Plans begin for Fourth of July event

RUMFORD -- Five members of the River Valley Fourth of July Celebration Committee gathered on Nov. 27 to begin discussion for the third annual event.
They noted they are seeking more volunteers not only for the Fourth of July but anyone who might have ideas, improvements or fundraising thoughts that they would like to share with the committee. To help with this effort, contact Peter Perry of the River Valley Chamber of Commerce at 364-3241 or email www.rivervalleychamber.com.
At Perry noted that the committee has $1,130 to begin the 2013 effort after all bills have been paid, Committee Chairman Greg Buccina estimated they will need $13,000 to $14,000 to cover the cost of everything, about $10,000 of that for fireworks.
Presently, work is underway to draft letters to nine other River Valley towns for contributions. They should be mailed out by mid-January.
Buccina said the committee needs to fundraise as they try to do as much on their own to cover costs. Ideas include a spaghetti supper and well as a raffle to light the first fireworks of the event. They are also promoting their efforts for the first time over the local access channel.
The committee is also working on an effort to set a world record next July 4th. At present, the plan is to get the most people to wear flip  flops at an event.
The next meeting of the River Valley Fourth of July Celebration Committee will take place at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 8 in the Rumford Police Department’s conference room.