Sparks still fly in a recession

Fireworks can be crucial for local economies. Fireworks companies commission thousands of seasonal technicians every summer, and fireworks displays draw people to area restaurants and hotels. That's why, when La Jolla, Calif., resident Adam Harris heard that local restaurateur George Hauer -- who had paid for the town's annual fireworks for 25 years -- would no longer support the tradition, Harris founded savelajollafireworks.com to solicit donations from the township's residents and cove-side businesses.

"It was silly to think that we couldn't raise money for something that people love so much," Harris says. Harris's group raised $40,000 -- $13,000 more than the $27,000 needed for the show to go on -- in just four days. According to Jim Sousa, president of California-based Sousa Pyro Spectaculars, this show of support isn't necessarily unique: "[While some have canceled their fireworks,] many other communities have stepped up. Others have increased their budgets, knowing that people are going to stay home and not travel this year."

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