In two very short weeks we celebrate the Fourth of July. It will be the 11th annual celebration of the event put on by a little non-profit organization called Celebrate Kirkland, which seems to be more non-profit than ever this year. It is the first year that we are trying to put on the 4th with no support from grant funding or any city funds because there were none available.

It is a very tough time for all of us. All of our local businesses are suffering.

Many of our citizens have either lost jobs or been financially impacted by downsizing or the impact of the recession on investments. We have corporate sponsorships so far that will take care of almost $20,000 of the event. We have received a total of 37 donations from neighbors, supporters and small businesses ranging from $10-$500. In a normal year we would have well over a 100 supporters by now. It is probably a sign of the times, but a sad testimony to our ability to pull together as a community. As of today, we need another $25,000 in donations to make the Kirkland 4th of July happen. It’s on us. Please consider making a donation. I know we can do this, but it will take most of us to step up! Thanks! Donate online at www.celebratekirkland.org or via mail to KDA/Celebrate Kirkland, c/o Penny Sweet, 700 20th Ave. W., Kirkland, WA 98033.

Penny Sweet, Kirkland