Celebrate the Child organizers seek county help for fireworks and balloons at April event

Melissa Palermino, chair of Celebrate the Child, told the court the event will be held April 25 at the high school from 3 to 7 p.m. The 35th annual event will feature fireworks, hot-air balloons, a petting zoo and live music, and Palermino asked commissioners to contribute toward the fireworks and balloon costs.

Several magistrates offered discretionary contributions on the record. A magistrate representing District 1 offered $500 and pledged to cover any remaining needs from district funds; other magistrates discussed splitting donations and pledged a combined $600 at one point during the exchange. Court staff (Candice) was designated as the person to receive checks and coordinate donations.

The request was taken as an informal pledge of support rather than a formal appropriation; no formal county appropriation was adopted during the meeting. Organizers asked for publicity and volunteer help as the event approaches.