PETA Offers City $1K To Drop Fireworks

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- An animal rights group is offering to help save an annual Fourth of July celebration in central Ohio - but there's a catch.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals says it will give Pickerington $1,000, but only if the city agrees to switch from fireworks to a laser light show. The group says a laser show is easier on dogs, cats and other animals that are frightened by booming fireworks.

Pickerington's mayor and other officials indicate they're seriously considering the offer.

The city has said it may have to scrap its annual Independence Day parade and fireworks to save $28,000. Officials need to slash $1.4 million from Pickerington's 2009 budget after voters rejected a plan that would have doubled the local income tax.

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