Fireworks Sales Boom in Sagging Economy

By Dave Jordan, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Fireworks sales are booming this Fourth of July despite the economy as Oklahomans opt for their own fireworks shows with family and friends.

"We spent $60. We'll probably spend a total of $300 by the time we're done. We like to spend money on the Fourth of July," said Lanny Seals who is planning a big Fourth celebration with family.

Cindy Rogers is also spending the Fourth with family. She walked away with about $125 worth of fireworks.

"We've come and gone to the fireworks stands. We'll come and spend $50 for $60 and it doesn't look like enough, so we'll come back and end up having to spend $50 or $60 more," Rogers said.

Clint Lawson with Liberty Fireworks spent the past few days sifting through sparklers and tons of holiday supplies, which can more than meet the demand. He said despite the recession, demand is up.

"This is the busiest I've seen in a couple of years," Lawson said. "Fourth of July Christmas people will never stop spending money. They love to pop fireworks."

And even with all the fuse lighting and fun on the fourth, Seals admitted there's a deeper message to the holiday.

"We can be families together. We can be neighborhoods and communities and celebrate as Americans and that's really what it's about for me," Seals said.

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