New Leetsdale July 4 committee looks forward to fresh start

A new board for Leetsdale’s Fourth of July committee is ready to switch up things with the borough’s traditional Independence Day activities.

Rebecca Gazda, the committee’s new treasurer, said the committee that consisted of members who volunteered for three decades decided to retire last year. The current committee consists of Gazda, president Laura Mastrorocco and secretary Hanna Boyd.

“This responsibility is a lot more involved than I realized it would be, but we are excited because we have all these plans in mind,” Gazda said.

The borough held a firework show instead of its usual parade and carnival last year because of covid. Gazda said the committee is looking to hold a big celebration in 2022 for Leetsdale’s 75th annual parade.

“We are trying to do things much more interactive with the community,” Gazda said.

To expand the celebration, Gazda said the committee is inviting community organizations to build their own floats to participate in the parade. Other additions to the parade may include clowns, antique cars, bands and more. The committee is looking at $40,000 to $50,000 to pay for the entire celebration. The committee has raised $2,000 so far.

”It is expensive. If we do the full firework show and parade, you have to pay every single person,” she said.

Mastrorocco said fundraisers will be held in throughout the year. The committee will hold the Leetsdale Snowflake Classic 5k and 2 Mile Fun Run/Walk on Nov. 6 and a carnival will be held next year to raise funds.

“We are looking forward to community support and putting our spin on events,” Mastrorocco said.

“I am super excited because it is a really great event in the community that brings everyone together. We are looking forward to making a few changes to put our own take on the Fourth of July,” Mastrorocco said.

For more information about the committee and any updates, search “Leetsdale 4th of July” on Facebook.