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Aqua Jays say they’re near fireworks funding goal

Photo

Joel Shapiro

JANESVILLE — The Rock Aqua Jays still need to raise about $7,500 to pay for this year’s fireworks.

The water ski show club Monday is hosting the second annual Fourth of July Independence Day on the Rock and had raised almost $10,000 as of Wednesday.

Featured will be music, food, a beer tent, a garden tractor pull, inflatable jump houses for children, anything that floats contest, idol contest, ski show and fireworks.

About $17,500 is needed to pay for the fireworks that will be a couple minutes longer with a bigger finale than last year, said Joel Shapiro, event chairman.

“We’re down to the wire but believe the community will pull together and make this happen. From the get-go, we said at a minimum we need to get enough to pay for the fireworks, and we believe we will. So, in no way is the event in jeopardy. We’re contracted for the increase in time and a little bit more bang in the grand finale,’’ he said.

The Aqua Jays are happy to host Fourth of July festivities again this year, Shapiro said.

“It’s bringing back the tradition of fireworks on the Rock River at Traxler Park,” he said. “For many years, the community has come to expect that regardless of different fireworks going on in the area or across town.’’

The economy is still sputtering, so it’s important that the event is free, Shapiro said. Donation containers will be placed throughout the park on the day of the event. There is no cost for parking, and admission is free.

“There’s so much to do,” he said.

Those prefer sipping a cold drink and listening to classic and contemporary rock, blues or country can visit the beer tent, where RuffCutz will perform for four hours in the afternoon.

Those opting to eat out can choose from snacks, sweets, pizza, Chinese food and Mexican food at the Taste of Janesville food vendors.

“There’s a good variety,” Shapiro said.

Two canopy tents with picnic tables will be pitched near the inflatable jump houses.

“Families can sit down and eat, or have a place to sit while keeping an eye on their kids while they play,’’ he said.

Area talent will perform during the Janesville Idol Contest starting at 3 p.m.

Shapiro said the Anything that Floats Race and the Rock County Pullers garden tractor pull will provide plenty of fun, safe entertainment.

IDOL CONTESTANTS SOUGHT

The Janesville Idol Contest at the Fourth of July Independence Day on the Rock is open to those 12 and older.

Those who want to compete can visit idayontherock.com for more information. Entries on the day of the contest will be accepted only if spots are available.

The winner will receive a $100 gift certificate to Knapton Musik and the opportunity to perform the National Anthem before a Rock Aqua Jays show in front of a crowd of about 4,000 people. The runner-up will receive a $50 gift certificate to Knapton Musik and the option the sing before an Aqua Jays show.