For the sixth consecutive year, Clarkston’s RE/MAX employee Denise Felker is planning a Hot Air Balloon Rally to benefit the Children’s Miracle Network.
“It is a great event. Everybody comes out and has a good time,” event organizer Felker said.
The event began six years ago with eight hot air balloons and raised only $137 for the charity. Last year the event had grown to include 32 balloons and raised $12,000. The goal for this year is to continue to grow.
“Our original goal was to thank the community that we earn our living from and raise money for a good cause. We thought the balloon rally would be a great way to accomplish both goals,” Felker said. “All the money raised stays in the area at William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak.”
The event is set for Aug. 8 and 9 at the Groveland Oaks County Park in Groveland Township. Friday’s events and activities include tethered balloon rides, a climbing wall, inflatable gym equipment, a “rag balloon” moonwalk, a massive sunset balloon launch, an evening “balloon glow,” food and a live d.j. Saturday’s roster includes all of the same activities as Friday, except there will be no evening “balloon glow.”
“There are a lot of activities to do in the park. It costs $5 for a family to get admitted and then everything else is on a donation basis. This gives a family an opportunity to have a day of fun at a reasonable price,” Felker said.
Of the more than 30 balloons already confirmed for this year’s rally, some of the highlight balloons include the Post Cereal Sugar Bear Balloon and a new Children’s Miracle Network balloon, which will be making its debut performance at the rally.
“We have gotten a lot of great support to make this event happen. The Oakland County Parks are the main sponsor and really help us out. We have accomplished everything we set out to accomplish. The support of the community has been amazing,” Felker said.
Individuals come in with their hot air balloons from all around the country including California, Florida and Ohio.
“The Children’s Miracle Network is really a great cause,” Felker said. “No child that needs care is denied and they do great work. Anything you can think of they do. It is important for people to realize all the money will stay here locally.”