After a long day of celebration, the Spirit of the Fourth activities ended Monday with a fireworks show and artistic performances at Bernardo Heights Middle School.

Organizers estimated about 4,000 people came to the fireworks show, many more than the 2,500 or so who came last year. RB Idol finalists, including winner and recent Poway High School graduate Matthew Billman, had the chance to take the stage once more after performing earlier in the day. Native singer Eve Selis also performed throughout the evening with her band.

Winners of the "What is your American Dream?" essay contest also had the opportunity to read their winning works for the crowds stretched out on the grassy field. The winners were Raquel Ann Kemper of Pomerado Elementary School; Garrett C. Weir of Black Mountain Middle School; and Matthew Weir of Mt. Carmel High School. The winning essays can be seen at SpiritoftheFourth.org. 

Attendees were not charged admission to the fireworks show but were asked to donate $20 for a family or $5 per person to help cover the costs for next year's show. Organizers said the entire Spirit of the Fourth event costs between $70,000 and $80,000. Donations can still be made at SpiritoftheFourth.org.

San Diego County Supervisor Pam Slater-Price and the RB Recreation Council sponsored the fireworks show.

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