Safe and Sane Fireworks........Yes or No?

The 4th of July was just 3 days ago but I'm still thinking about the millions of dollars spent on legal and illegal fireworks.

I totally understand that these legal fireworks stands are an opportunity for schools, churches and other needy programs to make some much deserved money.  And it never ceases to amaze me that at least 4 different fireworks booths will have their inventory stolen every year....every single year. And have you priced fireworks lately?

When I was a kid, the local Red Devil fireworks stand had a pack called "The 49er" because it cost $49.99.  It was the perfect sized package deal with enough sparklers, snakes, Smokey Joe and fountains to keep me entertained for hours.

When my kids were growing up, The 49er was still available, but it was now roughly the size of a shoe box.  Your $50 was gone in a matter of minutes.  This year, I saw what $100 gets you at a fireworks stand; it aint much.

The average fountain is $8 and head upwards, well north of $20.  The sparklers we grew up with are long gone as are the ground bloom flowers.  Piccolo Pete is still around, but he's as feeble as an infant.  It seems these "Safe and Sane" fireworks are...well... BORING and it's just too risky to set off the illegal variety.  No matter the name, all the legal fireworks are pretty much the same.  Colored sparks shoot up, there's crackling and some whistling.  Bam.....there goes $8.

Now don't get me wrong, I like the idea of fireworks as a way of celebrating.  But if you watch the news on the morning of the 5th of July, you'll see no fewer than half a dozen houses burned to the ground due to legal/illegal fireworks along with 3 or 4 fields.

The last couple of years, I find that I much prefer an organized fireworks display.  There are pyrotechnical experts, fire and medical personnel and police at all of these events.  This type of event just feels safer for my family to attend.  And because the show is being overseen by a team of experts, it's safe for adults to have a glass of wine or a beer while you enjoy the show.

Corvette Ronnie
7/7/17

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