It doesn’t have to be a fizzle
By Patrick Kelley
Originally published 02:25 p.m., July 1, 2008
Updated 02:25 p.m., July 1, 2008
IT IS a pity that Emporia will not have a professional fireworks display on the Fourth of July.
Some folks are taking it hard. Look at the online comments on The Gazette’s article, which ran last week, and it is evident that a lot of people think that the city dropped the ball by not budgeting to subsidize a display — or any sort of celebration — this year.
Last year, the Fourth was the center point of the city’s celebration of its 150th anniversary. There was a parade, a crafts market, a cakewalk and, of course, a fireworks display. We said at the time that it was a grand affair and people had worked hard to bring it off. We suggested that the community consider making a big Independence Day celebration an annual event.
Then came the Tyson layoffs and a drop in tax revenues and the city commission had to start figuring out how to keep things running on less money. One of the things to go was the subsidy for the fireworks display.
Some of the people commenting on The Gazette Web site have hopes of cobbling together a community celebration Friday without public money or official sanction. We wish them well.
Time is short, of course, but it was not that long ago that the people of Emporia surprised themselves by banding together to build the new playground at Peter Pan Park. The community is full of capable, energetic people who have no official titles or responsibilities — just a desire to make Emporia a better place to live.
So Emporia may have some Fourth of July activities after all. A big fireworks display is out of the question — they cost a lot of money and require careful planning. It has been suggested that people get together in town and set off all their family fireworks together, but that’s a bad idea. Almost all fireworks are banned in the city, and for good reason.
But there is no reason that there can’t be neighborhood parades and picnics, bicycle-decorating contests and such. If any holiday should be a celebration “of the people, by the people, for the people,” it is Independence Day.
If you are planning some sort of gathering for your block or your neighborhood, let The Gazette help get the word out. Call the newsroom at 342-4805 or e-mail the information to newsroom@emporiagazette.com.
For those who absolutely must have a fireworks display, Emporia’s neighboring towns are offering two, for the expenditure of only a few gallons of gasoline.
Lebo’s display, part of a three-day festival, will be Friday night. The folks in Chase County will have their display Saturday night in Swope Park at Cottonwood Falls.
And once the weekend is past, let’s start planning to make sure Emporia has a celebration to be proud of next Fourth of July.
Patrick S. Kelley
Editorial Page Editor
Bjnemp (anonymous) says...
Personally, I find the ban on individual family fireworks to be a far worse issue than the lack of a public display. I am going to miss the day-long "sounds of freedom" this Friday. In this evening's Capital-Journal, Ric Anderson wrote an editorial on the fun of the Fourth and fireworks INSIDE the city limits of Topeka. It made me sad when I thought of how quiet Emporia is going to be July 4th. This is part of what Ric wrote that saddened me:
"To each his or her own. But here's one American who got lessons in budgeting by figuring out how to get a full day's worth of fireworks fun out of his allowance — the key was buying firecrackers in bulk and using them to stage marathon battles between plastic soldiers — and would defend to his last breath the ability for kids to discover the delight of fireworks.
The more fireworks this Friday, the better. That ringing in our ears? It's the sound of freedom."
Maybe in Topeka, Ric, but not in Emporia, Kansas; the city that created Veterans Day but refuses to let it's citizens (families, epecially children) celebrate Independence Day. If city budgets don't allow for a public fireworks display, all the more reason to let the people purchase and discharge their own fireworks. How very, very sad. Our city leaders should be ashamed.
July 1, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justthefacts (anonymous) says...
Does anyone know how long it's been illegal to discharge fireworks inside the city limits? Maybe the paper staff can answer this? I've been led to believe it's been in place for some time.
July 1, 2008 at 8:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
emporian (anonymous) says...
http://www.kansas.com/news/story/4506...
July 1, 2008 at 8:29 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justthefacts (anonymous) says...
http://www.emporiagazette.com/news/20...
July 1, 2008 at 8:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Bjnemp (anonymous) says...
I HAVE to share this story! Early this afternoon two young boys, about 9 or 10 years old, were shooting a few firecrackers a few doors up the street from my house. Within minutes I saw TWO Emporia police cars speeding up the street toward that house. At that same time I observed a man on a very noisy motorcycle speed down 18th street at 50 or 60 miles per hour! This guy was endangering lives and our police were busting little boys for shooting some firecrackers to celebrate the Fourth! Only in Emporia, Kansas.
July 1, 2008 at 9:44 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
acricket (anonymous) says...
And we wonder why people are moving to other towns. What is happening to this town?
July 1, 2008 at 9:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sunshine (anonymous) says...
Mr. Kelley...I could care less about the city not having a public display....I am really irritated that I can't stay home and enjoy the Fourth of July with my family and friends. I realize that this ordinance has been in place for some time...at least for the 6 years that my family has lived here...because since the first year we lived here we have traveled to Topeka to celebrate the holiday (which is getting harder to do with the price of gas). We gather with 10 or more other families at a friends house to celebrate. There are always kids lined up and down the street, all the men are out there right next to the kids, and everyone has a great time. But we always regret that we can't take our turn and host the event at our house. We would love to bring our friends and family to this great town...but everyone agrees..the 4th of July is not the 4th without fireworks. I don't think that any of them and especially my kids would appreciate a parade or bike decorating contests. I don't know any American kid who doesn't look forward (for at least an entire month) to shooting off as many fireworks as they can for an entire day, I sure did when I was a kid.
I don't think I would care for an entire week of fireworks, nor could I afford it....but by gosh I think that I should be able to shoot fireworks off with my kids on the one day that is traditionally set aside for such festivities. To tell me kids that they can watch a parade and decorate their bikes would be like telling them to stay home and have a pumpkin decorating contest instead of the annualy family walk up and down our streets in the town dressed up in our best costumes and collecting as much candy as we can on Halloween. We love this town, but we love our family traditions much more!
So please Mr. Kelley, if you would kindly explain to me why this ban is in place and exactly what the "good reason" is.
July 1, 2008 at 10:58 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
hogan77 (anonymous) says...
This was such a ridiculous waste of time, writing this article. What was it supposed to prove? Emporians are angry, and rightly so. Their so called independence is being stripped away from them, little by little. First, all of the jobs disappear. Then, all of the families disappear. Now, community activities disappear. I think that Emporia legislature needs to re-evaluate what they are doing to the community. All of these things may be petty, and they may think that the community will get over it. Well, once you dump all of it together in one year, no... people aren't going to get over it.
Why is it that if the people of Emporia want to see a fireworks display, they need to drive 20 plus miles just to do so? Most people can't afford the gas to get to Cottonwood Falls at this point. And why is it, that if they want to celebrate their independence and shoot off a mini fountain in their driveway or a box of sparklers for the kids, they risk getting fined? The cost of a few small items from the local fireworks stand is more cost worthy than the half a tank of gas it would be to get out of town to watch a display. One day of celebration is exactly what the city of Emporia needs. Considering all the hardship they have been through this year, I believe it is only fair. Wake up Emporia legislature! Look at what you are doing to your community! Are you that blind to think it will all get better? Not if you continue to dampen their spirits, it won't. I say, release the fireworks ban this year. Let the city of Emporia celebrate their independence.
July 2, 2008 at 12:55 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Penny (anonymous) says...
It will not be quiet on Friday, it never has been, ban or no ban.
July 2, 2008 at 8:38 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
rdgrey (anonymous) says...
This is sad for this town to just turn its back on its residents like this. Not only that but on my scanner I hear the flood of calls for someone lighting fire crackers all night. They are probably running extra patrok officers for this MAJOR offence which is costing the city how much? What are we accomplishing here? I have lived in several other LARGER communities where they do allow fireworks and there is no more safety hazard then here. There is not a line of people at the burn clinic, Houses are still standing the next morning, the smell of bbq fills the air, kids laughing and families gathering in blocks, and the sky is lit up on the night of the 4th in celebration of our independance. I feel like the we are being beaten down by a over powering goverment when THAT is the very thing we should be celebrating is an independance from an over powering gov..Whats next?
July 2, 2008 at 9:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
iamtheinfantry (anonymous) says...
One night, in the fall of 2005, I was guarding my sector of fire on a rooftop in the middle of Mosul, Iraq. All of a sudden the entire city turned into World War III. Automatic weapons fire erupted everywhere, sending streams of tracers into the night sky. We started to panic, it was normal for sections of the city to go up sporatically, but the ENTIRE city??? The sky was bright with the red-orange glow of tracers and it sounded like everyone with an AK was letting lose at full auto. We started to panic. Were we about to be overrun?!!!?!! Then a voice came over the radio that all of Iraq had just beat Syria in a soccer game, and the entire country was celebrating by firing their weapons into the sky.
No casualties were reported.
So you mean to tell me Iraq can celebrate their victory in a soccer game with automatic weapons fire, yet we can't shoot our own fireworks to celebrate our independence in Emporia, KS??
I think your bike-decorating contest is a crock, Mr. Kelley.
Respectfully,
A Proud INFANTRY Veteran
July 2, 2008 at 9:42 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ksgirl (anonymous) says...
It would be nice if they could compromise with us. Something like, you can have fireworks on the fourth of July but then after ten at night you will start getting ticketed for shooting them off. That way things quiet down and people that have to work the next day can get some sleep. Everyone is happy because at least we'd have the freedom to shoot them off without worrying about getting a ticket and those that need sleep would know that around ten things should be quieted down. Instead I think a lot of people are going to risk getting a ticket anyway and will have to keep looking over their shoulders to make sure the cops are not around the corner.
But whats it matter to me. I've made plans to get out of this town where I can celebrate because apparently thats what the city would like us to do.
July 2, 2008 at 9:55 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Renegade (anonymous) says...
I agree with all of you, and thank you, imtheinfantry...Your post, along with all the others, motivated me to go to City Hall this morning.
My husband and I met with Mr. Plummer, our City Attorney, and Mr. Zimmerman, City Manager.
It's fair to say that there are a lot of disappointed people in Emporia, that feel cheated by the silence in our City, for the 4th of July.
Apparently, the City only budgets a small portion for the Fireworks...and, service organizations have sponsored the rest. This year...no one wanted to do it...Money, may have been the issue....but, no one knows for sure.
We asked about the "safe and sane" individual Fireworks in the City. We were told that it's City Ordinance, to ban fireworks, and that has been in effect for years...However, there has been some discussion about lightening up on the ban, to allow for safe fireworks in neighborhoods in the City....Our Commissioners have not visited this issue for the past few years.
We were told that if we wanted to go through the process of addressing the Commissioners about lifting the bad, "next year"... we can...and we can petition as well.
Mr. Zimmerman and Mr. Plummer, offered several suggestions, and agreed they would guide us through the process. Of course, we got no assurances that we would be successful...and, we should be prepared for opposition.
So...once again...I am offering my services....IF, you are not happy with the lack of Celebration in Emporia this year, and you would like to join my husband, and myself, in trying to get our 4th of July back next year....Please e-mail me at im.renegade@yahoo.com. I will form some kind of committee with all that are interested....and, start the process early enough, that we will have a decision on what we can do for next year.
I am offering to be a Community Advocate for "lifting the ban" on the fireworks next year..and, allowing safe and sane fireworks to be sold in Emporia...for celebration of our Independence Day...and for sales tax revenue.
I will reply to your e-mail, and at that time give you my name, and other contact information.
im.renegade@yahoo.com
July 2, 2008 at 12:24 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
friend (anonymous) says...
Remember how this wonderful country got started-remember the tea party. Taxation without representation ( and Emporia is one of the highly taxed cities not only in Kansas but the nation- so we definitely have the taxes!! Representation? Decisions are made without consulting the residents of this town. What can we do? Nothing-that is sad. We need new politicians in town with bigger ideas and to care about what happens to Emporia, today and in the future. Because the future looks pretty bleak. All anyone can say don't like it "go", what an attitude. Anyone got any ideas how to change things??
July 2, 2008 at 1:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Renegade (anonymous) says...
friend....
We can try to change it.....and, I am not going to "GO away..yet!"....If you would like to sign a petition, or be involved in some way...let me know. There's no reason the people of Emporia should have to leave town to celebrate Independence Day. We celebrate Cinco de Mayo, and St. Patricks Day????..and, not our Independence Day?......
July 2, 2008 at 1:19 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justthefacts (anonymous) says...
As I recall, a previous article stated the police were not going to put on additional officers. They would handle the ton of fireworks complaints they get from Emporia residents on a call load basis. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I thing that was the gist of the other article.
July 2, 2008 at 2:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
nascar (anonymous) says...
How many times do we have DRILLED into our heads, "shop Emporia first", be proud of your community, etc, etc. Not only are we not able to celebrate the Fourth with a city display if you try to celebrate privately with your family, you will be properly "punished". I am packing up my family and going out of town - its just disgusting.
July 2, 2008 at 3:58 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
eiggohp (anonymous) says...
There is not a city in Kansas that is more of a financial disaster than Junction City and I have been told that they are having a 5 day band, etc. celebration and fireworks on Friday and Saturday nights....although a lot of this money is from donations...BUT they have also been informed that since the budget is so tight, they will not have Christmas lights this year. Emporia could be worse...maybe we don't have it so bad after all.
July 2, 2008 at 6 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Bjnemp (anonymous) says...
Emporia, Kansas; where patriotism is a punishable offense. I can't believe our fire chief or city commissioners have the nerve to show their faces in public. God bless our great nation and all the brave men and women who have sacrificed to keep us free. I'm sorry that city ordinance prevents us from celebrating our nation's independence and your unselfish service this Friday.
July 2, 2008 at 6:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
hottopics (anonymous) says...
I agree that this article was a waste of space. And as for making changes on the Cities level.....good luck. They cant even write a new dog law correctly or even badly attempt to enforce it.
No fireworks to watch...none to shoot off, gas is to expensive to go anywhere......just what are we suppose to do?
Not to mention the loads of trash and debris that will be left on the county roads.
BUT we have 40K in the arches that lead to a fairgrounds that cant afford to shoot off fireworks???????
A wonderful court house, clock tower, pretty lights for a downtown that is bare. We have a sad building we call a mall, an over price swimming pool......where does it end???
But maybe......we should all shoot them off as usual and hand a officer a sparkler if they show up??
July 2, 2008 at 10:42 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
bamm_momma (anonymous) says...
it is my belief that presents under a pine tree is not the meaning of Christmas it is to celebrate something much more than high priced toys. Independence Day is much more than fireworks and a parade people. It is raising the American flag that day and being thankful that we have the choice to raise that flag. And the freedom to speak our minds in the press non the less. It is saluting our past and present troops. It is the choice to do something else that day and the choice to find some other way to show our independence. Get creative, don't be stupid though. Be smart. By shooting off fireworks in within city limits, what does that teach our children and some wonder why we have children out at all wee hours of the night doing stupid things.
Don't get me wrong I am disappointed that Emporia won't have a fireworks display but I'm sure I will get over it by the 5th.
Just be happy with what you do have that day. Your indepence. If you dont like what you have, do something to change it, you have that choice.
July 2, 2008 at 11:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
rdgrey (anonymous) says...
Way to go Renegade, My wife and myself will e-mail you as soon as I get back from California. We talked about doing something like this but have no experience at it. Lets make things happen. Bamm I am trying to teach my kids the traditional way to celebrate the 4th the way it has been for 232 years and I am not going to lay down and roll over to let that right be taken away from me. I have wonderful memories as a kid of doing fireworks on the 4th with a huge gathering of family and friends. Not sitting inside watching some other city have a parade on T.V.. Next year I guess you will need ear plugs.
July 3, 2008 at 2:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
siamesefred (anonymous) says...
hottopics,
Please remember that not all the projects you believe are a waste of money came from the same pile of funds.
I thought the arches at the fairgrounds were paid for by the fair board not the city. The fair board isn't the one that had fireworks in its budget.
Also, when we complain about higher taxes, let's be honest. Do we want $10K spent on fireworks or on street improvements or fire station maintenance?
July 3, 2008 at 7:25 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Bjnemp (anonymous) says...
Siamesefred: I vote to spend the ten grand on street improvements or fire station maintenance AND give Emporians the FREEDOM to shoot fireworks within the city limits, in their own yards, with their children and friends and be able to celebrate our nation's independence as it is done in most other cities and has been done for over two centuries.
I feel positive that the revenue generated by sales from people staying in town and buying huge quantities of fireworks, supplies for family gatherings and cookouts, and the considerable amount of money being retained within our own community instead of being poured into neighboring towns, would not only pay for that $10,000 expenditure but would provide revenues for others as well.
Bottom line: our short-sighted city officials are not saving money by banning fireworks in city limits. They are missing an opportunity to generate a lot of badly-needed dollars for empty city coffers.
Wake up, Emporia.
July 3, 2008 at 11:17 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Renegade (anonymous) says...
rdgrey....
I look forward to hearing from you. Thanks for your post.
siamesefred.. Yes, it would be burning up $10,000, and making a lot of noise...But, why not change the Fireworks Ordinance and allow the people to purchase their own 'safe and sane' fireworks and have fun?
Think about the calls the Police are going to have tomorrow night (and maybe tonight)...because people are lighting fireworks, and trying to get away with it.
They are going to be fined?....Why not change the ordinance, making safe and sane fireworks legal...and, instead of making money on fines...we could make it in sales tax revenue from the fireworks stands?
The police can still issue fines for the "illegal- Insane fireworks" that some people like to shoot off. But, truth be told....ordinance, or no ordinance....those that want to shoot off their guns, and the big illegal fireworks, are going to do it anyway.
bammm momma....I don't like what is happening in Emporia..and I am trying to do something about it. I went to the City Attorney's office, and the City Managers office, yesterday, and today, I had a short conversation with the City Finance Director.....I am asking questions...and getting answers...I have offered to do what I can to get the ordinance changed for next year, and I'm asking for volunteers to help.
We have to start now..because, Labor Day, Halloween,"Veterans Day" Thanksgiving and Christmas are coming up...and, we're probably going to have to fight to continue to celebrate those holidays, as well.
im.renegade@yahoo.com if you would like to see the fireworks ordinance changed.
July 3, 2008 at 11:41 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Renegade (anonymous) says...
Hi BJnemp...Thanks for your support too...I agree about the $10,000.00...and maybe next year if we want a big fireworks display in the City...We could get some Businesses to participate?...
I have always been a person that shops Emporia first...and this year, I went to Topeka....to their Walgreens, to get some holiday lights.I bought some from Walgreens in Emporia last year, but this year the Manager of our LOCAL Walgreens chose not to have a lot of 4th of July decorations and didn't order them. Although Walgreens advertised them.
My point is....I had to drive to Topeka to buy them, and did more shopping in Topeka while I was there.
HELLOOOOO!!! Commissioners, and Chamber of Commerce...and, Emporia Business Owners...WHAT ARE YOU THINKING? ....
I guess the popular attitude in Emporia, now, is...if we don't have it, and you want it....go someplace else to find it....Who's stopping you?...Who cares?
July 3, 2008 at 11:57 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Bjnemp (anonymous) says...
Just saw this article in the Topeka paper. Chapman was devastated by a tornado last month and lies in rubble, but city leaders feel The Fourth of July is too important to miss.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fireworks shows will go on in Chapman
The Associated Press
Published Thursday, July 3, 2008 at 11:38 a.m. CDT
CHAPMAN — Despite piles of rubble and plenty to do in the cleanup of wreckage left by a huge tornado, Chapman is dotted with fireworks stands.
“I figured we needed a little celebration after what we’ve been through,” said Mayor Bob Gaetz.
He convinced the city council that no harm would come from residents setting off fireworks a safe distance away from the damaged areas of town.
The EF3 tornado on the night of June 11 killed a 21-year-old woman and damaged or destroyed 60 percent of the town’s buildings.
Among Chapman residents selling fireworks are the police chief, the superintendent of schools and a family doctor.
Emporia should be ashamed.
July 3, 2008 at 12:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
I was at Wal-Mart about an hour ago. As I shopped here and there in the grocery department, I could see folks buying lots of paper plates and napkins. Beer, Brats, and packages of hamburger were popular. I picked up some Nathan's hot dogs, and the man stocking the shelf said hot dogs, particularly Ball Park, were flying off the shelf today. Mayonnaise was being re-stocked too. The lines at the checkouts were pretty long. Looks like a lot of folks will be having picnics.
July 3, 2008 at 1 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
tosie (anonymous) says...
Check this out.....Chapman was almost swept away by a tornado yet they are still going to celebrate the 4th and allow people to have fireworks in their town. Emporia should be ashamed.
Fireworks shows will go on in Chapman
The Associated Press
Published Thursday, July 3, 2008 at 11:38 a.m. CDT
CHAPMAN — Despite piles of rubble and plenty to do in the cleanup of wreckage left by a huge tornado, Chapman is dotted with fireworks stands.
“I figured we needed a little celebration after what we’ve been through,” said Mayor Bob Gaetz.
He convinced the city council that no harm would come from residents setting off fireworks a safe distance away from the damaged areas of town.
The EF3 tornado on the night of June 11 killed a 21-year-old woman and damaged or destroyed 60 percent of the town’s buildings.
Among Chapman residents selling fireworks are the police chief, the superintendent of schools and a family doctor.
July 3, 2008 at 1:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Renegade (anonymous) says...
What's your point Create? There's nothing else to do in Emporia?
July 3, 2008 at 1:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Penny (anonymous) says...
How long has this fireworks ordinance been in place? Anyone know?
July 3, 2008 at 1:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Renegade (anonymous) says...
Penny...I'm not exactly sure how long it's been in place, but I think, it was last reveiwed about 4-5 years ago. I'm going by memory now, from a conversation yesterday.
July 3, 2008 at 2:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
swoozie (anonymous) says...
What I see as the biggest problem is not that the city decided it didn't have the money to put on the display but that they didn't see fit to tell anyone that the display wasn't happening until to late for anyone else to go through the permit process. If they had announced in February or March, when the decision was made, private groups could have worked to make it happen.
July 3, 2008 at 3:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
Renegade, my point was that a lot of people are having picnics to celebrate the 4th. I'm sure that means getting together with family and friends; that's always something good to do.
July 3, 2008 at 4:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
hogan77 (anonymous) says...
Sounds to me like all Emporia has to offer LEGALLY for Independence Day activities is to wake up, go outside, salute a flag and give a moment of silence to all service people who gave their lives to defend our FREEDOM, eat a burger, and call it a night. No brilliant lights in the sky as reminders of what we have to live for. No excitement for our children, who have yet to learn that independence means you may shoot off fireworks, that you have the right to celebrate your freedom.
Such a simple thing... a couple of dollars blow up in the driveway, a nice, fun thing to do that leads to wonderful childhood memories. I can still remember the days of setting black worms on fire in my driveway, lighting smoke bombs and watching the colors of the smoke change. I remember my uncles lighting off our mini grand displays of fireworks on our street, to show us little kids a little bit of beauty in the night sky. Myself and siblings, and cousins alike, all laying on Grandma's blanket in the front yard, watching the sky light up with reds, greens, whites and blues. The smell and crackle of a sparkler, and our mothers helping us write our names in the darkness. We were stars on those nights.. we made ourselves famous with our sparkling names in the hot July air. And knowing how incredibly special we were, that we had the opportunity to decorate the night sky without retribution, that we were free. Memories I will never forget. This is a sad day, that the children of Emporia will not have the chance to do these things... unless they want to add on a visit from the Emporia Police Department on the list of excitement from that day.
Shame on Emporia city officials. SHAME ON YOU!
July 3, 2008 at 5:40 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
friend (anonymous) says...
What street repairs? Kmart and Target won't come to Emporia? Why? They have crunched the numbers because it is all about the bottom line and they know that it would not be a success. We get grief for shopping at Walmart and not other places. Well, when money matters, Walmart can buy in bulk and its cheapter!! To attract other business to our town we have to something here for them to come.
July 3, 2008 at 5:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Bjnemp (anonymous) says...
Hogan77: Wow! You said in two paragraphs what I, and many others, have been trying to say for several days! You banged the gong on that one. I am just totally bummed out over the idiotic, unpatriotic, backwoods hillbilly decision to ban fireworks in our city on Independence Day. It's as if our city officials feel this holiday means nothing and that they could care less what the majority of the population desires. It saddens me deeply that his important, and once rowdy and exciting, holiday has become in this town. Notice I said "town", and not city. The designation of city would imply organization and growth. Due to decisions like the fireworks ban, the word "town" fits Emporia much better.
July 3, 2008 at 6:42 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
srochat (Scott Rochat) says...
An interesting note to add: When I used to work in Garden City, it was legal to set off fireworks inside the city but NOT in the county. The rationale was that fireworks in the city could be easily monitored and limited to safe areas (such as driveways and parking lots) while fireworks in the county were harder to keep an eye on and had a good chance of causing major grass fires.
Scott Rochat
Longmont, CO
July 3, 2008 at 8 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MerkyWater (anonymous) says...
I think if we go ahead and elect Obama that this fireworks thing will be straightened out by next July 4th. He will do everything in his power to see that all Americans have the right to shoot fireworks. Vote for Obama in November!
July 3, 2008 at 8:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
hogan77 (anonymous) says...
Bjnemp: I still have those family members plus many many friends left in Emporia. They are all incredibly upset over the whole situation, and rightfully so. So I decided to speak on their behalf on this matter... and for everyone else.
I also keep my memories of my youth close to me. But, sadly, it is just that. They are only memories, not anything I could ever continue as tradition in Emporia. I had to leave Emporia years ago. I knew that the way it was 7 years ago was not the same little community I grew up in. The activities for the younger community members was starting to dwindle away. The jobs were slowly becoming scarce. I knew, that if I wanted my child to have memories and a wonderful childhood as I did, I would have to leave to a different place.
There are still things I miss about Emporia. I miss the trails in Peter Pan park, walking them on a warm spring day, exploring the nature around us, and ending with a picnic lunch and my child playing on the playground. I miss the county fair that is held, complete with rides and cotton candy to sweeten up the young ones, exhibits of animals for my daughter to ooh and ahh over, and the local businesses that collected in the huts to entice you to visit their stores. I miss the lovely downtown, with all it's business remodels and street beautification, and being able to walk around and visit the small mom and pop shops that make Emporia downtown what it is. I miss the Girl Scout community there, they have always been on top of worth while youth activities. I also miss being able to go to a softball or T-ball game and watch even the youngest of players try their hardest to hit the ball out of the park. I miss the large Farmer's Market, and being able to take my daughter and her wagon to pick out the freshest of fruits and veggies.
Emporia still has these things. But when you add in the lack of employment, the disappearing celebrations and traditions, the high cost of living; there is simply no way that a young family can manage to stay in the community. Emporia city officials have their heads hidden in their backside, and I don't foresee that changing any time soon. It completely baffles me how they could have pulled it all off in the past, having the fireworks show, and how other communities can continue to do so, but this year they just can't manage. Had they said something earlier in the year, perhaps private citizens would have had the time to make some changes, raise some funds, and plan a spectacular show for the town to see. They may have also had the time to fight the fireworks ban, try to have it lifted. Perhaps next election, Emporia can work those people out of office. Vote for yourselves, you can do a much better job... I'm sure of it!
July 3, 2008 at 8:42 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
hogan77 (anonymous) says...
MerkyWater- I am pretty sure that your precious Obama has bigger fish to fry than to make sure us little blue collars have the chance to shoot off fireworks. At this point, he is too occupied with trying to convince everyone in the US that he ISN'T changing his position on the war in Iraq. Not a very smart thing to do Mr. Obama... last thing you want to do is upset the people who are going to vote for you in the fall! We are all pretty mad about what Bush is doing to us now... so don't get on our bad sides.
I still say Sebelius should have run for office... but that is a different thread, a different time, and only my opinion.
July 3, 2008 at 8:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MerkyWater (anonymous) says...
I do believe Obama can fry our small fish too. I am sure he is for the little blue collar folks like us who just want to shoot off a few fireworks. If he needs to adjust his stand on the Iraq war then lets all be for him and his new stance. Remember it is Bush who is against us. Obama is for us. Vote for Obama in November.
July 3, 2008 at 9:33 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
USNretired (anonymous) says...
Obama grew up overseas, raised in Africa and Indonesia. He probably doesn't have a clue about what motivates this discussion. I spent over 300 on fireworks, which I will set off west of Green Acres tomorrow night AFTER I drive around the mess our public servants have made out of the West End. I would put money into a fireworks kitty if I thought we could get enough together to cover materials and insurance for next year, but I may move away by then. Six years I have lived here and this is the worst managed mess I can remember, with Independence Day getting less action than cinco de mayo.
July 3, 2008 at 9:50 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Bjnemp (anonymous) says...
USNretired: I wouldn't blame you for moving. City officials have shown signs of idiocy in the past, but literally removing Independence Day from the calendar is the absolute worst. Have fun with your fireworks tomorrow night. I wish you could stay home and shoot them off so all of us could enjoy them.
MerkyWater: Not only is your water murky (correct spelling), but so is your mind. Obama isn't for us. Obama is for Obama and his radical left-wing liberal socialist agenda. If he is elected we will all drown in the murky water of drastically increased taxes to be used for massive handouts to the laziest and non-productive members of society and to fund socialized medicine. Obama believes in the Fourth of July about as much as I believe in the nonsense you spout.
July 3, 2008 at 10:20 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
rustbuster (anonymous) says...
I agree that not being able to shoot off fireworks in the city is a shame. Let's not forget there is always two sides to the coin. I see the same people making repeat posts about this topic. Yet, there are how many thousands of people in Emporia. Just because a handfull of people think the ordnance should be lifted, it doesn't mean that the rest of the city feels the same way. I remember at one time everyone wanted beer sales on sunday in Emporia. I couldn't find one person that was against it. Yet, when it went to vote. The citizens of Emporia voted against it. Maybe that is what needs to be done with the "No fireworks in the city limits." Let the citizens vote on it. A person can stand there and agree with everything you say just for the sake of not getting into an argument. But when they are behind closed doors their opinions change. That is what makes us human.
July 5, 2008 at 4:33 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MrCmonkeeDo (anonymous) says...
The monkeeDo's celebrated the 4th just as they always Do; in the backyard with most of the items "create" mentioned and a whole lot more. There were, sad to say, some lawless youngsters runnin' round with sparklers and poppers and snakes (oh my!)
Of course, the way some of us adults were enjoying ourselves, drinkin' beers and whatnot right in front of 'em it's no wonder the little heathens behaved like that. And our neighbors were certainly no help. There was all manner of fireworks goin' off all day an' clear into the late night; still MrC has to admit the monkeeDo's rather enjoyed it an' took full advantage.
We suckled the neighbors sounds and smoke bombed smells an' wafted a few of our own back at em. There were smiles all day an' sometimes extra wide grins an' nary a coarse word was spoken an' it was cool out an' starlit an' someone spotted the last lighting bug on earth and the cops never came or requisite sparkler burns either and some of the food sat out too long and the Jambalaya stayed out all night.
All in all it was like any other Independence Day for us...well, except for the Grand Finale. There was no Grand Finale. There was only the clean up and reluctance to end a beautiful evening and it just doesn't get much better than that. Thanks America.
July 5, 2008 at 3 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
slipandslide (anonymous) says...
mrC if i knew where you lived i would have invited myself over, it sounds like a blast
July 5, 2008 at 3:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dalelinn (Dale Linn) says...
The city is certainly hurting for money. As a citizen & veteran, I certainly would have approved of a public fireworks display, but can understand the saving of money. One question I would like to have answered, "Did the city expend any capital for "Cinco de Mayo"?
July 5, 2008 at 4:15 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
smith_ron (anonymous) says...
OK, so we did not get to shoot off any fireworks, and we did not get to have a public display. How about rather than spending the next 11 months moaning and groaning about it, we start working toward solutions to these problems.
How about all the local civic organizations band together to raise funds for a public display.
Or, why not ask the chamber or main street programs to organize a Fourth of July committee that would oversee the festivities.
Or why not just ask for community volunteers to raise money to hold a display.
This town is rich with traditions that celebrate our veterans and the wars they fought to guarantee our freedom. We ought to figure out a way that we can keep our Indepence Day traditions alive, too.
And since the city has passed a law that prohibits shooting off fireworks, why not We the People of Emporia, who elected the commissioners to work for us, tell them that we ARE NOT happy with this law and want it changed.
Folks: Words are great but action is even better.
July 6, 2008 at 3:41 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
glarson (anonymous) says...
We'll be closing this out now and joining the previously created news forum about Fourth of July:
http://www.emporiagazette.com/forums/...
July 7, 2008 at 8:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )