Without You, It Won't Happen

Many people in Harford County think that the traditional July 4 festivities in Bel Air "just happen" or are a function of local government. In fact, everything is run by an independent, not-for-profit committee: the Bel air Independence Day Committee, Inc. And, of course, before the Committee can run the events on the 4th, it has to raise the money it takes to bring the whole day together. As the years have lengthened, costs - of everything from liability insurance to port-a-pot rental to band performance fees - have risen, until now it takes over $50,000 to bring off the day in fitting style.

Some of the events during the 4th themselves help raise these funds: the Pancake Breakfast, for example, is extremely important as a source of revenue, as are Light Rope sales at the fireworks displays, and entry fees for the parade. But the event needs more than can be raised those ways. Fortunately, the Committee doesn't go it alone. Each year, dozens - hundreds - of local businesses, organizations, clubs and individuals lend invaluable support to the Bel Air Independence Day festivities by contributing to the Committee.

As a result of such generosity, on every July 4th in Bel Air, about 5,000 men, women and children experience the daytime events; over 3,500 persons march in the parade, which is seen by (usually) about 45,000 spectators; and up to 85,000 people view the fireworks. It's a good bang for the buck (so to speak!).

This year, won't you or your business please consider becoming a sponsor? To find out how, please call Don Stewart (410-879-3535) or Michael Blum (410-893-1700).