They've been a San Diego tradition for decades, but this Independence Day the fireworks could be silenced above La Jolla Cove and the silence could be deafening for those who've grown to love the annual tradition.
"I remember being four years old and going down to La Jolla Cove and feeling this sense of pride of a community," said Adam Harris, who is now trying to raise money in an effort to save the show.
Harris, who just found out about the cancellation of the fireworks, started the Web site www.savelajollafireworks.com and said that as of Monday morning they were halfway to their goal of raising $27,000.
"I think the biggest difficulty we're facing right now is most people don't know the fireworks are cancelled," said Harris. The La Jolla native has been given until Wednesday to come up with the money and said he's feeling optimistic about his chances: "I think we're gonna do it."
The La Jolla Light reported on Monday afternoon that fundraising efforts were nearing $23,000.
George Hauer, owner of "George's At The Cove" restaurant, used to pay for the 4th of July fireworks, but due to the recession and loss of grants recently announced he'd be unable to fund the show. Hauer has volunteered to coordinate all of the last minute permits and red tape needed as long as Harris's website can generate the money for the pyrotechnic pricetag.
