Having recently moved to Massachusetts from Pennsylvania, I have been marveling over how forward-thinking Massachusetts is relative to the rest of our 49 states. But wait … I marveled too soon.

On the evening of May 24, I was rudely shaken by  what sounded as if the war in Ukraine had come to our own backyards. But of course I remember driving around the circle at Look Park, paying attention to the traffic, but vaguely noticing the sign for fireworks. That was it! I am shocked!

How can the powers that be in Northampton justify fireworks in a world where devastating climate change is occurring at a rate that is exceeding predictions? And, wasn't it about two short weeks ago that we were advised to stay indoors due to the unhealthy air that had come our way from Canada's wildfires? But wait, I guess air pollution in the name of fun is good for the lungs! I anxiously await an answer.

Barbara Sheinmel

Leeds

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