Fourth of July is quickly approaching. And the San Juan Island Chamber of Commerce is seeking donations to pay for this year’s fireworks display.
This year’s fireworks display will cost about $15,000.
“With the loss of a major sponsor and tough economic times, it will take every donation no matter how big or small to have a spectacular fireworks show this year,” Chamber Executive Director Vernadel Peterson said.
She said donations can be sent to San Juan Island Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 98, Friday Harbor 98250, or dropped off at the office at 135 Spring St.
“All contributors will be recognized following the Fourth of July holiday,” Peterson said.
The Fourth of July fireworks display is launched from a barge inside the harbor and astounds onlookers from miles around. This year, the Chamber received a contribution from the Seattle Yacht Club, which maintains a small marina in Friday Harbor. Club members discussed how they could best express their fondness for Friday Harbor and give something back.
“We understand that the present economic recession has generated a concern with regard to continued support of the annual Fourth of July fireworks,” John Rasmussen of the yacht club said. “A few weeks ago, a group of Seattle Yacht Club members, who consider this event to be a wonderful example of small-town Americana, ended their discussion by passing the hat to raise a contribution for this year’s fireworks.”
Peterson thanked the Seattle Yacht Club for its generosity, as well as donations received so far from:
Bed & Breakfast Association, Albert Jensen & Son, Islanders Insurance, Windjammer Cable, Lakedale Resort at Three Lakes,
Harbor Insurance Agency, Inc., San Juan Excursions, Archipelago Properties, Etta’s Place San Juan Island,
OneStop Storage LLC, Store-More Storage Inc, Rainshadow Photographics, Ferry Landing Suites, Trumpeter Inn Bed & Breakfast,
Ace Hardware of Friday Harbor, Vinny’s LLC, Sotheby’s International Realty, Maya’s Westside Charters,
Highland Inn of San Juan Island, Lonesome Cove Resort, Deborah Redbuffalo, Palace Theatre, Kathryn Chadwick, Elan Video, Island Bicycles, Nichols Street Suites.
