Guest column:RB must rally to save event
It was disheartening to read last week’s article in the News Journal about the uncertain status of the Spirit of the Fourth, San Diego’s oldest and largest 4th of July celebration.
Having served as a board member for seven years and the non-profit’s president for three, I have a first-hand understanding of the challenges faced by this organization over the years. I also have a deep respect for the team of volunteers that assembles every year to put on a first-class, grassroots, all-American Independence Day celebration. To see this tradition fade away due to a lack of community support would be a tragedy.
Most people don’t understand that this event doesn’t “just happen.” It’s not funded by taxpayer dollars, homeowners dues, or a wealthy benefactor. Real people, with real jobs, families and conflicting priorities find time to organize, fundraise and sacrifice their spare time to pull off this monstrous task. They’ve done this every year, for 47 years.
Fundraising was never an easy task. High school bands cost money. Fireworks cost a lot of money. Police support, security, generators, porta-potties, permits, tents, etc... you get the drift. Imagine throwing a picnic for 30,000 people. The bulk of the expenses was always covered by a minority of generous citizens, local sponsors and the dedicated Freedom Club. The only reward these contributors received was seeing a smile on a child’s face as she watched the parade and hearing the “oohs’” and “ahs” during the fireworks show.
In the years I served on the board, we achieved solvency each year by managing costs, aggressively pursuing corporate sponsorships and grants, and partnering with civic organizations like the Kiwanis and Rotary clubs and Knights of Columbus. Without the support of each of these channels, the event would not have been a success. We maintained the reserve, even added to it modestly, to save for a time when the event would need it. That time has come. These participants and others like them need to be involved to ensure this tradition continues into the future.
Rancho Bernardo is San Diego’s finest community. Events like the Spirit of the Fourth are sewn into the fabric of RB’s character and highlight its dedicated local businesses and loyal citizens. I encourage everyone who has enjoyed this celebration, for even just one of the past 47 years, to contribute to its success this year. Volunteer on the board or at the event. Donate to support the parade and fireworks. Become a Freedom Club member. Sponsor part of the event and align your business with a storied local tradition. Do something. Your community will thank you.
DeMatteo is a Rancho Bernardo resident.