There's a petition going around in Cedar Rapids trying to ban all fireworks, even city-sponsored ones, within city limits. Would something like this fly in Rockford?

The petition lists 6 reasons for the potential ban. They are as follows:

  1. Fireworks being used with few restrictions for such a large period of time creates a risk of traumatic episodes for many veterans of the armed forces, as well as others who suffer from PTSD.
  2. Fireworks being used in densely populated areas cause a great deal of stress, anxiety, and fear for many dogs, cats, and other pets, which can result in animals reacting with fear-based aggression or by running away.
  3. Fireworks being used in densely populated areas creates extremely loud noises which create an unwelcome and uncomfortable environment for babies, infants, and toddlers in that area.
  4. Fireworks being used in densely populated areas creates unnecessary and unwelcome levels of consistent noise pollution.
  5. Fireworks being used in densely populated areas can not only damage the property belonging to the person setting them off, but also creates a risk of damage to property surrounding the area where they are being set off.
  6. Fireworks contain toxic chemicals and are known to be pollutants to the air, ground, and water.

Now I personally would FULLY support this but not really for any of the above reasons. I guess I technically fall under #4.

I don't want any fireworks because I know that my alarm will be going off at 3:35 AM July 5th and would like some damn sleep. If that sounds like an old man shaking his fist at the clouds then thank you, that's what I was going for.

Move the fireworks to the weekend. Until then let's #BanTheFourth. There's no way that hashtag could be misinterpreted.

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