Saints of Valor fireworks approved

Organizers with the Saints of Valor, a faith-based group organized in Ozark County for young and adolescent boys, submitted a request to the Gainesville City Council asking for permission to have the Foggy Bottom Fireworks company put on a seven-minute fireworks show at the Gainesville rodeo grounds on May 24-25 as part of a youth-centered event they are planning. 

The council brought up the topic at the March 12 regular session meeting, and the four council members in attendance, Lana Bushong, Dana Crisp, Ken Crawford and Renee Schmucker, voted unanimously to approve the request. The City of Gainesville has an ordinance that prohibits the use of fireworks within city limits unless approved ahead of time by the council. 

The council decided that they will publish an ad or article in the Times two weeks prior to the fireworks show so local residents can be aware of the show and make accommodations for pets that are scared of loud noises or address other elements that may arise from the fireworks. Follow the Saints of Valor Facebook page for more information on the event as plans are made.