PORT TOWNSEND — The scary economy is threatening every aspect of modern life, so it should be no surprise that the local Independence Day celebration is in financial jeopardy.
For nine years, the Port Townsend Sunrise Rotary has sponsored the July Fourth fireworks, capping off the holiday with a colorful, sparkling display.
It takes advantage of the aquatic vantage point, towing a barge out into Port Townsend Bay and firing shells that light up the summer sky.
The fireworks are scheduled to begin at around 10 p.m. Sunday and will last about 22 minutes, according to John Eissenger, who runs the event.
It is best to not start the display until it is completely dark, but there is some community pressure to begin before it gets too late for the children, according to Eissenger.
Even if it is not completely dark at that time, the east-facing vantage point from Fort Worden will enhance the display, according to Eissenger.
Eissenger said the ability to go out on the water is an advantage because it provides a safety zone.
“Having the water lets us use the six-inch shells with less hazard than it would be on land,” he said.
The fireworks show costs $16,000 to produce, $10,000 for the fireworks and $6,000 to rent the barge.
At last count Rotary had raised $6,200, leaving a $9,800 deficit.
While conditions could change, the Rotary board has decided that if it cannot raise enough money to pay for this year’s celebration it will not sponsor the fireworks display in 2011.
While contributions are trickling in at $25 to $300 a day, Rotary is sponsoring an on-site fund drive at Fort Worden, hoping people will contribute on the spot.
“Every year we draw from 6,000 to 7,000 people to the fort,” Eissenger said. “If we can get everyone who comes to contribute a dollar, we will have almost covered our costs.”
On Sunday, Rotarians will be selling glow necklaces to benefit the cause and will stake out the parking lots with five-gallon jugs to accept donations.
“People don’t have to contribute in order to see the show, but they can just give whatever they think the show is worth,” Eissenger said.
Aside from contributing on site, checks are accepted at P.O. Box 1474, Port Townsend, WA. 98368.
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Jefferson County Reporter Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or at charlie.bermant@peninsuladailynews.com.