This year will mark the 25th anniversary of the Michigan Challenge Balloonfest and organizers wanted to kick things off with a bang. The event is held every year on the grounds of Howell high school and this year, a fireworks display will take place on the baseball field behind Highlander Way. A “safe zone” will be set up there and the area will be blocked off to the public. The Board of Education unanimously gave it’s blessing to the idea at Monday’s meeting after hearing some reports Howell Area Chamber of Commerce President Pat Convery, Howell Police Chief George Basar and Fire Chief Andy Pless. There were initial reservations on the part of public safety about the display, concerns have been addressed and there is a total of about $10 (m) million worth of liability insurance being applied to the event. There will be extra firefighters on duty and members of the National Guard for security. The district is also working to increase its presence at the event this year, which will take place June 26th, 27th and 28th. Convery explained that the idea came about when last year’s Balloonfest committee was attending a Lansing Lugnets game and saw the fireworks afterward. She says the fireworks will take place Friday night as a thank you to the community for its support over the past 25 years as that’s traditionally the night the most local residents attend.
(JM)