In response to Cate Gable’s opinion piece regarding fireworks: For the most part, Cate, I do agree with what you have to say. I take exception with the idea that it is the fireworks vendors who should pay to have the beach clean up.

For one, they sell only “legal” fireworks. The fireworks, along with the other festivals that are promoted by the city and local business associations, cause an exponential growth of the numbers of people flocking to the beach for these activities. Add the triple-digit temperatures inland and you get even more seeking the comfort of the beach. And, these are the same businesses that reap the benefits of this being a tourist town.

It is my opinion that all the local businesses pay a part of their profits from these events occurring to pay for the beach to be cleaned rather than depend on volunteers.

In addition to the mess that people leave behind, these imported illegal fireworks can cause serious injury, as well. If you are not aware, there was a tragic accident in the crowd of people enjoying the fireworks on the 4th in Crescent City, California. It involved illegal fireworks and an accidental explosion that sent 14 to the hospital and one 3-year-old child to Doernbecker’s in Portland who was injured when he took a direct hit to his back by one of the mortars. Two arrests have been made, thus far.

TERRI MILLER

Long Beach