Fireworks at Torch Lake

After a few years of uncertainty, the tradition of a fireworks display over the Torch Lake sandbar is returning.
 
At dusk on Sunday, July 3,2022, the skies will be lit up in glory due to the efforts of a few area residents, and with financial assistance from people like you.  Fireworks chair John Feola, owner of Johnny’s Torch Riviera, said “The fireworks are back, hopefully to stay!  There have been some glitches over the past few years leading to occasional cancellations, but we hope that we can get the financial backing from community members to make the fireworks a reality in 2022 and beyond.”
 
To support the fireworks, simply visit www.torchlakefireworks.org and click on the “Donate Now” button.  Donations may also be dropped off at the Riviera restaurant or mailed to 12899 Cherry Avenue, Rapid City, MI 49676.  Please make checks payable to South Torch Area Association (STAA).  The STAA is a 501c(3) organization, so donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by the law.
 
Feola expects the total cost for the fireworks to be about $40,000 this year, a significant increase from the past.  While the group has received some donations, there is still a significant funding shortfall.  “It’s our goal to meet and exceed the expected outlays,” he added.  “Ideally, the group would like to create an endowment for future years.”
 
The Torch Lake fireworks have been a tradition on the lake for at least 30 years.  In the past several years, the fireworks have been canceled sporadically due to a lack of funds, volunteers, and post-9/11 federal requirements.
 
Feola added, “ We would like to thank all of the past  volunteers for their years of hard work.  We are seeing now how difficult this operation really is.”