The Eagles are Silent this morning

I grew up going to big fireworks shows and loved it. Fireworks symbolized the 4th of July; the celebration of independence and freedom. I loved the loud booms and the beautiful showers of color and sparkles.

Living in Suquamish on the water we can see the fireworks from Seattle and along the beaches of Suquamish, Bainbridge Island and Indianola. When we first moved here we joined the fun and allowed fireworks on our beach to add to the celebration. Over time concern for fires and safety put an end to our personal show but we enjoyed those of others.

In the last few years the private shows along the Indianola waterfront have grown into a two night extravaganza rivaling those put on by some communities. The combined efforts of those along the small beach are beautiful and our view is spectacular. The best part is that once the show is over we are already home and don't need to fight the traffic.

My problem however is that the spectacle has grown beyond the casual family shows. Some serious money has changed the amateur feel of previous shows. The noise has grown louder and longer and the impact on animals in the area is traumatic. I can see the direct impact on our animals; especially Abby who quivers and seeks a corner to hide.

What happens to the eagles whose nests are at fireworks height? This is about the time that many young eagles fledge which means many are still in the nest and we have several nests in the immediate area. How do they handle the noise and flashes? I wonder about the other birds, the deer, fox and other animal inhabitants of the area that must feel there is no safe direction to go with fireworks everywhere.

The Suquamish Tribe, with many of their members earning a substantial portion of their income from firework sales, decided to eliminate fireworks on tribal property this year including the "slab" which had long been an open free for all on the 4th.

I have now moved to the other side, in favor of only controlled, professional fireworks.

Most of our local incorporated communities have eliminated private fireworks or limited them to the "safer" variety. It is time for Kitsap County to prohibit all, or all but the "safer" fireworks. The private shows have grown far beyond little family celebrations and the fires, noise and injuries don't outweigh the spectacle.

The eagles are silent this morning . . .