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11/29/2003 Archived Entry: "MY SORTA NAMESAKE IS IN TROUBLE"

MY SORTA NAMESAKE IS IN TROUBLE

We've had good, professional fireworks in Ellsworth for over 20 years and now we learn they are in jeopardy. The lack of money and volunteers are the culprits.

The Star Spangled Spectacular, as it has been known in recent years, was a name I suggested and it won the little contest they had for it. I'm not sure anyone else entered! I still have my Sammy Beanie Baby they gave me for winning. It sits on top of my monitor and smiles down at me.

Ron Svaty, the event organizer, wrote a letter that said in part: "For the past few years, I have been the fundraiser for the Fourth of July celebration. Basically, the committee has operated on putting things together and I told them I would raise the money and that has always worked. This year it did not. At the time of my writing this letter, we are still $840 short of paying off the Fireworks Company...

...While I think the event itself has improved dramatically over the last few years under Lou Boley's guidance, the financial support from the community has continued to decline. I have therefore advised Lou that I can no longer continue to be the fundraiser..."

The fireworks cost between $12,000 and $13,000 and the city has picked up from $5,000 to $7,500 of that amount from its tourism fund. The rest has come from private donations. Unless there are financial commitments and more volunteers, the project seems doomed.

Some activities have already been set for the 2004 celebration. The committee hopes to know by February 1st if the celebration will be a go.

It's my favorite holiday. I love the community activities and fireworks that combine in such a beautiful way to celebrate our independence.