Freedom can flourish with respect

To the editor:

There is a lot of noise about fireworks and firecrackers this year. Let freedom ring! But let's be reasonable.

Loud noises are painful to the sensitive ears of dogs. Are you a self-professed dog lover? Firecrackers may waken babies, small children and ill people who need their rest. Parents may need respite while their children nap or go to bed early. Sudden loud blasts cause stress among many of our veterans. Is this the way to honor them? It is a family value to wake the shift worker?

Our city's Fourth of July fireworks are fine, thoughtless use of fireworks and firecrackers night and day throughout the summer is not.

I would rather be the life of the party than the wet blanket smothering the celebration of our nation's independence, but freedom can flourish while respecting the needs of our fellow citizens.

Bruce R. Bachmann

Cedar Rapids