New Rochelle residents got to watch parades and fireworks this year thanks to community donations that helped the city pay for holiday events.
Fourth of July fireworks and the Memorial Day and Thanksgiving Day parades were saved by donations from the community to keep those events alive during a tight budget year.
The city created the fund to help maintain the city's traditional celebrations that were not included in the city’s 2012 budget.
"At a time of fiscal challenge, public-private partnerships can help us preserve beloved community traditions," said New Rochelle Mayor Noam Bramson in a statement. “We are grateful for the support of institutions and individuals who have already come forward and invite others to join us in the weeks ahead.”
The Fourth of July fireworks lit up the night sky thanks to a donation from Sane Enlightened Life Force (S.E.L.F.) Help Foundation, Inc. and other community partners.
“The donation was given out of respect for America and love for New Rochelle,” Guru Madeleine, S.E.L.F. founder and president said in a written statement. “In keeping with our mission statement, it is up to us as individual citizens to show we care, and participate as vibrant members on every level. This gift was an opportunity to put our faith into action.”
Funding for the 2013 celebrations is still uncertain.
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