Fundraising for the Fourth of July fireworks display was the main topic of discussion at the park board meeting on Wednesday. More than $4,000 still needs to be collected to make the Newton tradition a reality for the holiday festivities.
“We’re about half way there,” parks administrative superintendent Nathan Unsworth said.
To date, $3,800 has been raised with a goal of $7,500 to $8,000 needed by April to put on the fireworks show. Along with sending out sponsor letters, board member Amanda Price suggested trying the fireworks campaign at the local grocery stores again.
In previous years, “fireworks” donation cards shaped as rockets were sold at Hy-Vee for $1 each to help raise money. While the fundraiser took a couple of years off, Price thought it would be a good time to ask both Hy-Vee and Fareway if they would participate again this year.
“We could also ask if there are some left over if we could do it again in June to get a jump start on next year,” Price said.
Hy-Vee is also sponsoring the sand volleyball tournament. The city is still seeking a sponsor for the overall event, entertainment and kids area.
Additional fundraising efforts including a raffle were discussed as possible money makers for the event.
Unsworth also gave an update on various projects and events happening within the parks and parks department. He said the boulders purchased for Aurora Heights Park should be in place in May. Once they are set, additional amenities such as lighting and benches will be looked at for the area.
A steady stream of ash trees are being removed throughout the community, including in the city’s parks. Unsworth said starting in the spring the department will continue to replace the trees with new growth and has a focus area of Westwood for Red Pride Service Day.
Unsworth announced the summer concert series would move back to all Thursday dates after trying out different days last year. He said they did not find an increase in attendance moving them to additional days of the week and in some cases had a smaller turnout.
Contact Jamee A. Pierson at 641-792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com