Sierra Vista Rotary details July 4 schedule and says fireworks funded by private donations

Randy Susskind, speaking for the Sierra Vista Rotary Club on KWCD’s 1st Watch, outlined a multi-day July Fourth celebration and said the club funds the fireworks display through private and corporate donations rather than public money.

Susskind described events beginning Friday night and running through July 4: a Pets and People Promenade at 7 a.m., stage entertainment starting at 9 a.m., local bands including Bipolar Weather, and a ground fireworks show at the Stone Sports Complex. He said fireworks at dusk are expected to start between about 8:05 and 8:15 p.m.

"Rain or shine, the fireworks will go off," Susskind said, noting the club secures corporate and private sponsorships and does not use city funds to pay for the fireworks. He thanked partners that include the City of Sierra Vista and Fort Huachuca for logistical support.

Susskind urged courtesy and safety at the Stone Sports Complex: do not rush the field, remove tents when the fireworks begin so others can see, and do not bring personal aerial fireworks or charcoal grills; propane grills are preferred. He said local rules prohibit firing off personal aerial fireworks at the complex even though Arizona law allows fireworks on private property.

The Rotary volunteer-run event has run for decades; Susskind said this is the club’s 59th year putting on aspects of the celebration. He directed listeners to the Rotary Club’s posted schedule and sponsor information and encouraged attendees to follow announcements on local radio and the club’s social channels for updates.