Lake Linden 4th of July festivities need community support

The Lake Linden Fire Department is on the lookout for a different kind of volunteer. It is actively soliciting businesses throughout the area to help put on its traditional 4th of July celebration. To defray some of the cost, companies can choose between giving $75 or $100 and that will earn them a spot in this year’s flyer. The larger donation will ensure that the business’ logo is included. The department is asking that all money be sent in by June 1st. Logos can be emailed to lakelindenvfd@outlook.com

The proposal is similar to what is being done in South Range, except there it will be an official t-shirt.

Chief Andy Kotila says plans are to return to normal this year, but there is still some doubt surrounding certain things.

Concerns about liability have led some Western Upper Peninsula communities to adopt new arrangements for Independence Day festivities. Bessemer, in Gogebic County, uses the high school’s football field for its fireworks display. The Board of Education has refused to rubber stamp the request this year, instead charging a nominal fee for the field to be rented. The move is designed to protect the district from lawsuits if someone is found to have contracted the virus over the holiday. Organizers everywhere continue to thread a fine needle as they attempt to bring back beloved community traditions.

Kotila says that the parade will continue into Hubbell and Dollar Bay, which requires some cooperation to pull off.