Clinton Township

Businesses save local fireworks, concert

By Heidi Roman
C & G Staff Writer

Clinton Township event planned for July 8

CLINTON TOWNSHIP — It almost looked like it wouldn’t happen.

As Clinton Township tried to tighten its belt and look for areas to save money, the community couldn’t devote any money to a summer concert series or fireworks show — a tradition that began in recent years and quickly became a warm-weather favorite.

But 14 local businesses stepped up to the plate to ensure that families could still enjoy a free summer night together at the Clinton Township Civic Center, and see a great fireworks display when the sky darkens. A fireworks show, concert and other activities are planned for July 8 starting at 5:45 p.m. 

“I was really concerned about pulling it off this year,” said Trustee Dean Reynolds, chairperson of the Parks and Recreation Commission. “Part of the reason is because we had absolutely no seed money. With the budget constraints, we allocated no money (to concerts or fireworks).”

The Parks and Recreation Commission had to raise all of the money to hold the event and, as unlikely as they thought that would be in this economy, were able to collect $15,000 from local businesses.

“They really came through for us, and I appreciate that,” Reynolds said. “In these hard economic times, we need family programs like this that are free.”

Clinton Township used to celebrate summer with a concert series that featured musical performances on three consecutive Wednesday evenings in July, with one night topping the others with a fireworks display. The tighter budget forced them to cut the entire summer concert series and display out of the picture, but the donations and sponsorships from businesses have allowed the township to have one big night.    

“We’re very grateful to have at least one event,” said Parks and Recreation Director Linda Walter. “We’re sorry we can’t have a concert series, but this one night with all of the bells and whistles will be something for families to enjoy.”

Last year, organizers estimated about 2,500 people attended, and more are expected this year if the weather cooperates.

Pre-show offerings include children’s activities and a Walk Michigan program, both of which begin at 5:45 p.m.

Kids can blow off some steam before the show with inflatable moonwalks, slides and obstacle courses, get a glitter tattoo or ride a trackless train.

“Not everybody will get to everything since (the pre-show activities) are only two hours long,” Walter said. “Pick your favorite and make sure you spend your time there.”

Reynolds said local restaurants will be selling food and drinks — the only part of the entire evening that participants must pay for — and concession stands will also offer popcorn, hot dogs and other snacks. Families are welcome to bring coolers, picnics or blankets, but no alcohol is permitted.

Also during that time, participants can sign up to walk one mile on the path around the Civic Center for a chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip for two to Mackinac Island on Labor Day weekend to walk to bridge.

The Clinton Township Historical Commission is also getting involved with the event, and will have the Historical Village at the Civic Center open for viewing. At 7 p.m., the commission will dedicate a liberty elm tree and a new wishing well, which was built using bricks from an 1840s cistern.

The kids activities and walk end at 7:45 p.m., and at 8 p.m. the free concert begins.

“The band is Mega 80’s and they’re awesome,” Walter said. “They’re a great group.”

The band has performed at the Civic Center in the past and is always a big hit. The concert ends at 9:30 p.m., and the fireworks show begins at dusk — typically between 9:30 p.m. and 9:50 p.m. The fireworks are set to patriotic music.

The event will be July 8 at the Clinton Township Civic Center Gazebo, located at 40700 Romeo Plank Road. Parking will be available at Budd Park, weather permitting, located on Clinton River Road at Romeo Plank, and at Erie Elementary School, located on Romeo Plank north of the Civic Center.

For more information, call Parks and Recreation at (586) 286-9336.

You can reach C & G Staff Writer Heidi Roman at hroman@candgnews.com or at (586)218-5006.