Volunteers, donors made gala a success

For the past two years the borough of Sayreville has celebrated our nation's independence with a day of festivities leading up to the fireworks at night, "the bombs bursting in air." This year there was a spectacular performance, not only by the musicians, but also by the volunteers who stepped up to make this celebration a memorable one.

The Sayreville Recreation Advisory Board, led by Chairman Bill Tumbleson, and the Independence Day Committee, made up of Lisa Eicher, Kevlyn Zurowski and Dawn Brophy, perfectly planned each part of this day. Through the hard work of the Sayreville recreation director, Jerry Ust, a majority of the event was funded through sponsorship and outright donation. Starland Ballroom donated the services of all the stage performers; items for the hot-dog-eating contest were donated by Bear's Hot Dogs; and many, many dollars were collected through local businesses and through advertisements.

I want to personally thank the Recreation Advisory Board, the Independence Day Committee, Jerry Ust, and all of those who donated their money to help put on a spectacular show. I would be remiss if I did not also thank the volunteers who handed out flags and programs and those who manned the games and painted faces and had events for the children.

I would also like to thank the Borough Council members who participated, Business Administrator Jeff Bertrand, Chip Eicher and DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) Officer Chip Blazas.

All of the proceeds from these events go directly to the wounded soldiers coming home who defended our country to preserve our independence. We celebrate our independence as men and women overseas and here at home preserve our independence each day.

As I left the park that night and saw the thousands of people and as I drove home and the streets were lined with people enjoying the fireworks, I felt proud to be a part of this celebration, but more importantly, I was proud to be celebrating our independence.

Dan Buchanan

member

liaison to recreation

Sayreville Borough Council