Bring Forth Fireworks this Fourth

Can you imagine another July 4th without fireworks?  Several of us commiserated together at a Miramar July 4th party and decided that we were not going to go another year without a lit up sky on the Coastside.  By July 10th, we had contacted American Legion Coastside Fireworks to offer our help in making the 2011 show a reality. It has been quite a learning experience, as we have come to realize the fireworks are 100% privately funded.  It takes about $50,000 to put on a Fireworks Show , and we have already raised about 20% of that through the generous donation of the Half Moon Bay Brewery. The other 2/3 is due within the next two months. For those of you that would like to see fireworks on the Coastside this July 4th, we need your help.

The economic impact of a fireworks show is a substantial boost to the Coastside economy.  When the fireworks are on, the hotels are full, the restaurants are crowded, and people come early and shop in our local stores. That in turn supports other services such as carpet cleaners and insurance companies because if the businesses do well, they need more services.  Last year when there were no fireworks, one of our major hotels was down $50,000 in revenues over the weekend. The loss of tax revenue from that one hotel alone to the city of Half Moon Bay was almost $5,000.  There is also a carry forward effect for future increase in business as many people discover the Coastside for the first time and return.

Yes, the economic boost influences me to support fireworks. But the real reason is the pure enjoyment of watching the sky lit up over the ocean as our nation celebrates it birthday. I love being able to see such a display without having to trek over the hill! The teenagers have an incentive to stay on the coast, the local businesses thrive, and the children form lasting memories.

Here is how you can help:

Attend Lobster Fest 2011 sponsored by Sams Chowderhouse at the American Legion this Sunday, May 15 12:00-5:00pm.

Donate at: www.americanlegioncoastsidefireworks.org

Sincerely,

P. Shawn McGraw