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July 5, 2009

Fireworks postponed

Nature puts damper on long-standing tradition

Derrick Miller

DUNCAN — Fireworks on the Fourth of July have been a long-standing tradition. But on Saturday, it was nature that was giving its own version of fireworks.

Lightning and rain put a damper on some Stephens County residents’ Fourth of July plans to watch fireworks displays. Both Duncan and Marlow fireworks were postponed because of lightning.

Debra Burch, Duncan Chamber of Commerce and Industry president, decided to cancel the display around 8 p.m. after the pyrotechnic people told her it could be dangerous to set off fireworks, especially with the lightning.

Burch said she wanted to ensure the safety of everyone in attendance.

By 7:30 p.m., numerous vehicles were already beginning to park in the parking lot across from Halliburton Stadium. Many people were asking the same question, “Are they going to have fireworks?”

The answer came as a resounding “No,” but Burch and other Chamber members began to discuss a possible make up date for the fireworks display. Although nothing was official Saturday night, Burch said she would like to have the fireworks on July 17, which is the first day of the World’s Largest Garage Sale, this year.

Duncan Fire Chief Larry Sullins stopped by the stadium and sent some people home by letting them know about the cancellation.

Burch said this is the first time the event was moved from the Duncan Golf and Country Club, and this was the first event she’s had to cancel because of weather since she took over the Chamber three years ago.

“There’s a lot of first here,” Burch said.

In Marlow, lightning and rain also caused the postponement of the annual fireworks display in Redbud Park.

Marlow Chamber Executive Director Debbe Ridley said the decision was made by a joined effort of the Marlow Lion’s Club, Fire Department and Police Department. This decision was based on the safety of the community and its residents.

Ridley said the lightning was one of the main concerns.

“I’m sure it was the lightning,” she said.

While the fireworks display was canceled for the Fourth of July, she said they will most likely be rescheduled, although she wasn’t sure when they will take place.

Much like Duncan, many people turned out to see the display.

“The park was full,” Ridley said. “Everyone was there, just waiting.”

Regardless of when the Duncan and Marlow fireworks displays are rescheduled, one thing holds true.

“It won’t be the Fourth of July,” Burch said.

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