Moment Of Silence During Fireworks For Dane Miller
The Warsaw Community Development Corporation is pleased to continue coordinating and arranging the annual Warsaw-Winona Lake fireworks display. For years the residents of our community have celebrated our freedom while watching the fireworks display over Winona Lake. In past years, the fireworks were a part of the Fourth of July races held at the Warsaw Race Track.
Around 1990, Dane and Mary Louise Miller began hosting a party at their home so guests could enjoy the fireworks. That first year, according to Mike Horvath the former owner of Big Bam Boom Display, now known as the Mad Bomber Fireworks Production, Dane secured a few extra firework shells to display in front of their home. Dane set these shells up on his boat pier and after they had been fired, he discovered he needed a new pier.
The next year, Dane had Mike construct a set of barges for use in conducting the show for their guests. Over time, Dane encouraged other businesses and organizations to join him in sponsoring the show. In 2000, John Elliott joined Dane in coordinating and raising the funds for the show. The display now features two launch points and requires assistance from several individuals to coordinate the annual community celebration.
In memory of Dr. Dane Miller’s 25 years of personal investment in this community event, there will be a moment of silence. This will occur approximately 18 minutes into the 25 minute show. During those two minutes, please take a moment to thank Dane for this and the many other events and facilities we enjoy because of his and Mary Louise’s passion for the Winona Lake and Warsaw communities. Attendees are encouraged to stay after the moment of silence for the grand finale.
Weather permitting the show will begin at approximately 10 p.m. Saturday, July 4. This year’s annual fireworks display is being coordinated by Mark Dobson and Jennifer Pyle with Warsaw Community Development Corporation and John Elliott at 1st Source Bank.