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It may be January, but I’ve got fireworks on my mind.

Specifically, I’m talking about Rhinelander’s annual 4th of July fireworks display. Every year, thousands pack Hodag Park to catch the display, an event that has become quite a grand tradition locally.

Facing an ever-tightening budget, especially this year, our City Council has decided that the $8,000 yearly cost for the display is something the city can no longer afford by itself. The fact is, municipalities across this state are being forced to tighten their belts, and Rhinelander is no different. We have decided to put out a call for donations to continue the display. When it is all said and done, I’m confident we’ll have enough to pull it off.

Knowing we’d be facing the same financial restraints this year, we have put out a call to all of our surrounding towns, asking for anything they could spare to help support the fireworks. Many in the crowd that takes in the display each year come from our outlying townships, and our thought was that through their financial support, these towns would have the opportunity to come together to help support a great, entertaining evening.

Well the towns of Pine Lake and Pelican have come through, making nice donations to the city’s 2012 fireworks display. These contributions are greatly appreciated.

We aren’t done, though. Contributions such as the ones we received from Pine Lake and Pelican ensure that the show will go on. We are looking for donations and support from anyone and everyone who is interested in making Rhinelander the place to be this July 4.

I am putting out a challenge to all the townships surrounding Rhinelander. If each town gives a donation, we’ll be set. If they all agree to get on board, we can make the celebration even more grand.

While we are still several months away from Independence Day, I’m asking everyone to start thinking about fireworks. Every little bit will help.

Mayor Johns can be reached at Rhinelander City Hall by calling (715) 365-8600.