Fireworks sales down, but vendors remain optimistic

Tribune photo by MICHAEL SPOONEYBARGER Edgar Martin Jr. and his father Edgar Martin Sr. shop at Galaxy Fireworks on Dale Mabry Highway. TAMPA - A dreary economy and a week of rainy days put a bit of a damper on Bay area fireworks sales, but vendors remain optimistic. "This is America's birthday ... people are very proud to show their patriotism. If lighting off some fireworks helps get it done, then so be it," said Shawn Dorman, who is operating the TNT Fireworks tent at the corner of Highway 301 and Martin Luther King Boulevard. Florida law prohibits the use of "consumer grade" fireworks except for agricultural use only, but that doesn't slow down determined Independence Day revelers. Tents are selling everything from $1.50 sparkler packs to $500 shooting rocket sets. Dorman and fellow tent operator Steve Gonzalez expect to... [read full story]                    

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