State recognizes fireworks twice this week


July 2, 2015 at 12:00a.m.

By Kalea Hall

khall@vindy.com

YOUNGSTOWN

Youngstown-based Phantom Fireworks received good news after good news this week from the state.

First, passage of the state budget bill means Phantom customers next year no longer will have to fill out forms that require disclosure of personal information and an acknowledgment that using fireworks within Ohio’s borders is against state law.

Second, the Ohio Secretary of State’s Office recognized Phantom Fireworks for its Ohio Business Profile Program.

“It is the time of year that Phantom Fireworks – not only in Ohio, but throughout the U.S. – celebrates America’s birthday,” said Bruce Zoldan, Phantom Fireworks president and chief executive officer. “We are proud of what we do.”

Phantom Fireworks has about 76 superstores and 1,500 seasonal stands or tents. The company was founded more than 30 years ago in Youngstown and now has locations throughout the U.S. Three new locations just opened in Atlanta, Ga.

The secretary of state’s office looked at patriotic businesses for this month’s business profiles. Outside of Phantom, five other Ohio companies from food processors to flag manufacturers were recognized.

“From American flags and fireworks to kites and homemade pies, the businesses we are highlighting this month supply Ohioans with everything they need to celebrate an all-American holiday,” Secretary of State Jon Husted said in a statement.

Business for Phantom Fireworks is going “exceptionally well” right now, Zoldan said.

“We are having an unbelievable year,” he said.

Zoldan believes a stronger economy, a Saturday Fourth of July and a country that went through a long winter have all attributed to the company’s growth in sales.

Although getting rid of what is called the “liar’s law” form after this year will help business, Zoldan said the law is still vague.

“I think it is very positive, and I am hoping Ohioans will push for more clarification on the use of fireworks,” Zoldan said. “I believe it is a gradual movement to legalize fireworks in Ohio.”