Fireworks-free zone a smash on east beach

Those who watched the Biloxi fireworks show in the fireworks-free zone may have been taking part in something that looks to be the beginning of a new tradition.

“I was very happy with the way the fireworks-free zone went,” said Mayor Andrew “FoFo” Gilich, adding with a smile, “and my wife was happy with it as was my cousin Linda Hornsby, who had the idea.

“So, yes, I think it’s going to be the start of a new tradition, a fireworks-free zone on east beach.”

Gilich said Biloxi police officers and Harrison County Sheriff’s deputies helped spread the word among beachgoers in the area between the Biloxi Small Craft Harbor and Oak Street.

“It was a matter of customer service and customer friendliness,” the mayor said, “and you can’t say enough about the public. We essentially had no problems, and we had plenty of people who were able to enjoy the fireworks in a comfortable environment.”

Hornsby, the longtime tourism leader, had suggested the idea to the mayor last year, just weeks after he had taken office. The idea was for a venue where beachgoers would not have to worry about fellow beachgoers firing fireworks nearby and to help with beach cleanup.

Said Police Chief John Miller: “It went very well. We expected some problems, but there were only three people in the fireworks-free zone who said they hadn’t been notified. Once we told them it was no problem  So, yes, we were pleased with the cooperation from the public.”

 

News and notes

Week in review: To see the reports from the Biloxi Fire, Police and Community Development departments, along with an archive of weekly reports, click here.

First look at Blind Tiger: Developers are proposing a beachside restaurant, the Blind Tiger, on the Harrah’s property south of U.S. 90. For a look at the proposed restaurant, click here.

Farewell luncheon: Dozens gathered at City Hall to give thanks to David Nichols for serving the city and citizens of Biloxi as chief administrative officer and to give cheers for his new career with the Biloxi Public Schools.  See photos from today’s luncheon and several other happening in Biloxi on the City’s Facebook page by clicking here.

No splashing: The Splash Pad at Point Cadet Plaza is closed until Wednesday evening.  The Parks and Recreation Department is cleaning the facility.  For more information about the Splash Pad and the Point Cadet Plaza, call the department at 228-388-7170.