Tamra Spade was pleased with the overall results of the Fourth of July festivities in Ripon.

She noted that the same could be said by those attending last Monday’s five-hour family event consisting of various food vendors, live music, Kids Zone, flag tribute, light show and the fireworks show at the Mistlin Sports Complex.

“We’ve received plenty of positive feedback,” said Spade, who is the CEO / President of the Ripon Chamber of Commerce. “Some even called it one of ‘the best shows ever.’”

This was the first year of the Ripon Chamber Foundation – a non-profit dedicated to local youths by providing scholarships, assisting in business trainings, and supporting the likes of the Ripon Youth Chamber Leadership Program – taking over this Independence Day extravaganza from the City of Ripon.

The Ripon Police Department’s Explorer Program received some of the proceeds by handling the parking at Mistlin.

“As a non-profit, the Chamber (foundation) doesn’t see a dime from this event,” said Spade, adding that 10 major sponsors made possible this year’s Fourth of July event.

Next up for the Foundation is Soaring Over Ripon, formerly Color the Skies. The hot air balloon festival will again take place during the Labor Day weekend (Sept. 3-4) at Mistlin with kites, vendors and a carnival.

“(The Foundation) hosts three events a year,” Spade said.

LobsterFest on Sept. 10 at the Ripon Community Center is the other Chamber Foundation-sponsored event.

This is Southern cooking featuring lobster being served up family style.

Information on upcoming Chamber events can be obtained by calling 209.599.7519 or emailing info@riponchamberfoundation.org.

To contact reporter Vince Rembulat, e-mail vrembulat@mantecabulletin.com.