Photo Spread: Grandville, MI's Fireworks

Before I begin on the actual fireworks show, I should probably give some context. You see, the City of Grandville has had some budget problems over the past couple of years. They've trimmed services, programs, and positions, anything to keep from raising taxes. They've made it clear that they really do not want to do that. But with the current economy slowing down to a halt, it's getting really difficult to be as extravagant with holiday celebrations, while at the same time trying to be fiscally conservative.

That said, this year's fireworks show in Grandville was really weird. They usually just send up one firework at a time, which is normal for the city, but most of them lacked the oomph factor. (Again, they were probably cheaper fireworks, which is actually probably wiser. But still! Where's the shock and awe in that?) In years past, the show usually then goes to two at a time, then three or four, then it's the grand finale. We had maybe a minute or so of two fireworks at once, then BANG, it was the grand finale. But just as soon as it came, it was done. Seriously. I got one good picture out of it. ONE. Since it was such a unceremonious finale, we were kind of uncertain if that was actually the end. But no other fireworks came up. They still didn't come up. Thus, the show ended like that.

We started to pack camp up and had everything all set and ready to go, when suddenly, the grand finale continued. But only for about five seconds. The sky was suddenly awash in those grand, golden "chandelier" fireworks. I mean, they consumed the sky. But as quickly as they came, they went. Uncertain if the show is continuing, we stand around for a while. Nothing. Nothing. Still nothing. That's when we realized that it was, for real, the end.

So with budget problems and technically difficulties enhancing the "Huh?" factor, the 2006 fireworks show was not the best in recent history. But still very memorable! I would say that it even tops watching the fireworks in the rain last year. Despite the circumstances, I did still manage to get a few good shots out of the event. I hope you enjoy them.