firecracker Foot Race, Fourth of July Parade, Park Rapids Community Band pre-fireworks concert and PBR Bull Ride.
