Preserving a Tradition

I was not at all surprised when results of the recent community survey showed overwhelmingly that Lincoln's annual Independence Day festivities were the favorite weekend/event(s) of the year. I was very surprised however to subsequently learn that a 20-year, full-time resident was unaware that our amazing annual fireworks display is and has always been sponsored (paid for) by the Lincoln Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Our community's parade, rodeo and fireworks show is understandably a source of pride and tradition for countless families in and around Lincoln, as well as out of state visitors who make July 4th weekend a "won't miss" vacation. The weekend also represents a very significant boost to the local businesses.

The festivities always culminate with 'big city fireworks in a small, proud town'. In fact, many families drive in just to enjoy the fireworks show. Regrettably, the cost of fireworks has continually risen year after year; more than doubling in the past 10 years for the same quality/level of display. This year alone saw an 8-15 percent increase (depending on the 'boomer' tube) from last year.

Prior to 2020, a portion of proceeds from the Lincoln Community Benefit went a long way toward covering the cost of fireworks. Unfortunately, COVID necessitated cancellation of the benefit two years running. The combination of significant cost increases with no benefit proceeds have placed a strain on the Chamber budget, throwing future displays as we know it in jeopardy.

The current direction is to develop an ongoing, sustainable revenue stream designated exclusively for preservation of Lincoln's fireworks show. Our hope is to raise awareness among those in the community who want to see this tradition continue at the same level and encourage contribution to the preservation efforts. What might that look like??

Donation Jars: For many years now, donation jars have been placed in several community businesses from May thru July. There is power in numbers and every penny, nickel, dime, quarter and dollar truly will make a difference, so keep this in mind with each visit to these locations: D&D Market, The Pit Stop, Grizzly Hardware, The Wilderness and Mountain View Co-op mini mart.

Annual 'Boomer' Sponsorship: Started three years ago, the opportunity to purchase a firework boomer in honor of memories or loved ones has been well received. Offered at four different levels, the sponsorship forms are distributed as inserts in two separate editions of the BVD. The next insert will be in the June 16th edition and forms are always available at the BVD office or Rusty Relics. Individual sponsorships are published in the BVD edition following July 4th giving special recognition and thanks for your memorial boomer.

$500 worth of fireworks RAFFLE: Last year the Chamber successfully inaugurated the annual raffle for $500 worth of fireworks! Not only is this a fundraiser for the community fireworks display, the package is purchased from the Lincoln PTSO's annual sale, benefitting this important local organization as well. Tickets are $5 each or 6 for $20 and can be purchased directly from Chamber board members and at the BVD office (Rusty Relics). The Chamber also plans to sell raffle tickets during both days of the rodeo, with the actual raffle drawing taking place (and winner announced) just before the 'Ring of Fire' on Sunday.

Proceeds from these efforts are safeguarded for the fireworks show ONLY and the support from both our businesses and our residents is greatly appreciated.

Let's work together to preserve the tradition.