So, another “Fourth of July “celebration” has come and gone. I appreciate the community atmosphere, the coming together that is far too infrequent in today’s fast-paced world – similar, it seems, to the Memorial Day event at the Eden Prairie Veterans Memorial.
I rarely miss a Memorial Day event, either the one here in Eden Prairie or at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. They are peaceful, respectful, dignified.
At risk of being labeled an old naysayer, and with no expectation that many minds will be changed, I will offer my view that the elaborate fireworks “displays” are inappropriate at best and offensive in fact.
There are several reasons for this.
There are those who say they negatively affect the environment – I suppose they do to some extent. Others would have said they terrorize pets – that seems clear, at least for one night and then throughout the neighborhoods for days on end.
My primary objection is that they symbolize violence and destruction. Overwhelming flashes of light and sound pierce the night. I have not been able to be part of that “celebration” since I returned from Vietnam in 1968.
While I appreciate the community’s efforts, I offer my view with no expectation that anything will change.
James A. Strom, Eden Prairie