Stuart Sloan reportedly behind bash at Gas Works Park

The man behind a big bash at Gas Works Park Saturday night reportedly is big-time Seattle businessman Stuart Sloan.

George Wood, who runs the concession stand at the park, said the event was a celebration of Sloan's recent wedding. Sloan was also named in weekend news reports as host of the party, for some 300 guests.

Gary Tucker, spokesman for The Workshop, which staged the event, declined Sunday to confirm the identity of the party's host but wasn't shy about commenting about the party itself, in particular the fireworks:

"It went off beautifully. Everyone had a fantastic time," he said. "The public that came to see it said it was one of the best fireworks they'd ever seen."

Last week, some neighbors in Wallingford were grumbling that a private party could take over part of Gas Works Park, but others were just curious to know who was behind what looked to be a pretty pricey event.

Sloan has been a longtime newsmaker in Seattle with interests that have ranged from the QFC grocery chain to Seattle's University Village shopping center to high-tech companies. He was also the man behind an eight-year program of $1 million-a-year gifts to the Central Area's T.T. Minor Elementary School.

Several large, white tents resembling the shells of the Sydney Opera House went up last week, followed by lighting and sound equipment. Performers could be heard rehearsing in preparation for the main event.

Even people who live beyond Wallingford heard the fireworks, which were loud enough to set off car alarms across Lake Union.

Seattle parks officials said last week that the permit for the party requires that the tents be gone by today.

Joelle Ligon, a parks spokeswoman, said it's not unusual for private groups to rent Gas Works Park for events. This year the park has been the site of 18 weddings, 145 picnics, 12 film sessions and 12 special events, she said.