Letter: Support Village's Fourth of July Tradition

To the editor:

July 4th in Ridgewood is a very special day that our entire area looks forward to all year.  In 2011, the Ridgewood Fourth of July Celebration Committee will sponsor its 101st anniversary on Monday July 4.  The day includes our flag raising, parade and fireworks.  This year's theme is "Celebrate the Constitution.”  The committee is an all-volunteer community group that coordinates the day's events and does not receive direct funding from the Village of Ridgewood. 

The Ridgewood Fourth of July Celebration began in 1910 when the local papers, the civic section of the Woman's Club and the Ridgewood Fire Department joined forces to create a “safe and sane” holiday with an emphasis on Patriotism.  It has grown into one of the largest celebrations in the New York City area and has been featured on CNN and Good Morning America as well as local New York stations.  The celebration was once again named Best Parade and Fireworks by the readers of 201 Magazine.

We are currently in the planning stages for what we know will be a spectacular celebration, and it is vital that we have community support.  Please consider helping to "Support the Tradition".  Because of generous support from the community, we have one of the best small town Independence Day celebrations, and if every family who enjoys the parade and fireworks contributed just $10, the day’s expenses would be covered.  Donations may be made online at www.ridgewoodjuly4th.org or by mailing your check Ridgewood Fourth of July Celebration, Inc., P.O. Box 140, Ridgewood, NJ  07451.

Additional information and answers to many of your questions can be found on the Ridgewood Fourth of July Celebration’s website at www.ridgewoodjuly4th.org.   

Thank you for "Supporting the Tradition,"

Margie Downs

President, Ridgewood Fourth of July Celebration Committee