Sponsors keep tradition alive

EAST LONGMEADOW The East Longmeadow Jaycees will delight spectators with what promises to be the biggest and the best fireworks display in East Longmeadow history July 3 at 10 p.m.

Thanks to the generosity of sponsors Teddy Bear Pools and Spas and Singer Potito and Associates, the Jaycees have been able to continue the annual display.

Four years ago, the Jaycees committed to one final fireworks display as the costs of the display, as well as the police, fire, and school fees charged the Jaycees for this event, were increasing. The cost of putting on the display exceeds $20,000 annually.

It was at that time that Ted Hebert of Teddy Bear Pools and his friend Michael Potito of Singer Potitio and Associates decided to seek out the Jaycees and pledge their support of the fireworks. Hebert also brought a new fireworks company to the Jaycees. He assured the Jaycees that this company would bring the fireworks display to a new level.

Instead of decreasing their support of the fireworks, as a result of the continued generosity of Hebert and Potito, the Jaycees have been motivated to increase their funding of this event.

"The fireworks are a tradition in the town and an incredible finale to the East Longmeadow Jaycees Summer Carnival," said Todd Mackechnie, carnival co-chairman for the East Longmeadow Jaycees. "Teddy Hebert and Mike Potito are partners in this great event and we could not give this town the display it deserves without their incredible support. On behalf of the Jaycees, I would like to thank them for their continued support and friendship."

The Jaycees Summer Carnival will take place from June 29 until July 3. There will be a children's matinee on Sunday and there will be live entertainment nightly.

Anyone who would like to make a donation to the fireworks may make checks payable to the East Longmeadow Jaycees and mail them to the Jaycees at P.O. Box 3, East Longmeadow, MA 01028.