The July 4th holiday in the city of Holland, Michigan has turned into 4+days and sounds like a war zone as does every holiday throughout the year. We have pets here that are scared to death, dying birds from stress, people with various issues that loud explosions exacerbate.

On the 4th, there were 2 little girls probably 8 and 10 years old cheerfully firing bottle rockets onto the rooftops of cars as well as the carport roof here. There was no one with them over the age of 18 to supervise. There were more kids back in our woods again, none were 18 years old and they were setting off large ordinance. There are no trespassing signs at every entry to our property, which are torn down and replaced too frequently to count. The police are busy and do not have enough time to deal with all of the complaints. The fire fighters are deluged with calls. They must all dread the week of the 4th as much as the city of Holland residents do.

It is very dry. Grass fires can lead to tragic house fires and are always a grave concern. Where I live, there are six buildings full of families and their pets who are in danger from the lack of common sense that permeates everything today. The exception to this is a professionally staged display such as the Kollen Park fireworks. A choice can be made whether to go or not to go to enjoy those fireworks. The way it is now, it is beyond upsetting to be stuck in your home trying to sooth your babies, pets, and veterans from the constant firing of large shells (ordinance).

The metallic particles in the smoke emitted by fireworks pose a health risk, particularly to people who suffer from asthma, new research shows. (Nov. 27, 2010).

The trash left behind on the streets and curbs is toxic and poses a risk to the watershed as it is washed away during rain.

PLEASE share the link with your friends, co-workers, and family. Lets make a change for peace and quiet.