Fourth of July Fireworks on the Eastern Promenade - 2009
Later this morning Mayor Nick Mavodones will accept a check in the amount of $45,000 from four businesses to fund the annual 4th of July fireworks. The four companies who responded to the city’s appeal for private funds to support this popular community event are: The PPH/MST, Quirk Chevrolet, Wright Express, and the Maine Red Claws.
Last week city manager Joseph Gray presented his budget for the next fiscal year to the city council. His proposed budget that begins on July 1st, excluded funds for the annual event. Gray felt obliged to cancel the event due to the budget problems the city faces.
“Portland’s 4th of July fireworks celebration is a valued tradition dating back more than a century. The celebration takes place along the Eastern Promenade with more than 50,000 people gathering in a variety of public spaces and in Casco Bay to watch the event. It is the largest city event held in Portland,” said a press release issued by the city this morning.
This is good to hear. It would have been a shame not to have them as I know it’s an event many people really enjoy. I know my wife and I make the hike from the West End for them every year.