Independence Day celebration raises $10,000 for local charities

Organizers of Paso Pops, this year’s patriotic-themed concert and Independence Day celebration complete with fireworks sponsored by the Paderewski Festival in Paso Robles, delivered four checks to local non-profit youth arts programs totaling $10,000. The funds were raised from the 3,000 locals who attended the first-ever Paso Pops event on July 4th.

“Paso Pops was created to provide an annual Independence Day tradition for all members of the community,” said Steve Cass, Paso Pops’ producer and past president of Paderewski Festival. “We wanted something that would complement the county’s existing city celebrations, while providing recurring funding for youth arts.”

“Thanks to generous Paso Pops sponsors, businesses that contributed services at discounted rates, dedicated volunteers and a large community turnout, the inaugural Paso Pops did more than break even. As a result, the Paderewski Festival Youth Piano Competition and Student Cultural Exchange Program, San Luis Obispo Youth Symphony, Paso Robles Youth Art Foundation and Studios on the Park Youth Art Program each received checks for $2,500”, said Cass.

“And with the improvements we’re planning, next year’s Paso Pops should be a serious success that will provide even greater funding for the area’s local non-profit youth arts programs. Circle July 1, 2017 on your calendar for Paso Pops!”