Tracy and Steve McClure enjoyed some of the calm before the storm Wednesday.
The Ripon couple had one of the later shifts for the TNT Fireworks booth located in the parking lot of the Ripon Save Mart Shopping Center.
A portion of sales will benefit One Church.
“This is a big fundraiser,” said Tracy McClure.
Business is all but guaranteed to pick up in the days leading to the Fourth of July.
Noon Wednesday officially kicked off the fireworks season in Ripon.
But that’s only applicable to the safe and sane variety within city limits, which is from now and until midnight Tuesday, July 4, under city ordinance.
Those discharging TNT or Phantom as sold locally must be at least 18.
As for the illegal fireworks, police are looking to crack down on violators given the recent changes to the law.
The safe and sane fireworks booth are now open until 9 p.m., with some of the non-profits, sports programs and service organizations using this endeavor as their major fundraiser.
One Church at is hoping to use the proceeds to create a safe environment for local youngsters.
“We want the money (from fireworks sales) to go back to the community,” said Sam Leatherman.
He and his wife, Ashley, are youth pastors at the church located at 602 Ripona Ave.
This is the first year of selling fireworks for One Church. Leatherman had an opportunity to do this major fundraising project thanks to his TNT connection in Modesto.
On this early summer evening, youngsters from the community, regardless of their religious affiliation, were engaged in various outside activities, from throwing around the football and playing games.
One Church would use proceeds from fireworks sales to further boost the program.
“We have other big plans such as assemblies at Ripon High on anti-bullying, and bringing in outside speakers,” Leatherman said.
Back at the fireworks booth, the McClures were thrilled about some of the TNT products.
Included are The Big Deluxe package ($199.99), The Perfect Show ($99.99), The 49er ($49.99), and The Big Value ($29.99).

To contact reporter Vince Rembulat, e-mail www.vrembulat@mantecabulletin.com.