The Niles Four Flags Area Chamber of Commerce members were proud to once again sponsor the 2012 Fireworks last Tuesday, July 3, to celebrate our nation’s 236th birthday.

Many people have told us over the years they didn’t realize that the Niles fireworks are totally funded by donations. We do this letter to thank our Chamber members for the generous contributions that they make, to thank the volunteers who donate their time year after year, and to thank the people who made donations at the gates for parking.

Without these contributions, the fireworks would not be possible.

Each year, a lot of planning goes into the show. Contracts for the fireworks must be completed, food and beverage vendors lined up, traffic control is coordinated with our city’s finest — and we have about 35 volunteers to help direct traffic and collect donations at each of the gates.

Our special thanks to the Berrien County Civitan Club, the Niles Noon Optimist Club, Niles-Buchanan Rotary Club, the City of Niles, Niles Community Schools, Brandywine Athletics, Michiana Recycling Co., Joy’s Johns and the F & F Fireworks Company for this years’ fireworks display.

I would also like to thank Chamber staff members Kelly Rock and Lisa Atwood for their hard work, planning and support of this community-wide event.

Ron Sather

President and CEO

Four Flags Area Chamber of Commerce