Like just about everything else nowadays, a lack of money is having an effect on Dover’s traditional Independence Day celebration.
As in years past, members of the city’s Fourth of July committee plan a presentation to remember for Dover citizens. Along with the American Legion Walter L. Fox Post No. 2 parade through downtown, shows on Legislative Mall will feature the Delaware National Guard’s 287th Army Band, the National Guard’s obstacle course, pony rides, tractor-train rides and a moon bounce.
All Heritage Parks of Dover sites will be open throughout the day as well.
The show will be capped by a fireworks extravaganza, one that will leave people breathless, said committee president Greg Patterson.
Unfortunately, because donations to the celebration haven’t matched those of previous years, the light and sound show may have to be curtailed, Patterson said.
“As of this week, we’ve only raised a little more than half our $21,000 budget,” he said. “It’s been a very tough year for fundraising, but I don’t think anyone would be surprised by that.
“Many sponsors have reduced what they’ve given before and others have not been able to contribute at all,” Patterson said.
About two-thirds of the show’s budget goes toward the fireworks display, he said. The rest is needed to rent the inflatables for some of the children’s activities and to provide necessities such as portable toilets and the like.
The city of Dover assists the committee by providing sound equipment, electricity and security, Patterson said. All other expenses come from private donations.
Other features of the show include a flyover by a Dover Air Force Base aircraft, the Dixieland Band of the Milford Community Band, and presentation of the colors by the Dover AFB honor guard.
And, of course, lots of food from numerous vendors.
“You’ll be able to watch the parade, camp out, have some food and listen to some great music,” Patterson said.
One thing that’s new this year is the firing of fireworks at the conclusion of the 287th’s performance of the “1812 Overture” in coordination with Army ordnance specialists firing off cannons. That will lead into the main fireworks program.
“People really seem to like the fireworks,” Patterson said. “It’s become such a part of our traditions now, and people really look forward to it.
“If they haven’t been paying attention to things up to that point, they will then,” he said.
Even at this late date, Patterson noted there still is time for Dover-area residents to help with donations to the Fourth of July party.
“We’re optimistic,” he said. “We’ve been getting a decent response to our renewed efforts, and hopefully we’ll have a full show.”
Those wishing to make a monetary donation to the Fourth of July Committee can do so by visiting www.dover4thofjuly.com.
Families can sponsor individual firework shells at the patriotic price of $17.76 each at the same website.
The 2009 Dover Fourth of July continues the expanded events of the last few years.
