Obama in El Dorado
Obama in El Dorado Save Email Print
Posted: 3:37 PM Jan 27, 2008
 Last Updated: 2:02 PM Jan 29, 2008
 Email Address: news@kake.com
31 comments Map
A | A | A

Obama's grandparents were Kansas natives. His mother, Ann Dunham, was born at the military base in Fort Leavenworth while his grandfather eventually served in the Army during World War II.

The community event will be at the Butler Community College Gymnasium at 901 SW Haverhill Rd. on Tuesday. Doors will open at 11:45 am. Senator Obama will speak sometime after noon.
Related Links
More Stories
Parkinson Tours NW Kansas Wheat Harvest

Wichita Police Issue Several Tickets In Traffic Operation

Former Hutchinson Coach Sentenced To Probation

Fireworks Dispute Led To Weekend Shooting

 Charges Filed In Double Fatal Shooting

Toddler Backed Over By Car Appears To Be Okay

Fire, Explosion Leave Man Critically Hurt

Jury Finds Jonell Lloyd Guilty In Toddler's Murder
Post Your Comments
First Name:
Location:
Enter Comments: characters left
Email (optional):
By posting this comment I have read and agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy:
You must agree to the Terms of Service to continue.
Read Comments
Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.
Posted by: lrh Location: east wichita on Jan 29, 2008 at 09:47 PM
i think Tom Cruise would make a fine president....he could brainwash the american people into anything,,,and we would like it
Posted by: Punkin Location: Lindsborg on Jan 29, 2008 at 09:31 PM
I'm so glad to see some rebuttals to the nasty cynicism and ignorance that a few of our fellow Kansans were spewing. I had checked this site prior to making an hour and a half drive to El Dorado in case the weather had held up the Senator. Unfortunately, I was met with the nastiness of bigots. Refusing to dampen my spirits before heading to see the next President, I quickly closed this site and said a prayer that these lunatics would keep themselves occupied at home on their computers a long safe distance from the festivities.
Posted by: Marnie Location: El Dorado on Jan 29, 2008 at 04:10 PM
I stood in line, I heard the speech. It was worth the wait. I hadn't decided on a candidate before I went, but I may have done just that now. Senator Obama is an inspiring speaker with some interesting and innovative ideas. If we really do want change, it is time to listen to new voices. It’s also time for politics to stop being about putting the other person down (or a candidate you don’t agree with down). Listen before you judge. Hear what a person has to say. Choose because of what you think is important, but don’t waste time and energy badmouthing those you don’t agree with. If we want politics “cleaned up” we need to follow that philosophy ourselves.
Posted by: Darren Location: USA on Jan 29, 2008 at 02:17 PM
Go Obama! Kansas supports you!!!
Posted by: Hank Location: Arlington, TX on Jan 29, 2008 at 01:40 PM
As a native Kansan (from Wichita) I am ashamed of what I am reading!!! If you decide to vote against any candidate based on philosophical differences, that's fine. The outright venom born of racism and misinformation is disgusting. For the record, Barack Obama is a Christian; the person who took his oath of office on the Koran was Keith Ellison, Congressman from Minnesota. Please don't waste anyone's time with veiled racist remarks. At least be true to yourself and say you will not vote for him because he is either Black or a Democrat and you maintain some credibility. Barack Obama's viability as an agent of change is unquestioned. Listen to his views and either vote for him or against him based on fact. If you take the time to listen to him, you cannot help but come away with a feeling of inspiration and hope. After 8 years of a functional illiterate in office, don't we owe it to ourselves to explore any reasonable alternative?
Posted by: Tim Location: McPherson on Jan 29, 2008 at 01:29 PM
Ignorance kills. Try reading the Koran before quoting it. People need to research what they hear and not take everything said as the absolute.
Posted by: Addie Location: Jr. Andover Central High School on Jan 29, 2008 at 12:58 PM
Just curious, we went online and rsvp'd for the event under the presumption that we would have a place in the gym. When we arrived, we found out that the eticket had no effect and we had to stand in line for two hours with everyone else. Was that false advertising or did we misunderstand the point of the eticket?
Posted by: John Location: Northern Kansas on Jan 29, 2008 at 12:54 PM
Obama is the inspiration and the kind of leader we all need today. I am proud that there's still a politician of his caliber out there who is willing to be President. He would be much better off personally not putting himself through this campaign -- he is doing it for us. It's time for us as Americans to believe in something better again. Don't let fear run your life -- we all deserve better than the old, tired political dynasties.
Posted by: Elizabeth Location: Chicago on Jan 29, 2008 at 12:15 PM
Hey, Kansas, the world is watching and it's a little unnerving to see those of you who are calling him out as not a "real" Christian or not supporting the constitution or what... being not a "real" American because his father is an immigrant? Shame on you. It's because he's black that you have a problem with him. Do you think that's not painfully obvious? Get over it.
Posted by: Sonny Location: Wichita on Jan 29, 2008 at 12:11 PM
A person does not choose their name. That is normally a parental decision. This man is intelligent and has seen both sides of the econmomic latter. He is not part of the status quo for DC. I can hardly believe some of the statements made by folks for Kansas. Bias at least. Accept people as honest and sincere unless you have solid data to the contary. I believe this man is sincere and will make a difference. I'm a republician and intend to vote for this candidate for president.
Posted by: sharon Location: central kansas on Jan 29, 2008 at 12:03 PM
If we are really looking for change, and do not like the way Washington is running, my suggestion is that everyone should actually open their minds, and listen to the truly innovative ideals outlined by John Paul in his web-site. He is the only candidate that has a tangible CHANGE agenda: He is being ignored and censored by the media. Grass-roots, revive!
Posted by: H.G.Smith Location: wichita,ks. on Jan 29, 2008 at 11:40 AM
I want to say that it is great that Obama is coming to Kansas. He does have ties to this great state. For those who make character attacks on Obama should keep quite. You only reinforce the belief that Kansas is a racist state, because all of the negative comments sounds like it's about race and not the issues. This country needs change and Obama represents that change not only in its policies but the face of our nation. for those who only see a black man. His father is a black man and his mother is a white women. So remember he is just as white as he is black.
Posted by: ????? Location: BCC on Jan 29, 2008 at 11:39 AM
What a nightmare. If you registered for a ticket, you aren't guaranteed a seat. After standing in a stampede situation for 1.5 hours waiting inside to be seated, I gave up. It wasn't worth the potential injuries. This is complete unorganized chaos.
Posted by: JoAnn Location: Newton on Jan 29, 2008 at 11:05 AM
To say this, shows the world how Kansas has its head in the sand! How childish! Get a life, read a newspaper! "how do you know he is from ks. maybe it is just a cover up look at his name sounds like BIN LAUNDE"
Posted by: JoAnn Location: Newton on Jan 29, 2008 at 10:58 AM
This is exciting! Kansas is always overlooked by the candidates. Wouldn’t it be great if Kansans would start opening their minds and hearts to make a "real" change! Instead of just following along as they always have. To say " learn to put his hand on the bible and put his hand on his heart and SAY the pledge of legence" is so stupid! That is just internet crap! and your ignorant if you believe it!
Posted by: ricky on Jan 29, 2008 at 10:47 AM
wow ! KS should be proud !
Posted by: sylvia Location: Dodge City on Jan 29, 2008 at 08:19 AM
John F. Kenndey, & Obama, I have respected the Kenndey's word, if if is like John F. then he should be the one for us. John F. was the best president we had, and would of changed this world, if the Kenndey's feel this way about Obama, then my vote has changed from Hillary to Obama.
Posted by: Nick Location: Wichita on Jan 29, 2008 at 07:49 AM
Some of you really need to do your research and not put stock in internet propeganda before you open your holier than thou mouths.
Posted by: mike Location: Wichita on Jan 29, 2008 at 06:07 AM
Obama is Christian, some people, Christians need to quit lying. It is not his decision to not allow signs but Butler. Some of you people need to spit out your snuff, read the news, and become informed. You embarass Kansas and Christianity. I will vote for Obama in the Caucas, not Hillary. I will vote for Huckabee or McCain in the general if running against Obama, If Romney gets the nomination and runs against Clinton, I likely won't vote.
Posted by: JK Location: Northern Kansas on Jan 28, 2008 at 10:54 PM
Please dont vote for him because his mommy is from Kansas, whooptie doo.... Think he needs to learn to put his hand on the bible and put his hand on his heart and SAY the pledge of legence. How can he lead this country when he won't do those 2 things? what else won't he do?
Posted by: ????? Location: ????? on Jan 28, 2008 at 10:13 PM
how do you know he is from ks. maybe it is just a cover up look at his name sounds like BIN LAUNDE
Posted by: Lynn Location: Kansas on Jan 28, 2008 at 09:35 PM
The appearance of change, or the promise of change, is not change in itself. I want to know, will he really be any different than all the other inflated windbags in office now or those he is running against? Can he really create change and not just the illusion of it? People can get caught up in the appearance of it all, what might look like change might be the same old thing in different wrapping paper. I am not convinced. But then again, I am not convinced any single one of the candidates running are running because of a true selfless desire to serve the People, but have egos the size of Air Force One and puppet masters behind them telling them what to do and what to say. I find politics today to be full of liars who have sold their souls to lobbyists! It is trully disgusting. I hope one of the candidates is trully worthy to be president and that the worthiest wins.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: El Dorado on Jan 28, 2008 at 07:08 PM
AMERICA WAKE UP! My experience and conversations with one's who read the Koran it reads to be a Christian, or an Infidel is to die! Beware, Americans do not be hoodwinked - remember he, the evil one uses anyone and anybody to devour away from the truth like a lion as an advocate to do evil means of work. Jesus turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men." Matthew 16:23
Posted by: MARTI Location: WICHITA on Jan 28, 2008 at 05:08 PM
OBAMA---NOBODY CARES!!
Posted by: tyler Location: rose hill on Jan 28, 2008 at 11:25 AM
He is a Christian. Mom from kansas, dad from Kenya. He grew up poor and overcame diversity. I know what youre getting at and I don't like it.
Posted by: Ian Page Location: USA on Jan 28, 2008 at 11:15 AM
Yes mike I agree, you should check out his record and policy statements THEN vote for him.
Posted by: Sue Location: Wichita on Jan 28, 2008 at 10:19 AM
Vote for Obama,He is the man for our. president He is a native from kansas,
Posted by: Anonymous Location: sedg. co. on Jan 28, 2008 at 09:20 AM
go home. go home.
Posted by: Chris Location: Wichita on Jan 28, 2008 at 08:55 AM
Is it not a violation of freedom of speech to not allow signs and banners? This guy is running for president....shouldn't he be upholding the constitution?
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 28, 2008 at 08:36 AM
he is a good guy and I am a republican...but I think I am going to vote for him!
Posted by: mike Location: wichita on Jan 27, 2008 at 05:40 PM
do people know this guys backround? Should check before they get behind him..
National AP Video
Twitter News Feed
    KAKE Most Popular
    1. Fire, Explosion Leave Man Critically Hurt
    2. Toddler Backed Over By Car Appears To Be Okay
    3. Argument Over Holiday Meat Leads to Stabbing
    4. Fireworks Dispute Led To Weekend Shooting
    5. Hit & Run Driver Sought In Fatal Accident
    6. Arrests Made During Weekend DUI Saturation Patrol
    7. Jury Finds Jonell Lloyd Guilty In Toddler's Murder
    8. 4-year-old NW Kan. Boy Dies in Forklift Accident
    9. Former NFL Quarterback McNair Killed in Tennessee
    10. Police: Argument Led To Double Fatal Shooting
    KAKE Most Discussed
    OKC Bomber Sues Over Prison Food
    70 Comments
    Racing Drivers Stopped In Wichita Speed Trap
    47 Comments
    Fire Department: Fireworks Are Illegal In Most Of Sedgwick County
    47 Comments
    Michael Jackson Dead at 50
    46 Comments
    Police Release New Information In Saturday Homicide Case
    44 Comments
    New Information On Teen Shooting
    38 Comments
    Extras
    Bargain Buys
    Click here for deals on food, dining, services, activities and getaways!
    Wichita Wingnuts Fans
    Click here to view and submit your photos from the Wichita Wingnuts game!
    First United Methodist Church of Wichita
    Click here to watch Sunday services live.
    Braggin' Board
    Click here to view fish pictures on the Braggin' Board.
    Showcased Comments
    Fire Department: Fireworks Are Illegal In Most Of Sedgwick County
    • Posted By: Pres: People should not be complaining for an enforcement to the ban just because fireworks are 'annoying'. Old people driving annoy me, but I'm not out calling for a ban on them. As long as they don't infringe on my safety, they have a right too! Same should be said with my fireworks. If I am not causing any direct harm to you or your property, quit complaining! Also, when did this become an 'Anti-fireman' thread? May they be blessed for all they do. But at the same time, they know what they are up against everytime they go out. Fireworks or no fireworks. I know I couldn't do their job. Just be safe and smart!
    • Posted By: : Park city looked like the first Iraq war last night!!! It was spectacular,the whole sky was lit up waaayyyy into the night in ALL neighborhoods...like it is EVERY year and did not have ONE incident of a feild or house fire! Sorry you people in Wichita did not get to enjoy! If you're good...we might let you come and see us shoot them next year...but thats only if you're good..kiddys.
    • Posted By: Stacy: These guidelines are good. However, I'm new to Wichita and I have to say I'm shocked at how many people shoot off fireworks in the city proper and in parking lots of businesses andapartment buildings (like the one I live in). If it's illegal to do this, why on earth is it so commonplace? I was in the military for a few years, about 3 of which were spent in a lot of different areas of the continental U.S., not to mention the nearly 18 years I grew up in mosly Montana. I never before have seen an entire city with so many amateur fireworks displays inside of city limits. Law enforcement, why aren't you enforcing anything?
    • Posted By: Anonymous: I agree with Frankie although the sedgwick county fire department says they only enforce the law, they pushed for the fireworks ban. I believe the original was in 1978. I know it was after bottle rockets were made illegal in Kansas. I wish government would quit trying to protect us from ourselves, we need protection from them. I'm sure our tax dollars paid for the signs, putting them up, and then for taking them down stuck all over! KAKE needs to go through it's archives and find the original ban the sedgwick county commissioners signed and also read the constitution it says that we have the right to celebrate our independance with fireworks. For those complaining about fires in rural areas I've lived out in rural sedgwick for over 50 years and the instance of a house or wheatfield fire being caused by fireworks is pretty uncommon. It's a sparsely populated area unlike city living and fireworks tend to go up not shoot out for miles. Farmers intentionally light the stubble after harvest!
    • Posted By: Firefighter: Fireworks were banned in Sedgwick County in 1978. Why? There weren't enough firefighters and equipment to go around. Calls were waiting for a response. Firefighters came to work at 7:00 and didn't see their station until the following morning. There were was much damage to fire equipment. The County department had a tank truck roll. This type of response had been occuring for several years. This doesn't even speak to the damage to stuctures, possesions and the persons that where injured. The departments and civic leaders said enough,and fireworks were banned. Some of you say we are unamerican. Far from the truth. You have asked us to watch after you and assist in the time of need. Sometimes that means prevetion instead of action. I love fireworks as much as the next person. Fireworks have slowly made it back into many communities. If everyone can prove they have self control and caution when using fireworks then, they may come back everywhere. Stay safe this 4th.
    • Posted By: Anonymous: I guess I'm one of the hundreds of others that did not realize ALL FIREWORKS WERE ILLEGAL! (At least For those of us living outside a city limits in sedgwick county). I knew that while some cities Belle Plaine, Clearwater, Haysville, etc.. chose to allow BIG STUFF (the aerials) Wichita did not. The 78' fireworks ban was for the BIG STUFF!! The unincorporated areas had to follow sedgwick county's allowable fireworks same as the city of wichita chose to do. What year did they sneak in NO FIREWORKS AT ALL OF ANY TYPE for unincorporated sedgwick county?? It wasn't in the original ban. Living outside the city limits of any town, even when ALL FIREWORKS were allowed there were no fireworks stands out here, and the news was saying buy where you live, I called the no fire number for the sedgwick county fire department and asked where we should buy fire works that would be legal and I was told in wichita city limits. This is unconstitutional, prejudiced and segregates rural sedgwick county!!!!
    • Posted By: George Washington: This is all silly. I am going outside to set off Fireworks.
    • Posted By: Susan: Ok, I will expect everyone who is upset to show up at the next Sedgwick County council meeting. If you don't even at least call your councilman, than you should not complain.
    • Posted By: Shaun: I think that people in the county needs to remember that this day is to celebrate or freedom as a country!!! China gave us fireworks to help US and a COUNRTY celebrate. To me this is UNAMERICAN!!! Yes, i agree that the big ones that can set major fires sould probly not be shot in rural areas. And all though this law don't affect me personally, it still does as I am a soldier and an American. I am proud of my country. Even if I could only shoot off fountains or what ever I still think that is better than nothing. As long as the person shooting them off is doing it on a concrete surface I don't see why they can't have small fireworks!!!!!
    • Posted By: donald otnes: My daughter called me at 10:15 pm on July 2, 2009. She had people setting off fireworks in her housing district. The kids were firing off the ones that sound like a bomb going off. Are people that stupid to let kids have fireworks that could blow up and take a hand off or even there face.
    • Posted By: miss america: My family is apparently among the wild, irresponsible rednecks in unincorporated Sedgwick county that have shot off fireworks every year on the 4th since I was a baby. It's true there is a need to protect farmers' wheatfields, so I can understand why the county might ban the big fireworks that fly up in the air, and bottle rockets, etc. But, why shouldn't we be able to at least set off the smaller fireworks, such as fountains, that are less dangerous? Why are our families denied the privilege of celebrating the 4th in a safe, fun way just because we live in the unincorporated areas? This fireworks ban on the 4th needs to be loosened up. It's really not fair.
    • Posted By: a: Think about this people! Fireworks are loud and anoying! I am so sick of people setting them off late at night while we are trying to sleep! My baby is being kept up by fireworks because people set them off at two in the morning!Please just think about where you are setting them off like close to houses and apartment buildings. Those are not good places to be doing them!
    • Posted By: Firefighters daughter: For those who think that firefighters just "sit around" you obviously have no idea what these people do. Just looking at the 4th, I can recall as a child how we all wondered if my dad would get to finish his hamburger before being called out to yet another of the many fires he went on that day . The work they do isn't restricted to a summer holiday. Think about the gear they wear...heavy coats, boots, air tanks, even on 100 degree days. Take a walk in their boots and face the fires, car accidents, tornado/storms, floods, and other emergencies they must face with courage, calm, and strength in order to save lives and property. As for "washing the truck" and other maintenance that must be done, do you want a rusted out, broken hosed truck showing up at your house because they DIDN't do those things? I hope they do get a chance to relax, eat, sleep, etc. between the emergencies they must face. I want a well rested and ready fire fighter showing up at my house should I ever need one
    • Posted By: rebecca: hey does anyone know if the little boy that went into QT has been found? I know this isn't the topic but I just wanted to know.
    • Posted By: : h: I believe that fireworks like Black Cats can be used in Derby as well as Wichita (it's been a long time since I've done any here so I wouldn't definitely know). But they might be setting off something bigger like an M50. The main problems they've had is with the ones that burst into showers of colored balls and sparks like we see in the big displays, roman candles, M80s and the ones that spray out sparks. The Eagle Beacon, last year, said that a good rule of thumb is if they shoot out sparks more than about 6 feet from the device then they are probably illegal.
    • Posted By: h: well they are sure shooting them in derby and we're in sedgwick county either they are not banned or the police in derby are not doing anything about the ones that are shooting off fireworks already. Frankly I'm sick of it, the neighborhood kids are shooting them off close to my property and my dogs are having fits, a call to the local police dpt says nothing they can do....so if they are banned in sedgwick county then they should be banned in derby and the derby police dpt needs to start enforcing the ban, if they aren't banned in derby then they need to be, there are other ways of having a good time on the 4th of July without having to endanger your yard, my yard, your life!!!!
    • Posted By: : If everyone was a responible person that means for their self and for the one's that have children, then we wouldn't have had these laws made.The population is so high now that the fire departments are on overload because of the people that will not take responsiblity for their actions.And as far as the fire department setting around!!! Let your house be on fire and then have to wait because these people are not at their work area's because you think they are setting around.I would hate for them to be kept busy 24/7. What would happen to our town without them if that were the case.Already the street that I live on is littered with trash from fire works because people are not responsibly.(not all)
    • Posted By: D: I completely agree with Anonymous at 9:26. Linda, unless you've been living under a rock, it's been well known for years that fireworks are illegal in the city limits. They make the same announcements every year. They don't sell the "big" illegal fireworks in the city but everyone still goes out of city limits to buy them and then come back home and shoot them off out in the neighborhood streets. I've seen fireworks in my neighborhood that would rival the ones at riverfest and Lawrence Dumont stadium and they aren't legal in the city.
    • Posted By: : Cliff: That's true but when they are burned off purposely there are fire control measures in place. When someone sets a fire with fireworks they tend to run away and then it gets out of control. Like I said, I've missed work because of people who do this. The reason why they made them illegal in Sedgwick County to begin with is because most people here are not responsible enough to use them safely. And Linda: They've been telling people every year that they are illegal. Most people just don't pay attention. And they only selll fireworks in Wichita that you can set off in Wichita. That's why they've always said "Shoot them where you buy them".
    • Posted By: Rod: I'm with 'Anonymous on Jul 1, 2009 at 08:08 AM'... Helps us Obama! We need you to protect us from ourselves! ALL PRAISE OBAMA!!!
    • Posted By: Linda: Ok, for one I think if they were illegal, than why didn't we know about it along time ago. I bet that the majority of the people that lives in Wichita didn't know this, and I think it is not right to start enforcing it NOW, I mean come on the main reason why people shoot of fireworks is for the kids entertainment, Also if its going to be illegal than why on earth should selling fireworks at the stands not be? People see the signs that fireworks are illegal, but when they are driving around wichita and see firework stands it just tempts them that much more. So I think its not right.
    • Posted By: cliff: anonomous at 8;08, fireworks are a tradition on the fourth of july. and the "tinderbox "harvesed wheat fields are usually burnt off this time of year anyway even without fireworks.
    • Posted By: : Bottle Rocket Roger: What makes you think being American means you should have the right to set off explosives? For the idiots who think they need to have fireworks: how many of you have to call into work and tell your boss you can't come in because some moron set fire to your house or yard? What about when they go outside the city & set them off in newly harvested wheat fields that are nothing more than tinderboxes at this time of year? Every year for the past six years I've lost pay because idiots cannot control themselves or the fires they set.
    • Posted By: don: its really sad,,,,we are not hardly even "independent" anymore,,,the government has "used" up all are rights,,,,,like the ol' saying goes though "just be glad your not getting ALL the government you pay for",,,,,period, end of sentence !!!!
    • Posted By: : Anonymous who is coming down on firefighters and their "lazy days of washing the trucks and sleeping and cooking meals" has no clue what firefighters do and how many calls many of the stations get,though many are medical. Firefighters are not exactly unpatriotic joy-squelchers, but they are supposed to educate the general public about fire safety. If you even understood all the job entailed you wouldn't talk like that.
    • Posted By: Bottle Rocket Roger: When I lived in a town just north of wichita,we were able to shoot fireworks ALL day long for a week..Park City allows fireworks ALL day long for week,NO problems in either town! We celebrate the 4th like americans in these towns! The people that made fireworks illegal in Wichita and hate the fireworks are ALL UNAMERICAN! Go hide in you're basements and shake like a coward..the M80's are coming!
    • Posted By: : We need two things immediately. One, a petition to remove this descriminatory 1978 law against residents of the county, and secondly, another petition to remove the authors of this law if they are still in office, and any other person in authority that supports it. I'll drive any distance to sign those petitions. Our tax dollars were used to print and post these signs and will also be used again to remove them, and patrol neighborhoods looking for little kids shooting ladyfinger firecrackers. This travesty of the use of our tax dollars must be exposed with those that have attacked Independence Day.
    • Posted By: Bob: Enforce the law! Many firewoks are dangerous, destructive, and disturbing--especially to pets.
    • Posted By: : I never knew there were so many un-educated people around the state. It even says in the text of the story, that the fire department is not going to be doing extra patrolling, due to staffing. People are very careless with their fireworks in the "uncorperated" area's of the county. You add wind, and some dry wood, or brush.. And you cause a very dangerous situation, and put those "poorly staffed" fire deparments that respond in danger. ****If you live in a town/city in "sedgwick County".. you need to check your local laws. The no fireworks law - is for "uncorprated" - aka *NOT IN CITY LIMITS*
    • Posted By: Michelle: Can't we come to a compromise? Make them illigal everyday of the year, except the 4th? I agree with the ones on here that said we are celebrating our FREEDOM! This is what the USA is about. Hotdogs, baseball and fireworks! 8-)
    • Posted By: Kristy: "But many like Sedgwick County Resident Michael Dixson don't plan on breaking the law." Seriously - someone who writes for a news station should be familiar with proper grammar usage.
    • Posted By: : How ironic it is that it's Independance Day however; they tell you that you can't fire off any fireworks.....at least any that are worth paying money for. Yes, we're slowly on our way to becoming a communist country. I miss Archie Bunker!
    • Posted By: : Why even celebrate??? Pretty sad when Amerians can't participate in the tradation and celebration of America's Indepandance. I feel for you rual Sedwick County people. Sedwick County SUCKS!!
    • Posted By: Tim: The Fire Department IS NOT encouraging people to call 911 every time they see people shooting fireworks, this will create an unnecessary strain on the 911 system. The problem is being worked on and will take time to get things all straightened out. If you have an emergency or a problem that warrants calling 911 by all means call 911. What is not needed is a call to 911 every time you see someone shooting a firecracker.
    • Posted By: : The fire departments are going out of their way with NO FIREWORKS signs just because they don't want to have to work any more than they have to. Little fire here and there disrupts their lazy days of washing the trucks and sleeping and cooking meals!
    • Posted By: topper: at one time you couldn't shoot fire works in dodge, now that we can the 2nd through the 5th i think. i havent heard of more fires or whatever it is you think is going to happen if you were to allow.. its the 4th of july, and you stoping people from celebrating. thats dumb if you ask me. besides, people are going to shoot them off no matter what you do.
    • Posted By: Frankie: The Fire Department says it only enforces the law against fireworks in Sedgwick County, but I've lived here since 1938 and I remember that it was the Sedgwick County Fire Department that pushed for the County Commissioners to pass the illegal fireworks law.
    • Posted By: anoymous: It is a little confusing, because Park City has fireworks tents all over, but I thought Bel Aire and Park City were actually their own "cities", and not part of unincorporated Sedgwick County. And they are allowed in Goddard,I checked out the website. I wish there was a central list posted where they are legal/illegal, because I do think there is confusion about this, especially when I thought I heard people in Bel Aire saying they purchased permits in the past. Can anyone elaborate?
    • Posted By: Debby: If they are illegal why are they sold in the city where they are illegal?
    • Posted By: : Isn't it funny how it's called Independance Day but yet big brother wants to tell us we can't shoot fireworks? Screw you big brother!! I'm firing mine off!!
    • Posted By: Elmer: I saw on the news that you are asking the neighbors to report the people who are using fireworks to the police. Hitler did the same thing when enforcing his laws. Are we coming closer to socialist government, or are you just trying to create a community that is untenable due to loss of trust in neighbors? I can't believe we are repeating history again.
    • Posted By: bob: i think the county is forgetting what we are celebrating, our independence. so they should let us shoot them where you buy them.
    • Posted By: Justin: Land of the Free, My hind end. Restrictions yes, understandable. But, all out ban? This is not the America I fought for!!!!! Maybe before long we won't have any independence to celebrate!!! And I'm sure the fire fighters are just having to do what there told. Heck, most of them love fire or they wouldn't be doing there job.
    • Posted By: : "fire dept only enforces the law" im sure they had a say in how it was created. thats like saying police dont have a quota when writing tickets when im sure they do. how else are police measured when trying for promotions and raises--its by how many tickets they write, how many crimes they solve, ect. people are gonna shoot off fireworks and worry bout what happens later because this is the one time in the year that we get to do so! plus it helps celebrate america's birthday !!
    • Posted By: Mikea: I sure wish there was something we could do about the rednecks who insist on setting off the big heavy skybursts in our neighborhood at 1am every night. Fireworks should be illegal inside the city. Loud car radios are, and fireworks are more dangerous.
    • Posted By: Bob: Ok maybe this is a stupid question, but what is unincorporated Sedgwick County? What is meant by that?
    • Posted By: AJ Simkatu: Everyone knows that fireworks that go up in the sky are illegal, even in the city of Wichita. The problem is that nobody cares. Most people think the ban is a ridiculous overreaction to a small problem. People are sick of the nanny state telling us what we can and can't do with our own lives and property. What's next, ban skydiving, skiing, riding dirt bikes, mountain climbing? The government needs to mind its own business and stay out of ours.
    Click Here to Read Story and Post Comments