I had everything sorted in my mind to write yesterday and get a shot of the downtown fireworks. My el cheapo video cam/camera is well showing it’s quality. It’s great on camcorder, not so great on action packed fireworks.
So courtesy of Flicker and thankfully the Manitowoc area photographer, I have some awesome shots for you.
Fireworks, what’s all the rage with people having them for personal use. I’m really not into it. I never have been. I mean don’t get me wrong, I love to watch the big shows, but lighting them off in front of my house… not so much. I think along with my general dis-interest is an incident that happened up at the lake. When my daughter was about two, a crazed family lighting fireworks in a bonfire like way had a bottle rocket go sideways. Right at our boat. The only thing stopping a tragic event was the beer can in the cupholder – otherwise it might have gotten her right in the eye. Let’s just say it wasn’t pretty on our return back from the fireworks display. A drunk man saying -it’s no big deal, no one got hurt. Missed the point completely.
So I looked it up…how did fireworks come to be part of the Fourth of July. It’s been a long tradition. I really enjoy those that are put on by the City. We pay for it don’t we and with Manitowoc claiming to have spent $18,000 – I think it was worth it. And, it’s on the lake, lessening the risk of any accident.
After the display, in our attempt to leave the jam-packed city, we were maneuvering in-between the quieter streets. They had their personal fireworks right in the middle of the road. I can’t really imagine that this is a safe distance for homes and people. The homes in the city are close together. Not to mention the trash being displayed all over the place. I’ve found remains of fireworks in my yard. My mind keeps thinking safety, safety, safety.
Leaving safety to each person that buys fireworks isn’t something I can even think about. I’m confused as how people can purchase fireworks that are illegal. The fireworks law is confusing. Vendors can sell them, but as individuals you must have a permit. Is the permit just a money making scheme for the city or is it to protect others? Not to mention the cost of fireworks. One pop (both purchase and sound) costs $10. Geez! A multi-million dollar industry. I’ll save my money for shoes!
I think the permit should be something that deems a person to have passed a pyro test. Are they safe-worthy? Are they considered a pyro-maniac? A maniac? Do they have fire extinguishers on site? I know it sounds a bit pessimistic, so I looked up reports of firework incidents from yesterday. I’m sure there are plenty more. Reports of danger in Ohio/NY and Iowa.
So if you know the law on the fireworks permit thing, let me know. Also, what’s your take on personal use on illegal fireworks. Oh wait, you aren’t using illegal fireworks, you have a permit… right?
Filed under: Downtown, My View, Uncategorized
I’d have to agree with you on the private fireworks thing. What a waste! Manitowoc has a great show, but it is invisible unless you go down near the lake, and the traffic can be atrocious (especially maritime drive by the marina). I shot those pics by the coal piles across from the Maritime Museum. I parked on franklin, a few blocks away right by a traffic light. When it was time to leave, smooth sailing (unlike the unlucky people who clogged up quay street by the library etc.)
Nate,
Welcome!! Yes you are a seasoned event goer, I can tell. But compared to Chicago traffic, I really don’t mind the clogged. We always get really good parking at the Best Western. However, my hubby went North on Maritime, but did a u-turn after about 5 minutes. Now I know, go to Franklin.
Thanks for stopping by, and thanks for those fantastic photos!