Outstation Rule about "pyrotechnic devices"

It was disappointing to learn at the June 12 general meeting that a member had approached Commodore Stettner to complain about "pyrotechnic devices" used at the Memorial Day service.

To be fair: Rule 11.03 does read, "The use or discharge of fireworks, firearms, or any similar explosive or flame producing device from the grounds, docks, or moored boats is prohibited."  Whoever the member was, they are reading the rule correctly and it would seem to apply to the cannon shot customarily used in the Memorial Day service at the outstation.

In my opinion, the board should amend this rule to read "....prohibited unless specifically approved by the Commodore."

It makes all the sense in the world that we should not allow people to be setting off 4th of July fireworks on the docks. It isn't smart to be firing skyrockets from the lawn of the outstation, with the risk that one might land on somebody's canvas bimini top. I can't imagine any responsible gun owner who would consider discharging a pistol or a long gun in the crowded environs of the outstation marina. There is a time and a place for all of those activities, and most likely the outstation isn't the place virtually all of the time.

The cannon shot for Memorial Day is entirely different. It's a single shot in a very controlled situation. There is no projectile, and no risk of fire.