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2023 Butler Firework display
By Nila Harris
The Butler Fireworks held on July 3, 2023, was a well-attended event that hot summer evening. Becki Gruener, assistant Butler city clerk explained how the city was able to pull off this fun, family-oriented event.
In May, Gruener sends out letters requesting donations and records the donations received. The city is appreciative for all donations which make the fireworks possible for the little town. Gruener also contacts the entities for the various activities that night.
PCWAP oversaw the popcorn and ice balls, but it turned out that the heat and humidity were too high to make cotton candy this year. The Butler Lodge of the Masons came and grilled several types of yummy food. The amazing firework display was discharged by VITOS fireworks. Two inflatables were brought in by a local company called Fry’s Party Essentials. Head Start employees volunteered to monitor the inflatables. Matt Sorrell provided his usual outstanding performance as DJ for the duration.
Set up for the event was completed by the city maintenance department and the ladies of City Hall. Mill Street and Taylor Street were closed at 4 p.m. by Butler Police Chief Kenny Hale and Constables Lou McCord and Greg Littleton. They also provided security, along with Sheriff Deputy Florer and two State troopers. The Falmouth Fire Department provided fire protection. And of course, Butler City Mayor Mason Taylor had his hand in all aspects of the event from organization to clean up.
Butler Christian Church held a Summer Fun basket raffle and provided information about various outreach events the church has planned. A community wide VBS will be held July 31-August 3 at Butler Christ Community Church. In October, BCC will be hosting a Boo Bash. Sometime in December, there will be a pancake breakfast before the Butler Christmas Parade.
Taylor stated that a heavy estimate for the fireworks would be 1,500 people. Prior to next year’s fireworks, he would like to have a meeting with everyone involved a week before to come up with a set plan.
Gruener stated that it was a long day for her—14 ½ hours—but one could quickly tell that she relished the job. Being a US Navy Veteran, Gruener is used to being given a task and accomplishing it quickly and efficiently. She is grateful to all who assisted, and for the mayor who sent her a text afterwards stating, “You were a pivotal key in the success of last night.”
Well done, Butler!