Dear Holly citizens and friends of Holly,

My name is Fred Hopper and I have been fortunate to be the guy who shoots your fireworks for you on the Fourth of July since 2001. I also live in Holly, and have since 2001. My wife’s father grew up here and moved back to Holly in the 1980s.

During our times of economic emergency, it was decided at the Holly Village Budget meeting last night (1/20/2010) that the village, as a governmental organization, would not fund the fireworks for the 2010 Fourth of July holiday. It was a hard decision for the council to make, and this was one of a number of discretionary expenses that were not funded. 

Our council recognizes that this is an activity and a day that the vast majority of our neighbors enjoy and participate in, with their own gatherings and activities.

Although it was a disappointment, I agree with the decision. If it is a choice between required services and personnel, and a party, it must be the party that does not happen.

With that said, the Village Council assured me that we could still have the fireworks display, and all of the activities throughout the day that our community has come enjoy if a source of funding can be found. I have been in contact with a few folks who are willing to help with the costs, but more money will be needed if the display is going to happen this year, and probably in the near future. 

This display has historically cost the village between $6,000 and $8,000, and that money is just not available this year, so I am asking for donations from the community. Individuals, businesses and benefactors can all help out.  If we all contribute a little bit, we can have a great display and a great holiday and make this a true Holly display.

I have started an account solely for the gathering of funds for the Holly fireworks at Citizens Bank, called the Holly Fireworks Fund. Any donations can be made directly at any Citizens Bank, or checks made out to “The Holly Fireworks Fund” and mailed to me at:

The Holly Fireworks Fund
c/o Fred Hopper
112 N. First Street
Holly, MI 48442

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