July 4th fireworks being planned for 2014

Marquette’s newly formed 4th of July Fireworks committee has already made a down payment on the 2014  Mattson Lower Harbor display.

Enough money has been raised to make a $9,000.00 down payment to secure the pyro-technicians.

“We were well aware that we would have to fundraise this year in order to assure Marquette County that there will be fireworks over the July 4th holiday,” said Tom Baldini, Committee Chair. “We were thrilled to be able to sign the pyro-technicians’ agreement and send them the first deposit that will assure a spectacular display over Marquette’s Lower Harbor. We are truly blessed with our Lake Superior venue and the people making the fireworks possible. Without our sponsors, we were facing a 4th of July
celebration devoid of fireworks. We have wonderful, driven committee members and liaisons with Marquette’s Fire Department, DDA and Visitors’ Bureau, Chocolay and Marquette Townships and Michigan’s Army Reserve all coming together to make this happen. The Committee is now tasked with raising the remaining funds for 2014 and for securing an arrangement that will sustain the event.”

The Committee reports that it has been meeting with Marquette’s Board of Light and Power to propose creating a sustaining mechanism for all of Marquette County fireworks-goers to contribute a dollar per month on their utility bills as a way to fund the annual fireworks display. This is a way for all to give a little yet attain a great result.

The new Board is spearheaded by: President Tom Baldini – retired District Director for Senator Bart Stupak, Vice President Pat Black of the MCVB, Treasurer Mona Lang of the DDA, Secretary Christine Pesola of the Landmark Inn, and Directors Rosemary Smith – Eagle Radio Group, Jerry Irby – former Mayor of Marquette & retired Prudential Insurance agent and NMU educator; Sue Heliste – Lake Superior Community Partnership, LeAnne Kachmarsky, Select Realty and Chair of Marquette Township Community Events Committee; and Dan Freberg, Harvey Branch Manager of Marquette Community
Federal Credit Union and Chocolay Area Business Association.

Marquette’s annual fireworks draw approximately 35,000 people. It costs $45,000 to to
put on a show like the one July 4th, 2013.