And here's a pleasant memory for those of you that grew up or have lived in Lorain: the July 4th Fireworks sponsored by Hills Department Store. The ad above ran in the Lorain Journal back on July 3, 1962.
It's interesting how Hills really made an effort to get you to come out to the store and shop. It really wasn't all that close (it was halfway to Elyria and in South Lorain to boot) but it was a regular stop for the Bradys, especially since it had the layaway option. We bought a lot of clothes and toys there.
I don't know how long the Hills fireworks tradition lasted. I know that we watched fireworks at Hills some years and at George Daniel Field as well. I remember parking at Admiral King High School and walking over there.
Nowadays (I hate to say it) fireworks don't interest me a whole lot. If I'm at a festival that has them (like Sheffield Lake Community Days) then I'm all for them and will stick around. But I'm not sure I would make a special trip anymore to see any, especially if there is a potential hassle getting out of there afterwards.