From the Chamber
For 56 years, one Central Kansas family has helped create the sights, sounds and memories that define Independence Day for thousands of families. That tradition was celebrated Thursday morning as the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce hosted a Chamber Coffee and ribbon cutting recognizing T & L Fireworks—not simply for another anniversary, but for more than five decades of investing in the people and traditions that make communities stronger.
Now in its fourth generation of family leadership, T & L Fireworks continues to demonstrate that long-term business success is built on relationships, trust and a commitment to serving others. What began as a family business has grown into a Central Kansas tradition, with four generations of the Barnes family working together to provide quality products, honest pricing and exceptional customer service.
During the Chamber Coffee, owners Tom and Linda Barnes reflected on the company's journey and shared how the next generation, including their daughters and granddaughters, is continuing the family legacy. The business also highlighted one of the their most significant accomplishments; the development of its own Skyshocker fireworks brand. Along with their normal inventory, they are now offering up to 5 different fireworks for families to enjoy. What began as listening to customers has evolved into a homegrown brand that reflects the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit found right here in Central Kansas.
That spirit of continual improvement while remaining rooted in family values mirrors the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce's Elevate GBK: Beyond Today strategic plan, which prioritizes business retention, entrepreneurship and building a thriving regional economy. Long-standing businesses like T & L Fireworks demonstrate how locally owned companies strengthen communities by creating jobs, supporting local organizations and preserving traditions that connect generations.
Throughout the morning, conversation centered less on fireworks themselves and more on the memories they help create. Families return year after year, some traveling from several states away, to continue traditions that span generations. Business leaders also shared stories of churches and community organizations that have used seasonal employment and fundraising opportunities associated with fireworks sales to support local projects, further illustrating the ripple effect a successful small business can have throughout a community.
Julie Mazouch, Member Success Manager for the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, thanked the Barnes family for their decades of commitment to Great Bend and Central Kansas.
"Businesses like T & L Fireworks become part of a community's story," Mazouch said. "For more than half a century, they've helped families celebrate together while demonstrating what it means to build a business centered on integrity, service and community."
The Chamber congratulates T & L Fireworks on 56 years of success and wishes the Barnes family continued prosperity as they carry this Central Kansas tradition into its fourth generation and beyond.
For more information about T & L Fireworks, visit tandlfireworks.com or follow T & L Fireworks on Facebook and Instagram.