Fireworks Industry in Biggest Downturn Since Vietnam...Oh Yeah, and Happy 4th of July

To mark the commemoration of our day of independence, here is an article about how the fireworks industry is in their biggest slump since the Vietnam War.  Back then, it was due to the uncertainty of many as to what our country was and what it stood for, as Vietnam was very polarizing.  Now, their woes are more linked to the ongoing economic crisis, as well as the effects of climate change.

I was never much of a fireworks guy; if I ever were in the mood to see any, I can turn on Channel 11 and watch the Macy's Fireworks show; barring that, I can go on Youtube or fire up a screen saver app or something.  But local government's budgets are on a shoestring these days, and for many, fireworks shows are amongst the first things to go; I'm sure there's plenty of money for pork-like projects, though.

What must make it especially tough for those in that industry, is that fireworks sales are mostly limited to professional groups for these kinds of shows, either public or private (and 70 percent of those shows, according to the article, are private corporate affairs).  In many states, including New York, the public is expressly barred from buying fireworks, although some people get around it.

Speaking of which, it is 8:33 PM and I am starting to show them outside my door.  Happy 4th, all.