SANDPOINT -- "Because of great support from local individuals, businesses and raffle ticket sales, the Lions expect to have a really impressive fireworks show on the Fourth," according to a press release from Sandpoint Lions Club.

The local organization has been sponsoring the city's Independence Day festivities for more than 50 years. It pays for all permits, fees, stipulated costs, insurance, supplies, prizes, and most important of all -- a professional pyrotechnics show, according to the club.

Most of the club's funding comes from raffle ticket sales prior to the event. Tickets are $5 apiece or $20 for a book of five tickets. Volunteers sell them throughout the area in May and June at retail locations, including Walmart, Yokes, Super 1, and the Co-op. Those who purchase books have the chance to spin a prize wheel for free tickets, club members said.

The Lions Club is giving away five raffle prizes this year. First prize will be a Polaris side-by-side ATV. Second prize is $2000 worth of Bonner Bucks, negotiable anywhere within the county. Third prize is $1000 cash, fourth is an unlimited season pass for Schweitzer Mountain and fifth prize is two Silverwood day passes, according to the release. The prize drawing will take place on the evening of the Fourth.

The holiday festivities begin Monday, July 4, at 9 a.m. with a children's parade. Up to 200 children ride decorated bikes or wagons through downtown. Entry is free, and each participant receives a goodie bag with treats and prizes.

The Grand Parade ensues at 10 a.m. and ends around noon. This year's theme is "America on Parade," and the grand marshal is Wendy Sater, owner of the Hoot Owl Cafe and longtime community supporter. Pre-registration for entries is $25 or $30 on the morning of the parade is $30. Veterans groups can enter free, according to the club.

Parade registration forms are available at the Bonner County Daily Bee, 310 Church St., or on the Lions Club website at www.sandpointlions.com, which accepts credit cards. Participants can also call Lions member June Dull at 263-4019.

Free ice cream, courtesy of the Lions, is on tap for kids later in the day at City Beach while the fireworks show starts at dusk.

While the Fourth of July gala is arguably their most popular event, the club is active year round, raising funds for various causes. These include Toys for Tots, food for the needy during the holidays and the Easter Egg Hunt at War Memorial Park. The local Lions also sponsor eye and hearing screening checks for nearly every elementary school student in the Lake Pend Oreille School District, as well as purchasing eyeglasses and hearing aids for local children and adults who cannot afford them. The Sandpoint Lions Club awards scholarships to local high school graduates, too, according to club officials.

The public can contribute to the Fourth of July fund by purchasing raffle tickets from the Sandpoint Lions Club or making cash donations.