SarahB1, what problems in Milton are you talking about? None of the problems that are going on in Milton now are not already happening in Janesville.

How the HELL does anyone expect Milton and Janesville to combine the firework shows? That is what makes the communities different and in my opinion, Milton better.

I went, spent $40 on really crappy rides after telling my kids they weren't allowed to go on either of the "in the air" rides. This year, the rides looked like they were going to fall apart at any second. I spent $28 on games for the kids, and, ended it with Junk food from the place. I did spend less than in other years, but, the rides were so minimal, and, shabby feeling. I understand that some people can't afford tickets to Six Flags or Noah's Ark or whatever and this is a 'treat' for them, but, these rides honestly were the worst I have ever seen- anywhere.... I would like to keep the event here, but, there does need to be some modifications made in order to make it sustainable.... I don't pretend to know what those would be, there have been many great ideas, but, as is, every year I swear I won't go back.... Something needs to turn around to make it worth it....

Also, Milton has enough problems right now ... not everyone wants to go there to see the fireworks.

tinker34: We don't need a parking ramp downtown and I can only guess what a new ice rink will cost us in the near future ... so, I still say the city can set aside several thousand for fireworks. To expect service clubs to take up this duty is too much ... the poor economy has hit them also.

I agree that municipalities could combine to create an exceptional show!

two nights - fireworks only - can always add to later depending on interest. keep it clean and simple

In this economy I certainly don't expect my tax dollars to go towards fireworks. Milton puts on a 4th of July event so maybe we could combine our events and split the cost.

It's a big hassle with all the traffic and mosquitoes for a 10 min...if your lucky... show.
Kill it now and let it die a peaceful death.
Who can afford it??? NOT ME! If you start with business support now and keep track of who gives what..then next 4th if you don't have enough by June give it back and no one loses money.

sorry you can't just move money around like that. The money that is being received through grants or whatever- MUST be used for what it is designated for.
I'm sure the city is very strapped for cash as many articles have reported. Rhythm and Booms in Madison is also done in part (if not all) by donations. They pass around pots to collect. I don't know if that is how it is completely funded.
I do know that Freedom Fest is a great event and more support seems to be in favor of their event that is safe, drink free and overall inexpensive for rides and food. This is supported by churches and their members- SOOO if the community wants something that still provides alchol- some kind of organized donation drive is in order.
I personally don't attend any of these- but watch from my house. I do donate to the church though.

exFIB: I agree with you. I think the City should start by dedicating the $20,000 it will earn annually on the junior hockey league to the fireworks.

Why can't the city pay for the fireworks like every other WI city? Is the city that tight that they would rather let the fireworks display go away than to foot the cost? 1 bike tunnel would pay for 15 years worth of fireworks. It's time the residents spoke up and demand that this city provides what the residents want instead of what they think is good for us.

it's not a good question. i want to see the fireworks display. i think the carnival, if losing money, should end. in the posts on the original story, someone mentioned all of the options we have -- and that the rides were of dubious safety standards.
keep the fireworks.
kill the carnival -- or do something for one day only.