If you're in North Andover on the evening of July 3, you'll probably be looking skyward to catch the annual Independence Day Fireworks.
Nobody will be hoping for more perfect viewing weather than the folks from DMSE Sports and the Merrimack Valley Striders. After all, they donated the funds to make it happen.
"We know that North Andover, like all communities, struggles with its budget, and it's often expenditures like this that justifiably have to get cut when funds are tight. We wanted to help keep the spirit of the 4th of July. And what is more traditional than an old fashioned fireworks display?" said Dave McGillivray, DMSE (Dave McGillivray Sports Enterprises, Inc.) president.
"With a race that typically draws about 1,000 runners, including the fireworks expense of nearly $10,000 may not seem rational to some, but there are some things that are more important. This race has been around since 1978 and has been an integral part of North Andover's Independence Day celebrations. Being a good partner with the town is important for us."
MVS member Tom Licciardello concurs, "As a non-profit, MVS's obligation is to use its resources to encourage and enhance the sport of running.
"We do that in a variety of ways, such as providing coaching services for both adults and youths at all levels of capability. This year, our Feaster Five Race raised over $60,000 for charitable causes including the Merrimack Valley YMCA and Merrimack Valley Hospice, and just last month we awarded eight $500 scholarships to area seniors, and we helped fund the cost of resurfacing the North Andover Middle School track."
DMSE and MVS both share the passion for running and giving back to the community. McGillivray started the DMSE Children's Fitness Foundation that supports nonprofit programs that use running as a primary means of promoting physical fitness in children.
Beyond his foundation, he has had a lifetime involvement with events that have raised millions of dollars for worthy causes.
Since MVS was founded in 1979, its mission has been to share the benefits of physical fitness through running.
"We are fortunate to have always had passionate members of our club who recognize that giving back to the running community and the community at large is important. They give generously of their time, and no member receives compensation other than the satisfaction of helping to encourage a healthy lifestyle," says Licciardello.
"We're encouraged that the weather forecast looks favorable. It will be a perfect way to conclude a great day of races and kids events."
To learn more about the North Andover July 3rd Race and Kids Mini Olympics, log onto their Web site at www.najuly3.com.
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