To the editor:

My name is Patti Nenna, and I have been a long-time member of the 4th of July and concert committee and assumed responsibility as sub-committee chair in 2019. Our budget in 2024 for the concert series had a $12,000 loss. Although the "Love in Bucket" is greatly appreciated, the amount raised at the 2024 concert series was $16,522. The average collection each night was less than $2000. The majority of the monies comes from sponsorship. I would also like to note the number of hours that the small but mighty team puts in during those two weeks is beyond compare. The calculation of my time alone was 135 hours from load in to strike and at 1 p.m. till the park was clean at the end of every evening.

The vote on 11/19 was not made lightly but based on information provided. I respect everyone's right to an opinion, but I would like to remind everyone that we are a volunteer organization and all the funds we raise are from sponsorships, fundraisers and donations.

If you would like to be a committee member, applications are still open until 2/1/25 on our website: fourthofjulybristolri.com.

Thank you for your time and Happy 4th,

Patti Nenna
Greg Drive