Skydiving into Sperryville on the 4th
The Sperryville Volunteer Fire Department is once again organizing the 11th Annual Rappahannock County 4th of July Celebration at the Thornton Hill Hounds Race Course, and what an event-filled birthday party it will be. Better yet, there’s still time to become a much-needed corporate sponsor or underwriter.
Live music for the county’s Independence Day celebration, which can attract upwards of 4,500 people when the weather cooperates, will be provided by the Gold Top County Ramblers and Bobby G and Friends. Also in store are tables of food, skydivers, antique cars and tractors, local nonprofit displays, children’s games, face painting, kiddie rides, moon bounces, a cliff hanger slide, putt-putt golf, dunk tank, a medi-vac helicopter will be on display, and of course the spectacular fireworks display at dusk.
Needless to say, this annual celebration not only recognizes the nation’s independence, but facilitates a joyous atmosphere for Rappahannock County families, friends, organizations and businesses.
“This provides opportunities for local non-profit organizations to display their goods and to maximize on fundraising efforts,” organizers note. “The event also allows the local volunteer fire and rescue companies to enjoy partnerships with one another and, more importantly, the event provides fun and excitement for all ages.”
That said, Sperryville firefighters are happy to answer questions on how to still become a sponsor before the July 4 celebration. Collectively, last year there were more than 25 underwriter/corporate sponsorships.
“Because of increasing costs associated with putting on an event of this magnitude, continued underwriter support is needed each year in order to sustain the event at its current level,” organizers point out.
“With this in mind, very special thanks go out to our current underwriters: Jamie, Lilla and Bill Fletcher; the Hampton Foundation, B&B Signal Company, Cheri Woodard Realty, Gibson Rental, Greg Williams Tree & Landscaping Service, Greve Foundation, Pepsi-Cola of Central Virginia, and last but never least when it comes to supporting this community, Union Bank & Trust.
Each of the sponsors’ continued support allows residents and visitors alike to enjoy fellowship and celebration at a location that is arguably one of the most breathtaking horse-racing venues in Virginia.
Corporate sponsorship is $450, which includes a prime space on the infield large enough for a 20x20-foot tent, reserved parking alongside the infield, and special recognition during the entire daylong event. Details, as well as underwriter information, will be provided upon request through Gary Settle at gtsettle@hotmail.com.
Vendor information can be found at the website www.sperryvillefire.com, where volunteer Richie Burke is the contact at 540-987-8124.
Hats off to this year’s 4th of July Committee, including Gary Settle (Chairman), Greg Williams, Mike Leake, Richie Burke, Chucky Jenkins and Larry Grove.