— from Jaime Smith, Governor Inslee’s Communications Office —
Statement from Inslee cautioning risks posed by use of fireworks during drought:
An early wildfire season has already begun in our state, and conditions all across the state are much drier and hotter than usual. The 4th of July weekend is approaching and there is, rightfully, heightened concern about the risks posed by use of fireworks. No matter what people have done with fireworks in past years, these conditions require us all to exercise an extraordinary amount of caution and safety this year.
Pursuant to state law, some local jurisdictions have imposed restrictions or bans on fireworks, so it’s important to check with your local municipality. I have received numerous inquiries about the possibility of a statewide fireworks ban. I asked our legal team to look into our options, and it does not appear that I have the authority to initiate such a ban. Existing state law limits my authority in this area. I have, however, already issued a statewide emergency proclamation to activate additional resources that will help prevent and contain wildfires, and I’ll continue urging residents to do all they can to keep themselves and their neighbors safe this 4th of July.
**If you are reading theOrcasonian for free, thank your fellow islanders. If you would like to support theOrcasonian CLICK HERE to set your modestly-priced, voluntary subscription. Otherwise, no worries; we’re happy to share with you.**
I would actually be interested in rxplorinf other ways of celebrating the 4th beyond the use of explosives. What could we do, as a community, with $15,000 for a collective celebration? What kind of party could we throw? What could we fund for those less advantaged?
The use of fireworks to commemerate “bombs bursting in air” is perhaps outdated. And throwing those explosives up, then into our Salush Sea, disrupts pets on land and wildlife/sealife because of our “traditions”
I see Orcas Island as a thought-leader, a progressive community that sees a complex system and responds rather than reacts. My wish would be that in 2016 we raise $15,000, or more, and celebrate our INDEPENDENCE by throwing a better party.
Would it attract tourism? I think so, yes. There are MANY intentional travelers who come to Orcas to connect to a community that is connected to itself. And quite honestly, Ibam more inclined toward want to market and attract this level of conscious traveler to our island.
Lance, can you use this comment as a response to the Chamber’s survey? Hope so!
Happy 4th, All. See you on the street
Gretchen
Totally agree. A laser light show would be far better.
I could not have said it better, Gretchen! (although my spell check might have spelled it better! ;-) I am proud to be an American, but truthfully, the wastefulness of fireworks and demonstrative military posturing make the 4th my least favorite holiday of the year. Let’s honor our soldiers and celebrate this land of the free in a more intentional way! $15k could go a long way to *improving* our community – with something equally spectacular as fireworks – without the fallout. Ideas?
Yes, Jake, exploring says it better than rfxplironf, for sure. All thumbs!
Domenic, laser light show is a great idea. And I am sure there are more.
It’s already July 5th, and I’m a long way from Orcas at the moment (Massachusetts), but I want to add thumbs up to Gretchen’s idea…best one yet!! I’ll help