By MARGARET L. WILLIS

The Burns Harbor 40th Anniversary celebration held Saturday, Sept. 8, was so successful it may lead to a yearly Fourth of July picnic in the town.

Residents have been talking about the event held at Lakeland Park.

“I’ve heard numerous compliments,” said Town Council president Jim McGee at Wednesday’s council meeting.

“From the food, to the entertainment. . .the music, it was great,” he added.

Resident Phyllis Constantine added her rave reviews, especially complimenting the fireworks display. “I don’t know if I’ve ever seen a better display,” she said.

The celebration drew many residents out to enjoy a fine day together, she added. “It was so great and the kids loved it.”

The Fire and Police Departments were on hand to provide fire and safety information and fit children with bike helmets and a bike rodeo was held. The Ogden Dunes K-9 unit visited, music was provided by council member Mike Perrine and there was food served as well.

Committee members included clerk-treasurer Jane Jordan, Council member Richard Bolinger, Toni Biancardi and Park Director Kim Burton.

Biancardi thanked the council for the monetary donation from the town that helped support the event and said that 21 local businesses also donated to the cause. And even though it wasn’t ultimately needed, Worthington Steel offered use of their property for the fireworks display.

Council member Bernie Poparad lamented he was unable to attend, but said he has heard only positive reviews from his family members who attended. His grandchildren “had a blast,” he said.

A town picnic for the Fourth of July would suit her and many residents, Constantine said. “Let’s set up an account for citizens to donate for fireworks.”

That concept could be realized, Poparad said, as long as the costs and liabilities of a fireworks show are fully realized. Only pyrotechnic experts can set off fireworks, due to the risks and those businesses are often booked more than a year in advance.

“If we’re going to do that, we need to find a company right now. They could be lined up years ahead,” he warned.

McGee extended his thanks to the organizing committee members and all the town department heads for all their work on the event.

Biancardi said the help was so great the organization fell together so well that committee members got to really enjoy the event too.

Posted 9/13/2007