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TPS band program looking for replacements after thieves steal fireworks

Edison band fundraiser stolen
Posted at 12:06 PM, Jun 29, 2021
and last updated 2021-07-01 16:45:50-04

TULSA, Okla. — Working a firework stand fundraiser during a shortage is hard, but so is fighting thieves.

Weeks after starting their annual fundraiser selling fireworks for their band program, someone broke into one of Edison's firework stands and took about $15,000 worth of the fireworks they were planning to sell.

"It’s really sad that now our kids will be able to do less because of somebody else’s greed," Jacob Shepherd, Edison Bands' booster club president said. “Frustrated doesn’t begin to explain it.”

READ MORE: TPS band programs raising money through firework stands

Shepherd said the thief pulled up behind the fireworks stands in a 2000s gold-shaded Chevy Silverado and piled fireworks into the bed of the truck around 5 a.m., Tuesday. A band supervisor safeguarding the fireworks out front tried to stop the thief but not before they got away with a bulk of the fireworks stock.

"Honestly, it's kind of tragic," Nathan Ramirez, an Edison sophomore band member said.

The band had plans to perform in a parade at Disneyland, this spring.

“Everybody believes that we can still do good even if a lot of our things have been stolen. You know, we can still make it through the year," Ramirez said. “I feel like everybody can hold on…you know hold on together."

All proceeds of sales at the firework stands were intended to go towards Memorial and Edison's band and other music programs at their respective schools.

Now, the band is looking for replacements for the fireworks in hopes of getting the stand back up and running.

Until replacements can be found, Edison's band is still accepting donations for their program.

Visit the Edison Bands' website to find out how to donate.


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