Fireworks Shortage

A national fireworks shortage may take some of the ‘spark’ out of your Fourth of July celebrations this year.

Officials say it’s a global supply-chain problem stemming from the pandemic, with the biggest issue being a back-up in shipping and lack of storage containers.

Fireworks vendors say last year the industry boomed because of COVID-19, with those in lockdown putting on their own fireworks displays at home.

This year however, the low stock of fireworks due to shipment delays has vendors encouraging those wanting fireworks to get them early and not wait until the last minute.

And if you’re fortunate enough to acquire some of these hard-to-get fireworks, Burke County Sheriff Steve Whisenant reminds residents that as enjoyable as they are to watch, fireworks can be dangerous and should only be handled by professionals.

In a news release from the Sheriff’s Office, the US Consumer Product and Safety Commission reports there are nearly 13-thousand emergency-room treatable injuries associated with fireworks each year.

Sheriff Whisenant urges citizens to never give fireworks to small children and always follow package instructions. Keep a supply of water close-by as a precaution. Make sure the person lighting fireworks wears eye protection. Store fireworks in a cool dry place away from children and pets. Never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures, or flammable materials, and stay at least 500-feet away from professional displays.

By following a few simple precautions, Sheriff Whisenant adds the Fourth of July holiday can be happy, enjoyable, and safe for everyone.

Kittens at Animal Services

Burke County Animal Services currently has ‘kittens galore’ at their facility.

And they’re looking for members of the community to volunteer their time and homes to foster these kittens; even if it’s only for one night.

It’s free – all supplies are provided and if you have a bathroom, an office, or a spare bedroom; officials say you have plenty of space to foster.

Volunteers are also needed to assist at the shelter.

Volunteers must be 18 years or older, but there are some programs that allow for those under the age of 18 if accompanied by a parent or guardian.

To foster, or for more information about volunteering with Burke Animal Services call 764-9588.

Hickory Police Cruiser Lights

Whenever driving at night in Hickory, motorists may notice police cars using solid blue lights.

As part of Hickory Police’s ongoing Pay Attention in City Traffic initiative, officers are using their solid blue cruiser lights as a way of deterring crime and increasing visibility on heavily-traveled streets and roads.

A news release says motorists do not need to stop or yield to patrol vehicles using the solid lights during routine patrol.

Officers though will continue to activate flashing lights and sirens during emergency situations and traffic stops in which citizens are required to stop or yield the right of way.

Authorities say the patrol cruiser light utilization has been initiated in other areas across the nation with positive results.

BC Republican Event

Hopes for nice weather Saturday by the Burke County Republican Party as it will be hosting a grillin’ and chillin’ family fun day from Noon till 4 pm.

The public is invited to the free event that will be held at the Catawba Meadows Park.

Refreshments will be on hand – free hotdogs, popcorn, cotton candy, and drinks will be available until supplies are exhausted.

And there will be a corn hole tournament, along with music, an exotic bird exhibit, bouncy houses, and face painting for the kids.

Motorcycle Fatalities

A two-vehicle collision involving a motorcycle killed two people along the Blue Ridge Parkway Tuesday.

Park officials report the mishap occurred around 5 pm near Milepost 450.

70-year-old Larry McElroy and 71-year-old Brenda McElroy both from Williamson Georgia were traveling southbound on the motorcycle when officials report they crossed into the northbound lane inside a curve and struck an oncoming van.

Reports say an off-duty firefighter and a doctor who had come upon the wreck scene performed CPR on the motorcyclists; however, both died at the scene.

Those inside the van were reportedly uninjured.

Park officials continue to investigate.