I was dismayed when it was announced this year that Chapel Hill would reinstate its tradition of fireworks at Kenan Stadium on July 4.
It has been documented for years that animals, large and small, wild and tame, are traumatized, sometimes fatally, by the violent and thunderous bursts of noise that accompany a fireworks display. This year, on July 5, a representative from the local animal shelter announced on WCHL for all animal owners whose pets were missing to notify them for assistance. That same day, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) sent out suggestions for finding lost pets to its entire membership. And these are the lucky animals – the ones who have (or HAD?) owners who cared for them. There is NO voice for all the creatures of the wild that are a part of our community.
A friend of mine who had been watching a nest of purple finches outside her bedroom window called me on the morning of July 4 to say that the babies had left their nest before daylight that morning. We enjoyed the fact that they had chosen Independence Day for their debut to the world, until we remembered the fate that awaited them that evening. Their nest was well within earshot of the Kenan Stadium activities.
Our town prides itself on its enlightenment. This past year, it became the first city in the nation to propose a ban on using cell phones while driving. It recently voted overwhelmingly in opposition to Amendment One. It has gone on record as opposing the death penalty.
Now it is time for Chapel Hill to lead the nation in banning fireworks at future Independence Day activities. Then, and only then, will we be truly enlightened.
Carla Shuford
Chapel Hill