Fireworks business nearly a dud due to virus, but companies fire off big bangs for the buck in Ray, Clay

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Fireworks business nearly a dud due to virus, but companies fire off big bangs for the buck in Ray, Clay

Fri, 07/10/2020 - 03:17
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RICHMOND – Specialists in fireworks displays have joined the ranks of other companies hurt by the coronavirus, COVID-19. Before the Richmond fireworks show at Southview Park, head shooter Sean McLaughlin said business is down for J&M Displays. The Yarmouth, Iowa-based company normally entertains crowds across the nation, from the East to West coasts, not only for Independence Day, but at venues including ballparks and concerts. This year, the situation is different and not in a good way, McLaughlin says. “It is very unusual. All fireworks business (for community events) is extremely off this year,” he says while standing with his crew beside the storage trailer that brought fireworks to the city. “Lots of communities and organizations are not shooting organized shows.” Sales for backyard shooters is up, though, Justin Palmer says. Palmer is head shooter for Schneitter Fireworks, St. Joseph, which put on Friday’s Excelsior Springs show. “Fireworks business has been booming this…

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