Let the fireworks (meetings) begin

This week the Crescenta Valley Fireworks Association met to discuss the Fourth of July fireworks show that will, once again, be in the 2800 block of Prospect Avenue.

The fireworks show has been a long-standing Crescenta Valley tradition. In previous years the celebration was held at the Crescenta Valley High School track and field, but with the construction of the new field in June 2006, the festivities could no longer be held there. The fireworks went silent for one year, then a group of community members decided to resurrect the show. They formed the association and, last year, the celebration returned with a bang.

Although still in the planning phase, the association is looking at how to make the 2008 program even better than last year. There was talk in the meeting of utilizing La Crescenta Elementary for the rides and entertainment, having the many food booths lined up on Prospect Avenue. The fireworks will continue to be supplied by Fireworks America.

The association members discussed how and when to begin fundraising for the show. The fireworks celebration is dependent upon community support and financing. Many local officials and organizations have been generous with donations, including Supervisor Michael Antonovich, Crescenta Valley Town Council, Crescenta Valley Chamber of Commerce, the city of Glendale and many businesses and private individuals. The Glendale Unified School District is also a partner in the event, by offering the venues of both the high school and La Crescenta Elementary School for seating, booths and firework storage.

Association President Rick Dinger said that the fundraising will officially begin April 1 with letters going out to public and private organizations.

The celebration is a community event that is sponsored and supported by the community, said Steve Pierce, association member.

For more information or to donate, visit their website at https://www.cvfireworks.com or call (818) 248-2271.

Donations can be mailed to Crescenta Valley Fireworks Association, 2629 Foothill Blvd. #176, La Crescenta, CA 91214.

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— Mary O’Keefe