Chamber looking for a bang on nation's 250th birthday

FORT MADISON, Iowa – The Fort Madison Area Chamber of Commerce is once again preparing for one of the community’s most cherished Independence Day traditions and is seeking support from local businesses and residents to help make this year’s celebration a success.
For more than a decade, the Chamber and its predecessor organization, Fort Madison Partners, have proudly led the fundraising efforts for Fort Madison’s annual fireworks display. Funded solely through donations and sponsorships, the display has become a highlight of the community’s Fourth of July festivities, drawing families and visitors from throughout the region.
As the nation celebrates America’s 250th birthday, the Chamber hopes to make this year’s fireworks display even more memorable. However, rising costs have made community support more important than ever, with the annual display now costing more than $16,000.
The Fort Madison Chamber Fireworks Display will take place on Friday, July 4, at dark. Fireworks will be launched from the west end of Riverview Park by J&M Displays, a professional pyrotechnics company with more than 45 years of experience and roots in Southeast Iowa. For the safety of spectators, the west end of the park will be closed during setup and the display.
The Chamber is grateful for the many businesses, organizations, and individuals who have already contributed to this year's fundraiser. Donations of any size help support this long-standing community tradition.
In addition to supporting the fireworks display, community members are encouraged to consider making a contribution to the 114th Annual Charlie Korschgen 4th of July Kiddie Parade, another beloved Fort Madison tradition that has brought smiles to generations of local families.
As a thank-you for their support of the Fireworks:
• Donors of $250 or more will be recognized in a group social media thank-you post.
• Donors of $500 or more will receive individual recognition on social media and in the Chamber Connection.
• Donors of $1,000 or more will receive a check presentation photo shared with local media, on social media, in the Chamber Connection, and in the Chamber's weekly newsletter.
• Donors of any size will be recognized in a post-event press release.
To date, the Chamber has raised $12,350 towards its $16,000 goal.
Those interested in supporting either the fireworks display or the Charlie Korschgen Kiddie Parade are encouraged to contact the Fort Madison Area Chamber of Commerce at 319-372-5471 or chamber@fortmadison.com. Donations can be mailed to 614 7th Street, Fort Madison, IA 52627.
Together, we can continue the traditions that make Independence Day in Fort Madison a celebration to remember.