THE BRIGHT SIDE

There seem to be fewer fireworks stands within close driving distance this 4th of July season.
The demand for home fireworks has increased significantly since the beginning of the pandemic when so many professional shows were canceled. Many stores are worried about maintaining inventory due to shipping issues with Asian suppliers. Fireworks from China are stuck in ports because food and other necessities are a higher priority for transportation. Shipping has supposedly quadrupled since 2019. Places with plenty of stock can expect to see high demand, but still, some items are difficult to find.

Those that do have stock will be charging more than in previous years due to a supposed 35% increase in the cost of fireworks. The fireworks industry indicates regularly that it is competing with raising gas prices and inflation along with a shortage of employees. These additional costs are stretching the family’s budgets for attending low-cost and nearby fun activities like fireworks shows.

Place of the Week

The Ridge Hotel is located 5 miles west of Lake Geneva on Highway 50. They have a wonderful brunch every Saturday and Sunday.