The Sons of the American Legion Squadron 50 in Iron Mountain has kicked off its annual Fourth of July Fireworks fundraiser. Again this year, the Iron Mountain Fire Department will do their part walking the Independence Day parade with the annual “Fill The Boot” campaign. The fireworks display will take place at dusk Friday, July 4, from Millie Hill in Iron Mountain. SAL has set Saturday, July 5, in case of inclement weather. From left are Capt. Chad Hedmark and firefighters Alix Loker, Dan Martell and Rob Theobald. (Marguerite Lanthier/Daily News photo)

IRON MOUNTAIN — The Sons of the American Legion Squadron 50 in Iron Mountain are once again leading the efforts to raise funds to light up the sky over Millie Hill this Fourth of July holiday.

The annual fireworks display from Iron Mountain’s east side will kick off at dusk on Friday, July 4. In case of inclement weather, the SAL has set Saturday, July 5, as an alternative date for the show. Updates will be posted regarding the schedule on the city of Iron Mountain’s website at www.cityofironmountain.com or Facebook page.

“With the community’s generous support, our annual budget has nearly tripled from what it was,” said Michael Laydon, who has served as chair and fundraiser for the community Fourth of July fireworks for the past 18 years.

The budget for this year’s program is roughly $19,000, which includes not only the cost of the fireworks, but equipment rental, insurance and promotion.

Although the cities of Iron Mountain and Kingsford, as well as Breitung Township, do contribute — monetarily, with manpower or both — this is not a municipally sponsored event.

“The majority of the funding comes from businesses and individuals in the community,” Laydon said.

Laydon noted that these funds allow the SAL to put on one of the largest displays in the Upper Peninsula. “The community can expect that again this year,” he added.

Iron Mountain Fire Department will again assist, doing their part in the fundraising efforts as they walk the Independence Day parade route with the “Fill the Boot” campaign.They will collect donations in a firefighter’s boot.

The SAL appreciates the support of the annual event. “Not only do Iron Mountain and Kingsford residents come to watch, the show attracts many from outside of the area,” Laydon said.

SAL is still seeking donations. Those wishing to contribute can make checks payable to SAL Fireworks Fund-2025 and mailed to SAL Fireworks Fund, P.O. Box 1046, Iron Mountain, MI 49801. Those who need to have a donation picked up can call Laydon’s office at 906-774-5357.

———

Terri Castelaz can be reached at 906-774-2772, ext. 85241, or tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com.