ROWENA, S.D. (KELO) — The fireworks business isn’t new to Barry and Gena Bakken. They’ve sold fireworks every year since 2005.
“It’s pretty slow the first few days and then it picks up. It gets really crazy. Some days it’s been a challenge because we’ve been doing it since our kids were really tiny. But it’s been a lot of fun and the kids have enjoyed it,” Gena Bakken said.
This year, they’re giving 20% of all proceeds to the Sioux Empire Pink Ladies, a non-profit that offers financial support for people battling cancer. The cause hits home for the Bakkens. Two years ago, they lost Gena’s dad to cancer.
“They supported him during that time. And other people that we know have cancer and family members even, and they’ve helped support them. So, it’s time we give back,” Barry Bakken said.
“They have helped our family a lot and we want to make sure to give back and help other families,” Gena Bakken said.
From smoke balls and sparklers to artillery shells, there’s something for everyone here. The Bakkens started selling fireworks out of trailer houses before moving to their current location just outside Rowena.
“These gentlemen at PL Enterprises said we could use this space in their shop for this season to do this. We’ve had this location since 2014 or 2015,” Barry Bakken said.
They hope to stay in the fireworks business for years to come as they help light up the sky with support this Fourth of July.
You can find Barry and Gena just outside of Rowena on Highway 42. The stand is open 8 am to 10 pm every day until July 5th.
