Community members respond to ban on fireworks in the city this Fourth of July
When Dan Hernandez of the Knights of Columbus received the news that fireworks use in the city of Battle Ground was banned, he took immediate action. The Knights of Columbus is one of four nonprofit organizations that received a permit to sell fireworks in the city of Battle Ground.
“As Knights, we’re called to make a difference in people’s lives,” he said, “Our board made the decision to not sell fireworks this year; the safety of our community is much more important.”
The Knights of Columbus organization, founded in 1882, is committed to making a difference in their local communities through faith, charity and patriotism.
“While we’re not selling fireworks, our stand will remain open. One-hundred percent of fireworks proceeds were to help fund programs for children, scholarships, and for the hungry and the homeless,” explained Dan, “We invite the community to stop by and get to know our organization and our values. We hope that people will support our efforts and donate what they may have spent on fireworks.”
The Knights of Columbus stand is located just off Main Street and 20th Avenue in the Albertsons parking lot. We encourage you to stop by and say hello.
A United Decision
The three remaining fireworks permit holders — the Battle Ground Elks, Battle Ground Four Square Church, and the 2022 BGHS Grad Night Committee — have all announced that they are foregoing sales, citing a sense of responsibility, and the safety and well-being for the community as a whole.
These organizations rely on fundraising, such as fireworks sales, and the generosity of donors to fund their programs that support the community. We encourage you to become familiar with their work and support their efforts.
Battle Ground Elks
The Battle Ground Elks have invested in the Battle Ground community for many years. They support the Family and Community Resource Center, helping meet the needs of families faced with housing instability and economic challenges. Recently, they donated to the National Diaper Drive to support the essential needs of young families. Ongoing programs include scholarships for Battle Ground students, a Breakfast with Santa for kids with special needs, and support for veterans.
In lieu of their fireworks stand, the Battle Ground Elks invite area residents to their Family Barbecue Open House on Sat., July 17 from 3–9 pm. Burgers, brats, and beverages will be available for purchase, and there will be games for the whole family. Here’s your chance to show off those corn hole skills, and support the efforts of the Elks organization. The Elks Lodge #2589 is located at 907 SE Grace Avenue in Battle Ground.
Battle Ground FourSquare Church
The primary use of the fireworks fundraiser for Battle Ground FourSquare Church was to fund Church Camp for middle and high school students. The 4-day camp gives kids a special opportunity to grow in their spiritual lives. Contact the church if you would like to support their efforts.
BGHS Grad Night
The Battle Ground High School Class of 2022 is a short year away from graduating from high school and entering adulthood. The BGHS Grad Night Committee offers all graduates a celebration worthy of this important milestone. Seventy percent of Grad Night fundraising comes from fireworks sales. Grad Night provides a safe environment for students to have fun and celebrate their accomplishments.
To support the 2022 BGHS Grad Night, contact Co-President Michelle Beall at (360) 904-7307 or at listitwithmichelle@gmail.com. You may donate via Venmo @BGHS Grad Night, or by mail at PO Box 854, Battle Ground, WA 98604.
Thank you
Fire Marshal Chris Drone, in announcing the decision to ban fireworks, stated that it was not an easy decision. He recognized the impact on these organizations and to the community.
“At the city, we are humbled by the level of community support we see, and we are grateful for your partnership in public safety and fire prevention,’’ read a statement in a news release from the city..
Information provided by city of Battle Ground.
