I was interviewed by Patricia Manning-Smith of KOMO 4 News on Monday afternoon about the fireworks explosion in Belfair. I appreciate the opportunity to comment on the disaster.
But what wasn’t clear when I was interviewed was the ramifications of the explosion on a small Poulsbo company, Aurora Fireworks, whose products were destroyed in the explosion. The container that blew up contained the fireworks that were to be used for three shows: Poulsbo’s 3rd of July show; Bainbridge Island’s Grand Old Fourth display, and Silverdale’s Whaling Days show on July 27.
The cost of those fireworks to Aurora was $50,000. Some were purchased directly from China; others were purchased from wholesalers here in the U.S. But now the firm has to replace the fireworks and purchase all of them from U.S. wholesalers. Rob Nitz, the owner of Aurora Fireworks, estimates that the total cost to replace them is going to be $80,000.
The owner of Belfair Truck and Auto Wrecking is, of course, responsible for the disaster. But whether his insurance covers this is unknown with any degree of certainty. Making the probable assumption that his insurer will take the position that this was not a covered incident as it had nothing to do with the wrecking yard business, Aurora Fireworks will be stuck with an $80,000 bill.
I would like the Herald to help Rob and Aurora Fireworks survive this disaster by publicizing its impact on his one-man company and asking your readers to send checks made out to “Aurora Fireworks” to Third of July Fireworks, P.O. Box 1125, Poulsbo, WA 98370.
Viking Fest Corporation organizes Poulsbo’s Viking Fest and its 3rd of July fireworks show. We will make sure all funds received are given to Rob to help him weather this financial disaster.
Aurora Fireworks is a hobby business; Rob provides the shows at virtually cost because he has a passion for pyrotechnics and making holidays like the Fourth of July special occasions for all who watch. It would be a shame to have him driven into bankruptcy by the thoughtless actions of one man.
Ron Krell
President
Viking Fest Corporation
