4th of July Fireworks

Many of the people I run into around town think that the 4th of July fireworks here in Bozeman are put on by the City of Bozeman with their taxes.  They aren't.  The fireworks event is put on by the Gallatin Empire Lions Club.  These hardworking men and women volunteer their time to plan the event, run around town raising sponsorships, get everything set up, direct traffic, patrol the grounds (with help from the Bozeman Police Department), and clean up a big mess early the next morning.  It's a LOT of work, and they don't get paid for it.  The sponsorships (much harder to get this year in a weak economy) help pay for the fireworks, fairground rental, and miscellaneous equipment that must be rented, but all the labor (pre, during, post) is volunteer.  Any additional donations they get during the event are applied toward any sponsorship shortfall, and then the extra money goes right back to the community as charitable donations.  There is no charge to attend the event, and there hasn't been for at leat a couple years now.  So, if you have a job and can afford a buck or five or ten, please donate to the event when you see a Lion (bright gold vest) working there.  Make them feel that their time spent on this event is appreciated and worthwhile.  BTW, I'm not a Gallatin Empire Lion, but I know quite a few, and I certainly appreciate what they do for our community.

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posted on Wed, Jul 01, 2009 06:39 AM
last updated on Wed, Jul 01, 2009 06:39 AM
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fireworks paid with taxes? bytiredofbeingjudged July 01, 2009 (5 votes) (report abuse) (reply)
if they were, i'm sure someone would have a march to protest :P~
RE: fireworks paid with taxes? byAlphaBeagle July 01, 2009 (1 votes) (report abuse)
This just goes to show that people and organizations such as this don't have to rely on government to get things done. How much nicer it is that this is a voluntary thing, instead of something forced on us by government - be it local or federal.
Fireworks in general byRightof Left July 01, 2009 (0 votes) (report abuse) (reply)
"This just goes to show that people and organizations such as this don't have to rely on government to get things done. "

Except for the Tea Party?

Sorry, I just couldn't resist.

Now, on with the show.

I must say that the economic downturn has had one positive outcome. So far I haven't been irritated by fireworks every night beginning 10 days before the 4th. For the most part things are much quieter than in past years. My animals appreciate it as do I.

Hopefully on Sunday the 5th I will be treated to one final show and we will go back to peace and quiet. If there is one thing I hate, it is a fireworks display every night until August.

Rob, thanks for the heads up, there is 5 bucks in my wallet destined for the Lions.
RE: Fireworks in general byAlphaBeagle July 01, 2009 (3 votes) (report abuse)
You've never been able to get the fact that we as taxpayers ("we" including the tea party marchers) have ALREADY paid taxes to the city which has budgeted for things like parades. Otherwise, WHY HAVEN'T WE SEPARATELY CHARGED FOR EACH AND EVERY PARADE THAT COMES ALONG? When and if the city laws or practices change, and each organization (regardless of cause) must pay a street closure fee, the Tea Partiers I am sure will pay that fee. But do we really want to go there? I say let's do it the democratic way and put it to a vote - I would be okay with whatever results occur. However, I think you just have a "bone to pick" with the tea partiers. Get over it - you're a sore loser and we will be marching. The Tea Partiers could have raised the money to cover the parade no problem - unlike Brian Leland. The amount is really a pittance when you think about it - particularly compared to the expenses incurred by the Story Mansion, not to say our federal government. But small minds like to dwell on small things and ignore the 800-lb. government gorilla in the room.
Ms. Beagle a laugh every now and then is healthy byRightof Left July 02, 2009 (1 votes) (report abuse) (reply)
Relax and take a deep breath. Your quote just called, begged for a little needle. I provided it.

Believe it or not you are beginning to grow on me. I will be on Main St. on Sat. morning to participate and watch and maybe learn a few things. So lighten up o.k.?
Whoops! byAlphaBeagle July 02, 2009 (0 votes) (report abuse) (reply)
I gave you one star - when I meant to give you two (ha ha). I do get in a silly mood now and then - although such was not the case here. If you do want a chuckle, go to "Financial Woes of Green Gay Loggers". However, I get the feeling some people don't appreciate my sense of humor. I leave that up to you. P.S. - Nice to know not EVERYONE hates me here, ha ha.