When asked about the recent Freedom Celebration and the three new events added to the already popular fireworks display, Springfield Township Administrator Michael Hampton stated, “We weren’t sure what to expect. To be honest, I think there were a few who thought we were, shall we say, ‘ambitious’ to offer four activities on the same day. At one point, I might have agreed—however, we attained 138 percent of our participation goals for the Firecracker 5K; the HEROhustle was a crowd favorite with more than $1,300 raised for the Turner family; the Village of Holland’s market received high marks from all 20 vendors and attendees and we are still receiving compliments from attendees and vendors who tell us that it was, again, one of the best shows they’ve participated in. The best part is that, thanks to the commitment from our trustees and the almost 70 sponsors, attendees enjoyed everything we offered without admission or parking fees.” Firecracker 5K participants did pay registration fees.
From the opening ceremonies, which took place prior to the start of the Firecracker 5K, organizers brought attention to those whose sacrifices (through the armed services, law enforcement and first responders), ensure the freedoms that we enjoy as citizens of the United States. “Special emphasis was given to the memory of Pvt. Sterling ‘Butch’ Rahe, who served both the Toledo and Springfield fire departments for more than 30 years prior to his death in January, 2024,” Hampton continued, “We did not hesitate when it was suggested that the event be dedicated to Butch. When that dove was released, there was a collective silence in the park—and there were many eyes, including mine, that were more than a little damp.”
The committee knew it was important to balance the day’s solemn beginning with a little fun, so the HEROhustle was staged as runners and walkers returned from their 3.1 mile trek around Homecoming Park’s new fitness trail and soccer fields. How can you not laugh when you see 10 grown adults suit up as dinosaurs and race for charity? “Hustlers” included Lucas County Commissioner Lisa Sobecki; State Representative Erika White; Holland Police Chief Jim Piotrowski; Springfield Schools’ Superintendent Matt Geha; Springfield Fire Battalion Commander Charlie Butler; former NFL player Bryant Koback; Stone Oak resident Preston Fryzel, who recently committed to continue his football career at the University of Notre Dame; 13abc meteorologist and Holland resident Dan Smith, and Scott Wilson, who represented awards sponsor Culver’s. After highly contested heats and the finals that ended in Fryzel literally winning by a dino nose, the crowd disbursed with many heading to Strawberry Acres to check out the first “marketplace” hosted in the park.
At 5 p.m., Homecoming Park was again filled with music, food trucks, family activities (thanks to the Springfield Area Prevention Coalition), sponsor and community booths and, of course, the popular Springfield tradition of rides around the park on the vintage fire truck. “At times, the sense of community was almost palpable,” Hampton concluded. “Offering free, safe and quality family-oriented activities for all to enjoy is why we work so hard throughout the year—and we aren’t even close to being done. Next up is the Village’s ‘Picture in the Park’ on Friday, July 18, in Strawberry Acres Park (starting at 7 p.m.), followed by the 6th Annual Wicked Wheels Car Fest in Homecoming Park on Wednesday, August 6, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., and we end in September with the 6th Annual 419 MusicFest in Homecoming Park from noon to 11 p.m. There is more information on our website (springfield township.net).”
Those with questions are encouraged to email events@springfieldtown ship.net.
