THE PLAINS, Ohio — When Athens County Treasurer Taylor Sappington heard about plans for a fireworks show in The Plains, he knew he had to be a part of it for two reasons: “Independence Day is my favorite holiday, and I also have a love for fireworks shows,” he said.
After attending the organizational meeting hosted by The Plains Fire Volunteer Department, he was on board. Now, a week before the event, the team has already passed their $8,000 fundraising goal.
The first annual Fire Fight on The Hill Fireworks Show is set for 10 p.m. Saturday, June 27, following a full day of food and activities at The Plains Community Park starting at 4 p.m. Events earlier in the day include a car show. Attendees can also enjoy offerings from vendors like Mister Softee and Kona Ice, said The Plains Volunteer Fire Department Assistant Chief Mickey West.
West said The Plains had to plan around other fireworks shows in the county taking place around Independence Day, like those in Athens and Nelsonville. Early in the planning process, the fire department decided they wanted to host an event “for the community.”
“A few of us thought about it and brought it up in a meeting and discussed it and decided to try it, see what happens,” West said.
Sappington has helped the fire department gather support from county officials as well as local businesses. The Athens County Commissioners, Robe Law Office, and GSF Coating Specialists have contributed to the event, and The Plains McDonald’s will serve as its official sponsor.
“I definitely have not done nearly as much as they have, although I’m super grateful for the chance to help,” Sappington said.
He described himself as “competitive” in his approach to fundraising for the show, and discussed competing with other Ohio fireworks shows beyond Athens County, including in Sugar Grove and Lancaster. He said these shows usually cost anywhere from $8,000 to $10,000.
“This one will be bigger than most of those, which is kind of my goal,” he said. “I’m competitive, I don’t care what winning is as long as it’s winning.”
More than anything, Sappington, like West, sees the fireworks show as a chance to unite the community. For him, support from county officials sends a message to unincorporated areas like The Plains.
“I just am really excited for them, not just to have their event, but just to have this small reminder that the county really is invested in their success and wants to help them and wants to support in any way they can,” he said.
The Plains Volunteer Fire Department is still collecting donations for the event and can be contacted at 740-797-2911. Stay up to date with the event on the fire department’s Facebook page.
