READY TO STYLE FOR AMERICA’S 250TH BIRTHDAY CITY FIRED OFF DUD LAST YEAR
Following a debacle of a Fourth of July fireworks show last year, the Milledgeville City Council has decided to seriously step up its game.
The council recently approved a resolution that sets aside $20,000 for this year’s display, a 48 percent increase over last year. On top of that, City Hall is entering into a contract with Pyrotecnico, which has handled the fireworks for the past six Super Bowls. Pyrotecnico also is the fireworks partner for the University of Georgia and Sanford Stadium. Pyrotecnico also handles the fireworks for Stone Mountain Park.
In other words, Milledgeville will celebrate America’s 250th birthday in style.
Last year’s display fizzled out, and people quickly took to social media to express their disappointment. “Pitiful” was an oft-used description. The show lasted somewhere between 7-10 minutes, depending on who was counting. The 2024 municipal fireworks, by contrast, lasted roughly 20 minutes. Many onlookers complained of limited site lines and an overall underwhelming experience. Then, there was the timing, as the show began while the sun was still setting.
The contractor for last year’s display – Freedom Fireworks – ultimately apologized and refunded the city the full amount, which was $13,500.