Opinion

Fourth noise was tough on many

Posted July 14, 2013 4:40 am

I wish to respond to Amy Gilbertson’s July 6 letter respecting veterans and fireworks. I would like to add that in addition to veterans with PTSD, there are those of us living with autism spectrum disorders and animals who are terrified of the military grade fireworks.

This was one of the worst Independence Days in a decade in terms of persistent use of military grade fireworks by neighbors. My aunt’s Great Pyrenees trembled and hid in the closet all day. His Thundershirt did not help. There are veterans with autistic children who are trying to be strong for their families as well as for themselves. None of us need the added burden of listening to a battlefield on what is supposed to be a day of sweet freedom.

There are many other fireworks to be enjoyed, such as roman candles and bottle-rockets (any risk is up to the user). Freedom is defined as enjoying oneself within the confines of the law. If we can compromise and respect one another, this should not be complicated. Ms. Gilbertson pointed this out in her letter as well. I would also advise earplugs and earmuffs (earplugstore.com). Keep white noise on during peak times for noise such as dusk.

Allison M. Kramer

Carpentersville

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