Sylvania fireworks draws thousands of ooohs, ahhhhs

7/4/2013

Shortly after 10 p.m., thousands of Sylvania residents were treated to an exuberant firework show in celebration of the nation’s independence.

Families and friends gathered together at Centennial Terrace, 5773 Centennial Rd. and at nearby Pacesetter Park and elsewhere, for the yearly anticipated Star Spangled Celebration. It included a 25-minute firework display as part of the festive event for the Fourth of July, co-sponsored by the City of Sylvania and Sylvania Township, along with local businesses and the Sylvania Recreation District.

PHOTO GALLERY: Fireworks at Centennial Terrace

A Sylvania tradition, hundreds of people watched the fireworks from nearby Pacesetter Park or host parties at their homes in view of the light show, which could be seen in the nearby western part of Sylvania and Sylvania Township. Others found viewing spots along roadsides and open fields, such as a Centennial and Brint roads.

The party at Centennial Terrace started at 7 p.m. and included classic tunes of the 1960s and 1970s performed by local group Randy and the Reef Sharks.

At the outdoor venue, food was available, from hot dogs to other handheld treats. There were also colorful clowns for kids.

Pyrotecnico of New Castle, Penn., managed the fireworks show that was synchronized to patriotic music. Local radio station WRQN-FM 93.5 simulcasted the event live.

The fireworks show cost is $28,875, split among the city, township and and sponsors, such as Coca-Cola Stapleton Insurance Group, Waterford Bank, and the Sylvania Recreation District. The sponsors covered about 75 percent of the cost.

Sylvania Township Police were also on hand directing the traffic during and after the Independence festivities, which ended at midnight.