Photo: Jay Rendell
Every year, White Bear Lake produces a magnificent fireworks display on Independence Day, bringing together families and friends for a tradition that goes back generations. Thousands of people come by land and water to watch the show from Optimist Beach.
The volunteers who make this happen every year are a very special group and have been creating this magic for years! But what’s going on behind the scenes? It takes year-round work to plan, organize and raise the funds to make the evening a success.
This year’s volunteer committee members are Dick Galena (chairman), Bill Foussard (fundraising), Gene Altstatt, Pete Carlson, Rick Juba, Bill Matschke, Kim Perkins, Mark Sather and Frank Watson.
They plan and manage the complex logistics of the event with the City of White Bear Lake, area police and fire departments and the Ramsey County Water Patrol to ensure safety.
The White Bear Lake Fireworks Fund began with the City of White Bear Lake and today is a nonprofit that is totally funded by local businesses and individuals. Your tax deductible donation of any size is welcome. (White Bear Lake Fireworks Fund, c/o Bill Foussard, 4701 N Highway 61, White Bear Lake, MN 55110)
So, be sure to join your neighbors for this year’s fireworks!
In celebration of the dedicated volunteers that uplift this community, the Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation spotlights a noteworthy citizen or initiative of the White Bear Lake area in each issue. Learn more at gwblcf.org.
