Fourth fundraiser meets goal
May 24, 2012
After no Fourth of July fireworks celebration in Bonners Ferry  last year because no one stepped in to fill the shoes of Skip O'Fallon, who retired and couldn't find anyone to take his place as organizer, the celebration is once again on this year, and the community appears grateful.

The list of donors on the website set up for the event, http://july-fourth.us/, is long and impressive!

Earlier this year, Paradise Valley Fire Chief Gary Leonard stepped up to take on a task O'Fallon carried out for more than two decades, and he announced this morning that the initial fundraising goal of $5,000 was reached Wednesday, May 23, with a private donation of $500 that put the fund at $5,010.

"That doesn't mean folks have to stop giving," Leonard said. "Any unspent funds will benefit wounded warriors and a local food bank."

The Wounded Warrior Project is a national organization with a vision to foster the most successful, well-adjusted generation of wounded service members in our nation's history by collecting donations and raising funds to provide care to military members wounded since September 11, 2001, as well as to help their families.

Not on;y is Leonard looking to light up the Bonners Ferry skyline on Independence Day, he's working to organize a Fourth of July parade, scheduled to begin at 4 p.m., as well as entertainment, food, refreshments and activities for the entire family at the fairgrounds as we wait for the sun to set annd 10 p.m. to arrive for the launch of the fireworks display.

The Rod Benders will have their classy cars on display, firefighters from around the county will compete in a firefighter challenge, those running for elected office on the Boundary County ballot this November have been invited and a lot more will be going on.

Volunteers are still needed to help make it all happen, and Leonard needs to hear from those who plan to take part by June 1 so arrangements can be finalized; whether it be in the parade, providing an activity or catering.

You can find out more, sign up to help or donate to the cause by visiting http://july-fourth.us/, or you can give Gary a call at (208) 946-9579.