The figures are not in for our town-wide canvas, but the deadline for names in the program was May 31. You can still make a donation up to and on the Fourth of July, but they will be acknowledged in The Andover Beacon instead of in the Fourth of July program.

We hope you will support this celebration. It has been an Andover tradition for 74 years. It is an expensive event to produce. Many towns have given it up due to fundraising issues. Let’s not be one of them.

In addition to the canvassing, the Fourth of July Committee is having its annual raffle with some very nice prizes. Grevior Furniture in Franklin has generously donated an oak coffee table with a top that raises to make it higher and allow storage inside. It is valued at over $400. There is also a beautiful red, white, and blue crocheted afghan donated by Susan Aste of East Andover and a basket of Made in New Hampshire products.

We actually have a second raffle going. Donna French donated a beautiful bracelet, valued at over $100.

We have sold raffle tickets at Town Meeting and at the May Swap Shop day. We plan to be at the June Swap Shop day, too. Drop by and take a look at these great prizes and pick up some tickets for yourself and your family. They are $2 each, or six for $5. A few raffle tickets would make a nice gift for Dad on Father’s Day.

You will also have an opportunity to buy tickets on the Fourth at the Andover Lions Club Pancake Breakfast and on the Village Green. The drawing will be at the end of the day, or on the rain date if necessary.

Remember: Donations are tax deductible!