A popular event to support the Port Clinton Area Fourth of July Celebration is back, said Committee Chairman Mike Snider . . . with twice the excitement, fun and most importantly PANCAKES!

On Wednesday, June 1 from 5-7 p.m. the pay-it-forward Bistro 163, 1848 E. Perry St., Port Clinton will play host to a drive-through pancake and sausage feed. And two weeks later, on Wednesday, June 15 from 5-7 p.m., Ala Carte After Hours at 223 Madison St., Port Clinton will repeat the process for dine-in or carry-out customers.

Proceeds from both “Pancakes for Pyrotechnics” extravaganzas will benefit the Port Clinton area’s 4th of July Celebration Committee and its efforts to celebrate the 4th of July to the fullest possible extent.

“Fireworks are our biggest expense at $10,500,” said Snider. “The contracts are signed. The fireworks company is coming to Port Clinton on the Fourth of July.  I’d prefer not to sell all of my possessions to pay for them!”

Since March, the fireworks committee has been holding an event to raise One Mile of Dollars. To date, this raffle has raised about one-third of their $10,560 goal.

“We work all year to plan a full day’s worth of events for all ages and interests. This year the day begins with a 5K fun run/walk hosted by the Port Clinton Women’s Club, Firecracker Cutie Contest at Trinity United Methodist Church, the popular Car Show on Adams Street, an inspiring concert by our local Voices of Freedom Community Choir also at Trinity, Duck Derby sponsored by the United Way of Ottawa County and the Grand Finale – FIREWORKS at Waterworks Park at dusk,” said Committee Member Amy Drummer. Both of the “Pancakes for Pyrotechnics” events are open to anyone with a free-will offering for the cause.

Donations may also be mailed or dropped off at the Port Clinton Chamber Office, 110 Madison St., Port Clinton, OH 43452. Make checks payable to the Chamber Foundation with the memo “Fireworks.”

For every $10 incremental donation, the donor’s name will be entered in the Rockets Red Raffle with a chance to win some amazing prizes. Plus, the single largest donor to the cause will get the opportunity to shave Mayor Snider’s head!