Balloonfest ‘86

Balloonfest '86 was a 1986 event in Cleveland, Ohio, United States, in which the local chapter of United Way set a world record by releasing almost one-and-a-half million balloons.[2] The event was intended to be a harmless fundraising publicity stunt, but the balloons drifted back over the city, Lake Erie, and landed in the surrounding area, causing problems for traffic and a nearby airport. The event also interfered with a United States Coast Guard search for two boaters who were later found drowned.[1] In consequence, the organizers and the city faced lawsuits seeking millions of dollars in damages,[1] and cost overruns put the event at a net loss.

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Comments

Financial loss and public relations disaster? The United Way won't know the full meaning of those words until William Aramony's shenanigans will be uncovered some ten years later.

Posted by KDP on 07/19/21 at 09:57 AM

In the 70's and early 80's we were "required" to donate money to the united way. If we did not donate, or donate enough, we received memos from the city manager "encouraging" us to increase the amount given. Those who gave "acceptable" amounts were favored sons and daughters. They were often given points for promotions. I usually gave only $1 per year when pressured. Have never donated to united way after about 82.

Posted by Steve E. on 07/19/21 at 10:57 AM

Thanks, KDP, for a blast from the past. I hadn't realized just how sordid the Aramony scandal was until I read the Wikipedia article on him.

Posted by ges on 07/19/21 at 11:32 AM

"As God is my witness, I thought turkeys could fly!"

Posted by FRANK on 07/20/21 at 12:30 PM

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