West End bracing for fireworks crowds post-riot
Posted Jun 24, 2011 12:45 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – What’s next for the so-called anarchists and crooks blamed for starting last week’s riot in downtown Vancouver? Businesses in the West End are concerned about the upcoming Celebration of Light fireworks.
Rowdiness can be an issue on fireworks nights. Many of the problems are alcohol-related and liquor pour-outs are frequent.
Lyn Hellyar with the West End Business Improvement Association is confident police can keep a lid on any trouble this year, “[It’s] usually is a very peaceful family event. Businesses are aware that we are going to have a lot of people and they really aren’t concerned. Policing has always been fantastic.”
She says BIA members haven’t expressed any specific riot-related concerns since last week.
Jade McNeill is the manager at The Quick Nickel, a clothing shop on Davie near Denman.
McNeill says, “After game seven, there are so many more cops down here lately, especially at night time, especially on the weekends, Friday and Saturday. I’m assuming for the fireworks they will probably do the same”.
The annual fireworks show starts on July 30th.
