Fireworks Are a July 4 Tradition

Re “Proposed Ban on Fireworks Sparks Debate,” March 25:

Your recent stories on fireworks in Buena Park present numerous quotes from fireworks opponents, but none from supporters, although plenty were available at the City Council meeting. The arguments against fireworks, including the outrageous claim that they are somehow responsible for a child’s shooting death, are all repeated in these stories. Yet nothing was reported about the good done by the community groups that sell fireworks.

A reader would conclude from your reporting that fireworks were banned at the council’s March 25 meeting and that the ordinance will take effect in 30 days. Reporting that this is a done deal could discourage fireworks supporters from putting up a fight that is still winnable. People need to know that this was only the first reading and that fireworks have not yet been outlawed. The second reading and final vote are scheduled for April 22. The commitment by the community to keep fireworks is high, as nonprofit service groups do so much to benefit our youth and residents in need. Besides, everyone I know enjoys the Fourth of July, and “safe and sane” fireworks are an important and fun tradition that we aren’t willing to have taken from us.

David Boone

Buena Park