By Sterling McGinn
Despite pushback from the Pentland Township Board, Josiah Sharrett and his Newberry Fireworks Association held their display as originally planned on Saturday, July 2 at Schubach Farms.
The event started in the afternoon with bounce houses for kids and other events along with food vendors.
Approximately 500 spectators were present to watch the display, which took place at dusk. “Everything was fantastic, everybody loved it,” said organizer Josiah Sharrett. “We actually had a longer show and bigger finale.”
The Pentland Township Board didn’t hold a special meeting to approve the necessary permits, due the association not completing the application. “We don’t need the permit,” said Sharrett. “Nobody can legally tell me I can’t do it during those dates.”
According to Pentland Township Clerk Greg Rahtje, the township has no police power to enforce the event. “It’s up to local law enforcement and state fire marshal,” he said.
