For a while, Selma apparently would have to forgo fireworks in its July 4 celebration this year.

The financial crunch had hit the city. Mayor George Evans talked about some ways to eek through the crisis, but none of them really hit a chord with the Selma City Council.

A couple of Sundays ago, Dr. Bruce Taylor spoke at Ebenezer Baptist Church. Council member Sam Randolph attended.

Taylor is the founder, owner and operator of Taylorville, a family entertainment center on U.S. Highway 80 that features laser tag, putt-putt golf, video games, food, beverages and picnic areas. He intends it a safe place to go, where families can have wholesome fun.

Taylorville has become the savior of fireworks for Selma’s July 4.

Randolph talked to Taylor about the need to have fireworks for the Fourth. The councilman brought in council president Dr. Geraldine Allen, who also helped negotiate the terms: The city would provide a program and Taylorville would provide the fireworks.

“I’m excited,” Taylor said. “I think it’s a good cooperative effort. It will give us more exposure and we help out by paying for the fireworks.”

The program begins at 8 p.m. and will feature speeches by Evans and council members and special music. As of late Thursday a specific program was unavailable.

Fireworks will begin at 9 p.m., Taylor said.

But, if folks really want to enjoy the Fourth at the park, they need to come out about 6 p.m., play a few games and get ready for the festivities at 8 p.m.

Allen praised Randolph as being “very vigilant and very motivated” to see that Selma did not go without a fireworks show.

Taylor had called Evans to make sure any fireworks show by Taylorville would not interfere with city plans.

“He had checked because he didn’t want to compete with the city,” Allen said.

Council members contributed money from their discretionary funds for security, fans and flags for the program.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for a business and the city to tag team,” Allen said, “and that’s what we’re calling it. Taylorville is paying city taxes to us and they are supportive to us and our council. Dr. Taylor is very excited about being a part of this.”