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It's not all about the fireworks

Call me un-American, but I don't like fireworks. Oh, I'm as red-white-and-blue as anyone else, I just think fireworks are for July 4. Period.

This year, pyrotechnics in the city of Marion are allowed from June 27 through Friday — July 4. In the county, the time is extended to Sunday — July 6 — two full days after the holiday. That's eight full days (in Marion) and 10 days (in the county) of booms, whistles, crashes, and bangs. And frightened pets. And cranky neighbors.

Was this period of time decided upon because people are just so gosh-darn patriotic they need to celebrate America's birthday for eight, nine, or 10 whole days? Or was it decided upon because the powers-that-be were seeing the dollar signs of added revenue?

I guess the reason doesn't matter. What does matter, at least to me, is that those who insist on blowing things up, do so within the specified times. I don't think 7:15 a.m. is within the parameters of the ordinance and neither is 1, 2, or 3 a.m.

It must be difficult for law enforcement to monitor every after-hours explosion. It would make their jobs much simpler if people could just abide by the rules.

While we're on the subject of rules, what about the stipulation in the ordinance that prohibits lighting fireworks within 50 feet of a fireworks stand?

Imagine my surprise when I saw that occur one recent evening. Or, imagine the surprise of those in the fireworks tent had a wayward firecracker ended up in the tent. Now that surely would have been visible enough — and caused enough noise — for law enforcement to find!

I love the 4th of July as much as anyone, but it isn't all about fireworks, just as Christmas isn't all about presents.

For those who enjoy the sights and sounds of fireworks, have your fun, but do it safely and follow the rules.

For those who make the rules and approve the ordinances, think about limiting the days fireworks can be discharged in the future.

And for others who don't like all the noise, maybe this weekend is a good time to close up the house, turn on the air conditioner, and wait for Monday. Or, maybe it's a good time to get out of town for a few days.

— DONNA BERNHARDT

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