I always thought they were ODd FeLLoWS. Does anyone know the secret handshakes, passwords or other top secret practices?

Matt Schrier for city counsel president

Actually, the funding for the fireworks has been troublesome for many years. Long before GM was having problems. Even when the JC's ran it they struggled for funding. The only time it wasn't an issue, was when Halbach donated all the money. So, you really can't blame it on that. It all comes down to the citizens support and donations. If that doesn't exist, the fireworks don't exist. Basic economics.

Just another result of losing GM and the associated jobs. People think money falls off trees in Janesville and that is especially true of the city council. Blaming the Odd Fellows is a lame attempt at shifting the real blame from citizens always looking for a free ride on someone else's buck.

The New Life fireworks are funded by thousands of dollars that the members of the church contribute to the cause. If nobody contributes to the cause for the other ones, there will be no fireworks. They don't just show up free of cost.

1. The econonmy, who has money to pledge?
2. I'd rather donate toward FreedomFest.
3. FreedomFest is a family orientated event, no drinking, smoking, and it's free.
4.The music is much better as well
5. Parking and traffic is much easier to deal with

DiGriz: What New Life does is something no one else in Janesville has, they put family first, making it a safe and fun family event. It's Christian based, so of course if you aren't a Christian you wouldn't "get it"

It's a little early to be drinkin' dontcha think griz?

Rock Around the block was organized by the downtown bars....Matt Schrier(owner of the looking glass) was a major figure in planning that!

Why don't we just ask New Life to do this, since they do such a good job each year. Maybe the only fireworks you get to see...

How about asking the Freemasons to take care of things this next year

This type of entertainment all costs money. If you aren't willing to donate anything, you can't complain.
-
Lost_city - Grow up. The hockey bit is getting really old.

Exactly what SarahB1 said.
.
I will reiterate my previous recommendation that the show does not need to be a full hour. The kids in my family would get bored after the first 20 minutes, and I have to admit it's not much longer than that for me before they all start to look alike. I would prefer a shorter show with more artistic flair, especially if that would reduce the financial commitment that has made this celebration struggle.
.
I know the rides and midway stuff also cost money. This should be looked at closely as well. I know I grew up to adulthood without ever once needing Fourth of July to be a mini 4H Fair.

what about the people that organize the Rock Around the Block? They do a fantastic job!

Kudos and thanks to the Odd Fellows for the wonderful job they have done in the past.
Unfortunately, this is a sign of the times, and
we will see more and more situations like this.

Maybe the great Janesville Jets will put on a show for the people of Janesville, because soooo many of us LOVE hockey!!!

If the glorious city council would have worked with Jim Halbach instead or screwing him over we wouldn't be worrying about the fireworks right now.