Fourth of July fireworks saved in Pingree
Pingree Grove residents will be able to enjoy Fourth of July fireworks after all, and will likely also get their first Fourth of July parade this summer.
Village President Greg Marston said he raised enough private donations to cover the cost of the fireworks, whose $12,000 expense had been cut in an effort to minimize the budget hole — now at $45,000 — predicted for fiscal year 2011-12.
The Cambridge Homes subdivision contributed $4,500 to the effort, and other donors kicked in additional funds totaling $13,000, Marston said.
“It was not a hard sale to our donors; most recognized how much the fireworks mean to the village residents and were very responsive,” Marston said in a news release.
In a phone interview, he added: “Our newly elected village board made it clear that a fireworks show is of great importance to our village, both to honor our country and armed services and to continue to promote a sense of community pride and friendship.
“With the board’s support, I undertook an effort to solicit donations to ensure that the event could be a success without relying on general taxpayer dollars.”
In addition, a newly reconstituted special events committee is organizing a parade along Wester Boulevard, followed by an evening of games and activities on the field next to the Cambridge Lakes Community Center, 1125 Wester Blvd., said Denise Wiedmeyer, special events committee chairwoman.
There will be children’s games, a disc jockey, food from local vendors, and drinks sold by nonprofit organizations such as Pingree Grove Cares, and A and S Rescue, a dog rescue group based in Antioch, Wiedmeyer said.
It was Trustee Robert Spieker’s idea to organize a parade, she said.
The festivities and fireworks would take place Saturday, July 2, with the parade likely stepping off at 5 p.m. from Wester Boulevard and Reinking Road, she said.
“We are hoping to keep people there for a few hours until dusk, when the fireworks start,” she said.
Those interested in volunteering or participating in the parade can call Village Administrator Bill Barlow at (847) 464-5533.