Fourth to be a blast: fireworks ordered

Gary Leonard, chief of the Paradise Valley Fire Department, said he has the fireworks ordered and plans are in the works  for an outstanding Fourth of July this summer.

Last year the events at the fairgrounds did not take place. It was a dark and quiet Fourth of July in Bonners Ferry.

Leonard wants to make sure that is not the case this Independence Day.

Leonard who is also running for sheriff,  started his Fourth of July plight a few months ago.

He needs to raise money for the plan and so far has raised $1,700 with a $5,000 goal.

Leonard is trying to schedule a parade in downtown Bonners Ferry first to start around 4 p.m. Anyone interested in participating in the parade can,  they need to let him know who they are so he can let the city know how many people will be in the parade.

He would also like fun activities set up at the fairgrounds.

“I am trying to get all the fire departments together for a firefighter challenge people can watch,” Leonard said.

He is also looking into other entertainment so people can go straight to the fairgrounds after the parade, or having dinner downtown, for entertainment and activities before the grand finale of fire works takes place at 10 p.m.

Leonard said there will be one food vendor so far, and that is Boundary County Parks and recreation at the fairgrounds, however he would love to see people take advantage of the downtown restaurants as well.

“Also Rod Benders will be there displaying their cars parking them for [people to see,” Leonard said.

Leonard would like to hear from people who would like participate in the event by June 1. He needs to have everything ready and calculated and numbers for the city so he can continue with the plans.

“I would also like the candidates to set up tables with their information and a place to register to vote.” Leonard said. “One of the most important things about voting is being informed and I think this will be a great way for candidates to introduce themselves.”

Leonard has a web site set for  people to see who has sponsored the event so far,  and to send him an e-mail of they are interested in participating n the parade, event or just to volunteer to help.  

Gary Leonard can also be reached at 946-9579.