EDITOR,
I am writing in response to the letter of Darlene Fitts on July 1 (“Fireworks are dangerous, an unnecessary expense,” Page 6, July 2). The Fourth of July fireworks is not a city-sponsored event. It is the major fundraiser for the Scotts Valley Advocates. The SV Advocates assist the city’s recreation division through fundraising promotional activities in providing events, programs and facilities to promote the recreational needs of the residents. The fireworks are sponsored by community businesses and residents. The successful implementation of this event consists of tireless and generous volunteers. Combined forces of the City Council and fire department ensure the event’s approval in the best interest of the community. As a result, on July 4, our streets are lined with anxious children, families and neighbors for a community parade and entertainment in the park that includes many amenities the Advocates provide. Walking through the crowd as “The Star-Spangled Banner” bellows through the cheerful crowd, I am honored to be a part of Scotts Valley.
Patti R. Malone, Scotts Valley Advocates
I saw a great editorial about this subject by KSBW 8 general manager Joe Heston just before the 4th of July. He articulated perfectly that although we are in a time of hardship, this great country of ours needs the morale boost of fireworks displays! Its a beautiful way to remind us that we are still the greatest nation in the world and we all deserve to get out of our homes one night each year and celebrate it to the fullest! To say that its dangerous is just plain silly and a very weak reason why we should not continue to have the firework displays. Also, the one comment about overtime being better used for other things, ridiculous! I can't think of a better way to use our peace officers on that special night. I might add that they do an amazing job of getting people out and back on the roads safely after the display is over. Thank you SVPD!
Darlene, you tell the children your reasons for not having the fireworks display and see how they react. OR better yet, get out your fold chair, your little hand held American flag, your favorite red-white & blue hat or shirt and join us for another spectacular night of celebrating this great nation. We would love to see you there!
God bless Scott's Valley and God bless America!
What about all of the overtime that the police department and other city agencies incur as a result of the show? My understanding is it comes out of their overtime budget, not city funds, and is not replenished or replaced by any of the funds generated from the show. Correct me if I'm wrong but perhaps their overtime would be of better use for things other than traffic control...