Milwaukee 4th of July Fireworks, Parades Cancelled

From the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:

The ongoing threat of COVID-19 has canceled another big event this summer. Both Milwaukee's city and county Fourth of July celebrations are not going to happen in 2020.

The city gave a statement saying there would be no Fourth of July parades or picnic. The county has canceled the July 3 Lakefront fireworks show.

From the Humboldt Park 4th of July Association:

It is with heavy hearts and tears in our eyes that we relay the news that our Independence Day celebration is cancelled for 2020.

The City of Milwaukee 4th of July Commission, Mayor Barrett and the Health Department have made the difficult decision to cancel due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Humboldt Park has been celebrating the 4th for 110 years through wars, peace, depression and prosperity. We ask that you respect the City’s decision and find a way to celebrate safely at home and we promise to be back in 2021 to celebrate the planet’s renewed health.

Nothing has stopped the 4th of July celebration in Humboldt Park for 110 years.

NOTHING, until this virus.

Do summer outdoor activities like these really need to be cancelled?

Of course, it would be wise for the elderly and other at-risk populations to stay away from crowds even in outdoor settings, but we know the virus does not pose a serious health risk to the vast majority of residents.

According to the models, it's projected there will be ZERO cases of COVID-19 in Wisconsin by May 14. That projection was updated on April 28.

I feel bad for Milwaukee residents.

Not all communities in Southeastern Wisconsin have cancelled their celebrations.

For example, Racine's celebration, including the parade and fireworks, is still scheduled for Saturday, July 4th.

Grafton, Sheboygan, and others still plan to celebrate.