BRATTLEBORO — Organizers of Brattleboro's Independence Day celebration have passed the halfway point toward a $5,000 fireworks fundraising goal, thanks to a WTSA-FM radio-thon Friday that reaped several large contributions from local businesses.
The town's 43rd annual free family July 4 event is set to feature a morning parade downtown, and an afternoon and evening of sports, concerts, and fireworks at Living Memorial Park, according to a news release.
Brattleboro's Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, known for leading the annual march with its giant American flag, kicked off this year's fundraising efforts by contributing enough money to cover all parade costs.
The all-volunteer “By the People: Brattleboro Goes Fourth” citizens committee, collecting money for fireworks and other free park activities, used Friday's live WTSA-FM broadcast to announce major contributions from the Brattleboro Reformer and C & S Wholesale Grocers.
The radio-thon also received significant donations from Brattleboro Savings & Loan, which is serving as the effort's official bank, and the Holstein Association, Sovernet Communications, and the Richards Group.
Thanks to these and dozens of other community contributions, organizers have only about $2,000 more to raise to fully fund this year's July 4 celebration.
“We're very happy with our success so far,” Recreation and Parks Director Carol Lolatte said Friday, “but we still need support so we can continue to make this event free of charge.”
Marching units set to include the Brattleboro American Legion and Brattleboro Union High School bands, veterans, and civic and youth groups will kick off July 4 at 10 a.m. with a parade along Canal and Main streets to the Common.
After, the town Recreation & Parks Department will offer a series of public concerts, sporting events, and family activities at Living Memorial Park throughout the afternoon and evening until the fireworks start at 9:30 p.m.