Detroit fireworks show continues for yet another year

Yes, I told you all to stay tuned for comments about "Defiance" and "Falling Skies" at the end of Animals predict the World Cup in space, but other than a couple of cursory comments, I'm not really feeling it tonight.*  Instead, I want to follow up on what I wrote in last year's Detroit River fireworks show continues.

Last year, I commented on the possibility that there might not be a fireworks show this year.

Based on what I think motivates Americans to act and the presence of the Michigan State Police and Wayne County Sheriffs at the show, I'm sure that the fireworks and parade will continue. People want their entertainment, especially if it comes in the form of an annual civic ritual to celebrate the seasons, and messing with America's entertainment is the one guaranteed thing that will get Americans to act.

The fireworks show was held again last night with a lot of help from the Michigan State Police...

The security efforts of the police seemed to have worked.  That should mean more fireworks next year.

Speaking of events continuing next year, this year's Thanksgiving parade has already been scheduled.  Take that as evidence that, while Detroit may go into bankruptcy, the entertainment people demand will go on.

I already commented on last year's parade in Detroit's Thanksgiving Parade--the tradition continues and Detroit Thanksgiving Parade--Battle of the Bands.  Tonight's entry is about the fireworks show, which is indeed being held--tomorrow (Monday) night.  Follow over the jump for the news about the event.

First, the press release from PR Newswire via Broadway World: The Ford Fireworks To Light Up The Detroit Skyline On Monday, June 23.

The Ford Fireworks will light up the sky, Monday, June 23, at 10:06 p.m., with views of the Detroit River in downtown Detroit. Created and produced by The Parade Company, this annual event now in its 56th year, attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators for one of the most anticipated summer nights in Detroit.

"We are extremely grateful for Ford Motor Company's continued support of The Parade Company and look forward to working together on this Detroit tradition," said Tony Michaels, president and CEO, The Parade Company. "Ford consistently strives to make the Detroit region stronger. This partnership speaks volumes of their commitment to our community."
...
"Ford Motor Company is honored to partner with The Parade Company to support one of Detroit's signature annual events," said Jim Vella, president, Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services. "Ford is deeply committed to our community, and we are proud to be a part of bringing people together to celebrate our great city."

That's the corporate PR.  Here's the news from the Detroit Free Press: Restrictions could cut down on fireworks crowd Monday at Belle Isle.

When thousands of people pack the Detroit riverfront for the city’s annual fireworks spectacular Monday night, one popular viewing area could end up being a bit less crowded than in years past.

Since Michigan State Police took control of patrols at Belle Isle — the city’s sprawling 985-acre island park — the agency has been cracking down on everything from speeding to open containers of alcohol in an effort to make the park safe and family friendly.

The crackdown on the island has resulted in more people choosing other parks and plazas instead. In fact, the Detroit Police Department has created a new parks detail in response to the shifting attendance patterns.

Ron Scott, of the Detroit Coalition Against Police Brutality, said there’s a feeling among some African Americans that they are not wanted on the island, and they have started to select other locations.

I didn't expect that as an outcome of the state takeover of Belle Isle, but I guess I shouldn't be surprised.  After all, the City Council rejected the state running Belle Isle the first time around, and they might have been anticipating something like this.

Also, the Detroit Police and Michigan State Police aren't the only law enforcement agencies involved, as WWJ reports.

Since the display extends along international waters both Homeland Security and the Canadian government are actively involved in the overall planning.

As for parking, WDIV lists the available locations, as well as other transportation options in Parking, transportation for the 2014 Ford Fireworks.  The People Mover will operate until Midnight and parking meters will not be enforced after 6 P.M.  Parking garages downtown will also be open.  If people are avoiding Belle Isle, then this is good news.  So is this from WWJ.

"The three barges are used because we wanted the width … it’s an event for Detroit and all the audiences of Detroit, and surrounding areas, we wanted it as wide as possible.”

Morris told Newsradio 950 that the show has grown dramatically over the years and there will be some changes this year, as they look for fireworks to fly higher this year so folks from a wider audience can see the show.

The people have demanded their entertainment, and thanks to Ford and the City of Detroit, they're getting it.

*All I have to say right now are comparisons to other shows after watching the season premieres.  The first season of "Defiance" reminded me of "Babylon 5," except on Earth.  The second season so far confirms that impression.  "Falling Skies" looks like "The Walking Dead" with aliens instead of zombies and other people as the antagonists and allies.  Given that I've mentioned "Babylon 5" only once until now, and that in passing, while I've mentioned "The Walking Dead" in at least nine entries so far, it should come as no surprise that I like "Falling Skies" more.