Some Cities Considering Fireworks Amnesty Days
By: Liz Hogan
Updated: July 3, 2012
Kathy Manson is doing her best to sell fireworks in Springdale.
"So far we ain't sold nothing, I'm hoping we get some more sales, really I do," she said.
Between the unbearable heat and fireworks bans, local stands are suffering.
"This is how we make our money and you know if we don't sell, it's going to be a loss for us," said saleswoman Freda Partain.
There is some good news. Springdale, Fayetteville and Benton County are all considering a later date to let folks light it up.
"It will help people adhere to the ban a little better if they know they'll get another shot later and it also helps those folks out there trying to make a little extra money selling fireworks," said Springdale Mayor Doug Sprouse.
"It's not going to hurt to put your celebration off you know, and then have your celebration later on, it might be a cooler time and more enjoyable," Partain said.
However, once July Fourth comes and goes, so do the fireworks tents. Meaning folks would need to buy their goodies now and save them for later.
"If weather conditions have improved I think Labor Day weekend would be a perfect time, you've got a three day weekend," said Sprouse.
But pulling out of this dry patch, and becoming fireworks friendly, will take a gift from Mother Nature.
"We're praying for rain!" Manson said.
The Springdale City Council held a special meeting Monday to amend the city ordinance, in order to allow fireworks to be used at a later time.
Fayetteville Council members voted unanimously Tuesday to allow Fireworks on Labor Day in place of July 4th.
"So far we ain't sold nothing, I'm hoping we get some more sales, really I do," she said.
Between the unbearable heat and fireworks bans, local stands are suffering.
"This is how we make our money and you know if we don't sell, it's going to be a loss for us," said saleswoman Freda Partain.
There is some good news. Springdale, Fayetteville and Benton County are all considering a later date to let folks light it up.
"It will help people adhere to the ban a little better if they know they'll get another shot later and it also helps those folks out there trying to make a little extra money selling fireworks," said Springdale Mayor Doug Sprouse.
"It's not going to hurt to put your celebration off you know, and then have your celebration later on, it might be a cooler time and more enjoyable," Partain said.
However, once July Fourth comes and goes, so do the fireworks tents. Meaning folks would need to buy their goodies now and save them for later.
"If weather conditions have improved I think Labor Day weekend would be a perfect time, you've got a three day weekend," said Sprouse.
But pulling out of this dry patch, and becoming fireworks friendly, will take a gift from Mother Nature.
"We're praying for rain!" Manson said.
The Springdale City Council held a special meeting Monday to amend the city ordinance, in order to allow fireworks to be used at a later time.
Fayetteville Council members voted unanimously Tuesday to allow Fireworks on Labor Day in place of July 4th.
