Projo 7 to 7 News Blog

WaterFire Providence begins again, only slightly dimmed by the economy, and is looking for your help.

Officials Thursday announced nine full and four partial events this year.

"Our sponsors have been loyal and incredibly generous," said Barnaby Evans, WaterFire's creator.

Additional events, which cost about $120,000, may be added. The first full WaterFire is May 23, the last is Oct. 10. There will be six jazz concerts, and four nights of ballroom dancing.

The state is expected to level-fund WaterFire with $300,000.

"It has been immune from some of the cuts for obvious reasons," said Rep. Steven Costantino, the House Finance chairman.

WaterFire's economic impact is eight times its cost, according to Evans. But WaterFire needs money: yours. Last year the public contributed $36,000. Evans wants to double that, selling not just candles and glowing necklaces, but also flowers. For a fee, you can sponsor a brazier, filling it between lightings with fire-colored blooms.

There will be three times as many WaterFire volunteers this year, and three times the opportunity to contribute.

"We need to let the public know. There will be a lot more interaction."

 Tags  Providence RI WaterFire

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