Economy dimming town fireworks shows

Area municipalities cut back on festivities to save money

The down economy is hitting some area municipalities right in their Roman candles.

In New Jersey, Medford has canceled its weekend activities, including a fireworks display that was set for Sunday–unless a white knight comes up with the money to pay for the event.

Cherry Hill spokesman Dan Keeshan says the town has been finding corporate donors to pay for its fireworks for the past five years and is expecting some people to come to the celebration at Cherry Hill West High School who were shut out in Medford.

“This year we expect anywhere from another 200 to 500 people,” he said. “We are also on the same day as the county fireworks that happen at Cooper River Park, so I believe between the two fireworks displays both will see an uptick in participation.”

The fireworks show in Glenside, Montgomery County, is in trouble, although the parade will go on as scheduled on Sunday afternoon.