Dear Knoxville Smokies and Boyd Sports,

We, the undersigned, are writing to express our concerns regarding the nightly fireworks displays at Covenant Health Park. While we understand the intention to enhance the fan experience, these displays have unintended consequences that negatively impact our community, including stress to pets, disruption to young children’s sleep, and potential wildfire risks.

**Impact on Pets:** Studies show that up to 50% of dogs experience fear and anxiety due to fireworks. Cats, too, are significantly affected, with research suggesting that anywhere from 23% to 50% of cats experience fear and anxiety during fireworks. Unlike dogs, cats often hide their distress, making it harder to recognize. Common signs of anxiety in cats include crouching, hiding, over-grooming, or attempting to flee. This stress not only impacts the well-being of pets but also places a burden on their owners, who must manage the aftermath of these events.

**Disruption to Children:** Fireworks displays often occur late in the evening, disrupting the sleep of young children. Sleep is crucial for their development and well-being, and repeated disturbances can lead to irritability, difficulty concentrating, and other health concerns.

**Wildfire Risks:** Fireworks are a known cause of wildfires, with an estimated 31,302 fires started by fireworks in 2022 alone. These fires resulted in six civilian deaths, 44 injuries, and over $109 million in property damage. Given the proximity of Covenant Health Park to wooded areas, the risk of a wildfire is a serious concern that cannot be overlooked.

**Proposed Alternatives:** 
1. **Laser Light Shows:** Replace fireworks with laser light displays, which offer a visually stunning experience without the noise or environmental risks.
2. **Silent Fireworks:** Consider using silent fireworks, which produce less noise while still providing a captivating visual spectacle.
3. **Drone Light Shows:** Introduce drone displays as a modern and eco-friendly alternative. These coordinated aerial performances can be customized with creative designs, animations, and team logos, providing a visually spectacular experience without the loud noises.
4. **Enhanced Stadium Entertainment:** Invest in other forms of entertainment, such as live music performances or interactive fan activities, to create memorable experiences for attendees.

We believe these alternatives can maintain the excitement of game nights while addressing the concerns of the community. By taking these steps, the Knoxville Smokies and Boyd Sports can demonstrate their commitment to being responsible and considerate neighbors.

Thank you for considering our petition. We hope to see positive changes that benefit both the team and the community.