Ramona Rotary Still Raising Funds for 4th of July Fireworks

Ramona Rotary, which hosts the annual July 4th Family Picnic and Fireworks program on the soccer field behind Olive Peirce Middle School, is a little less than halfway to its goal of raising $20,000.

Most of the money is needed to pay for the 25-minute firworks skyshow, which is accompanied by a patriotic music program aired by KYXY FM Radio. The rest of the funds are used to provide equipment for the event that begins at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 4.

Donations are needed by June 15 in order for sponsors contributing $200, $500, and $1,000 or more to be listed in the event program and on Rotary-provided banners at the event and to receive their VIP parking passes.

Anyone interested in making a donation of any amount can send a check made out to "Ramona Rotary Foundation-July 4th" and mail it to Ramona Rotary Club, PO Box 276. Ramona 92065. Or call Sharon Schlumpberger at 789-9402-by June 15. Donations are tax-deductible.

Admission to the event is free, and there will be food booths, activities and entertainment. Those coming to the event are welcome to bring their radios and tune them to KYXY during the fireworks show, as well as blankets, umbrellas, low-back chairs and even picnics. No alcohol is allowed on the schoolgrounds.

Local nonprofit groups are invited to set up food booths or to host activities or sell novelty items, ensuring that any funds generated at the event go back into the local community through these nonprofit groups.

No commercial booths are allowed - and no food or novelty items or - activities can be duplicated, other than drinks. Rotary will be selling lighted novelty items, such as necklaces and headbands, as its own fundraiser during the July 4th event, and no other lighted items will be allowed on the grounds.

Bob Vaughn is in charge of the booths and activities and has applications available. Call him at 789-8398. Booths are on first come-first served reservation status, and vendors provide their own set-ups. Fees are $50 for a 12x12 space and $70 with electricity.