Fireworks out this year to save money

Tag : Cotton Throws

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) _ Fireworks are out andmashed-potatoes-on-a-stick are in for Ohio's biggest summer partythis year.



Officials at the Ohio State Fair are trying to cut costs whileoffering bargains to try to boost sagging attendance.



The expensive nightly fireworks show has been shelved and fewer TVads have been bought. Free admissions will be available to earlybirds arriving before 10 a.m. on opening day Wednesday and willcontinue through the 12-day event.



Discounts on the $20 wristband for ride admissions are available atlocal grocery stores. And the mashed-potatoes-on-a-stick join suchtraditional fare as deep-fried Twinkies, cotton candy andmini-donuts.



Fair officials are aware that visitors' budgets are tight, but witha little planning and attention to the occasional booth with goodsfor sale, the fair can be a bargain, spokeswoman Christina Leedssaid.



"Plan ahead and take advantage of the specia » Full Story