Firework sales: An explosive stimulous package
By: Mitch Carr
Updated: June 24, 2009
Cover your ears and look to the skies, Lubbock. It's fireworks season. Fireworks stands in Lubbock County officially opened for business today. They'll be helping lubbockites celebrate independence day in the loudest way possible. But for Nashee' Patrick, fireworks season is more than sparks and smoke. Its a great chance to make some money.
"I'm working for my mother, and she's a teacher, and so we do this every summer for a little bit extra cash," Patrick said.
Vendors told us that stands are expected to make more than $30,000 in this 10-day period.
TNT Fireworks spokeswoman Jan Johnson told us they might even make more thanks to some friendly weather patterns.
"Last year we were unable to sell rockets because we had some drought conditions in the county and surrounding areas. This year that situation doesnt exist, and so we'll be able to sell stick rockets for the first time in a couple years," Johnson said.
So for patrick, a Texas Tech student from Idalou, the Fourth of July is just as much about capitalism as it is about patriotism.
And for the family, it's a way of getting over the summer hump in these tough economic times.
When the sun sets on july 4th, Patrick said it's time to enjoy the show.
"We sit here and just watch all the fireworks and usually i shoot a couple fireworks. "
