The Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce and Foundation, Fireworks Project Team, the City of Bowling Green, and Bowling Green State University have announced that this year’s annual community fireworks will not go off with a boom.
Each organization shared their thoughts about what prompted the decision.
From BGSU: “BGSU is proud to support the BG Annual Community Fireworks, which brings our community together for a wonderful celebration, led by the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce. However, the state of Ohio’s guidance is clear that bringing together large groups of people increases the spread of COVID-19. While it is disappointing that we must cancel the fireworks event, the University believes it is in the best interest of public health and our community. We remain committed to working together to slow the spread of COVID-19 so we can all enjoy these events in the future.”
Mayor Mike Aspacher stated “This was a difficult decision for those involved to make. Based on the information available and with regard to the health and safety of all members of our community, I support this determination. We look forward to days ahead when we can join together safely.”
The Executive Director of the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce, Mary Hinkelman, stated “The decision to cancel the fireworks was unexpected. Conversations with BGSU as a part of our logistics meeting with the City brought new considerations to light. We understand the importance of keeping our community safe during this pandemic and that has been and always should be our first consideration. My heart aches for everything our community and our nation has had to forego this year. I think everyone can relate to the disappointment we are feeling after putting so much energy and resources into our planning, re-planning and especially the fundraising. We had hoped that things would improve so we kept making plans, but unfortunately they did not. The decision to cancel was in the best interest of our community.”
From the foundation: “The Chamber of Commerce Foundation is so grateful for the support of individuals and business this year when we are all realizing tough times. Donors can rest assured that these donations and sponsorships are in a fund for the fireworks and will only be used for this community event. We will continue to recognize these individuals on our website this entire year and 2021. There was still a ways to go in those fundraising efforts and we were just about to announce our next two events. We will pick up where we left off next spring.”
The Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce supports an environment for the development and success of business within the Bowling Green area. The BG Chamber of Commerce Celebrates, Educates, and Strengthens its Investors through business improvement events, grants, services, leadership, Legislative Updates and group savings programs. We are your Community Connection via ‘The Morning Show’ radio program WBGU 88.1FM, Wood County Safety Council, annual Awards, Holiday Parade and Fireworks. The BG Chamber of Commerce is Celebrating 82 years, Est. 1936.
