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| Monday, Jun 30 2008 7:03 PM
Last Updated: Monday, Jun 30 2008 7:06 PM
Fourth of July fireworks have long been associated with patriotism. Those "bombs" bursting in air represent our willingness to defend our freedoms.
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Fireworks also lend themselves to family and neighborhood gatherings, reinforcing the sense of community that's such an important part of American life.
But this summer, with wildfires raging across the state, fireworks represent something quite different: the potential for further harm.
California is on fire, and the evidence hangs in the sky like a gray shroud. It's gotten so bad that Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger is asking Californians not to blow off fireworks this Independence Day.
In any other year, that might have seems like heresy. But this summer, with white ash from distant infernos cascading to earth with a silent, false innocence, it makes sense.
Kern County residents should find different ways to celebrate the 4th of July this year.
Choosing not to purchase street fireworks from roadside stands, typically staffed by volunteers working for churches, community organizations and other nonprofit groups, is a tough call to make. But if you hate the idea of seeing those groups take a revenue hit this summer, make a straight donation. Then go home and enjoy hot dogs, watermelon and apple pie.
For your fireworks thrills, attend the 54th annual Red, White and Boom Fireworks Show at 6 p.m. at Bakersfield College Memorial Stadium. The event is presented by the Bakersfield Firefighters Relief Association. Tickets are available at any city fire station and Longs Drug stores.