Stories
Fourth of July Barbeque a Huge Success!

The Rotary Club Barbeque was an awesome lead-in to a very exciting fireworks show

 
As the Fourth of July Barbeque was winding down, our guests from points North, South, East, and West were jostling for the best view of the one of the most exciting fireworks shows in Southern California.  During that time, they were treated to one more of the constant supply of beautiful sunsets we tend to have here in Bear Valley, better known as Paradise in the San Bernardino Mountains.  A more beautiful beginning to the evening couldn't have been bought no matter how much money was offered.
 
The real news of the day though was the success of the Rotary Club's Fourth of July Barbeque itself.  Once again, the Rotary Club volunteers, their families, Interact, and everyone involved simply knocked this event out of the park.  A true Home Run.  Newly installed Club President Keenan Warner was heard to say: "Human vocal chords aren't capable of making sounds that adequately describe how proud I am of everyone involved.  I could not be more more grateful for the hard work, comraderie, and planning that goes into making this wonderful event a success, and a magnificent success it was!"  At least that's what the author thought he heard President Keenan say, and if Keenan didn't actually utter those words, well he surely thought them!
 
Let's not forget though that most of the planning and hard work took place under now-Past President Michael Beveridge's watch.  Well done President Mike!
 
Ron Peavy deserves his own special mention for his 20th year of helping get this event off the ground.
 
It should be noted that there are dozens of names the author hasn't mentioned.  To ALL of you, MANY THANKS.
 
Of course, as with all events of this nature there were hiccups here and there.  The new check-in system for pre-purchased tickets got off to a rocky start but in short order was running smoothly with a little help from Matt McCabe from the Visitor's Center.  Interact and the Club Members manning the Hydration Station kept everyone happy and, well, hydrated.  Nottinghams and The Barnstorm Restaurant did an AWESOME job of getting everyone fed.  This author is proud and humbled to have been a small part of such a large and awesome team!  Congratulations everyone, WE DID IT!
 
By the numbers...
 
A total of 1,386 tickets were either sold or comped.
 
Gross ticket sales grossed a total of just under $46,000.
 
1,105 people passed through the check-in point.
 
VIP and Reserved sections completely sold out, with more than 100 people in each section.
 
I don't have numbers for the Hydration Station or Interact's Water/Soft Drink sales, but when I do I'll update this story.
 

The fireworks

As always, the volunteer Pyromaniacs were instrumental in putting on a show that seems to get better (if that's at all possible) year after year.  Their hard work getting the barges ready and coordinating the show needs as much KUDOS as is possible because we all know THEIR event is what brings the visitors up the mountain.  Every vendor in the valley should send money to the volunteer Pyromaniacs (okay that would invalidate their volunteer status, but they're worth it!).
 
According to KBHR, the show ran approximately 22 minutes and a very exciting 22 minutes it was.
 
Thank You Volunteers.  Without you, your hard work and your dedication, none of this would be possible.
 
We salute you!
 
 
 

President Keenan and his beautiful parole officer Lindy

Just thought I'd throw this picture of President Keenan Warner (hard at work!) and his beautiful wife Lindy in for good measure.  
Russell Hampton
National Awards Services Inc.
Sage
ClubRunner