The annual fireworks retail boom that typically occurs during the weeks leading up to the Fourth of July holiday is in jeopardy this year due to the escalating gas prices and overall economic crunch being felt throughout America.

Area fireworks dealers say they’re still hopeful for a successful sales season, however.

This year, fireworks shoppers face record-high food prices and soaring gas prices. The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline is $4.07, which is 79 percent higher than this time last year.

An employee at a local fireworks tent says she hasn’t witnessed a noticeable change in commerce compared to this time a year ago, however.

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