The all-volunteer Brandon Independence Day Celebration Committee has been hard at work on a couple of fronts.
Fireworks. Northstar, the Vermont-based company that took care of our fireworks needs for many years, was sold to an out-of-state company. The new firm sent over a contract at a cost of more than 50% higher than what was paid last year. The committee could not justify a fireworks show that cost $20,000 for a town the size of Brandon. They also did not want to start a Go Fund Me campaign for fireworks, as other Vermont municipalities are currently doing. A lot of work went into finding an alternative and the committee is thrilled to announce that the Brandon Fire Department will be taking care of the show this year. BFD members will be going to special training and will procure everything needed. The best part is that the cost to BIDCC will be the same as last year and BFD will earn some revenue for the department after all costs are paid for.
Theme. The theme of the Parade ties into our nation’s celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and celebrates what unites us. The committee is hoping for many historical tie-ins for floats and marching units. If you have an idea and are not sure how to make it happen, please reach out. The committee has a costume mistress ready to help make every idea a reality. So far George Washington, Abe Lincoln and Betsy Ross are coming. Who do you want to be?
Thanks. A huge thank you to the Brandon voters for approving the appropriation to BIDCC on election day. A lot of hard work by volunteers goes into the celebration all year long but it takes some cold hard cash to make some things happen.
Reach Out. If you would like to participate, volunteer, or have questions or ideas, please reach out to Chair Jessie Mohan at [email protected] or by phone at 914-629-4820.
