‘They come down:’ Balloon releases harmful to animals, environment; experts offer alternatives

They are a sad reminder of lives lost: Balloon releases have become a staple of mourning and vigils throughout Wisconsin.  In Milwaukee, balloon releases can occur on a near-weekly basis, with dozens of balloons sent up into the sky to honor a lost loved one.

On Saturday, April 6, hundreds attended an emotional gathering at Milwaukee’s Rose Park to mark the passing of slain rapper Nispey Hussle.  The artist was shot and killed Sunday, March 31 in Los Angeles.

“I think of a balloon release as thanking a person for the life that they lived and the legacy that they left behind,” said the vigil`s organizer, Miela Fetaw.  Thirty-three balloons scattered in the sky -- one for each year Hussle was alive.  Each one carried an unintended message.

Meyer’s list of balloon release alternatives:

• Water ceremony
• Seed bombs
• Painting rocks
• Planting a tree
• Light a candle
• Memorial garden
• Organize a charity fundraiser in your loved one’s name
• Organize a neighborhood clean-up

   ...more

Ken Notes: Yes this like rice at weddings in the past needs to change. The releases are beautiful but not good for the environment at the end of the flight. Plant a tree for me...