New Fireworks

People just got tired of traditional fireworks. The town council held a meeting and decided on an alternative. Barges would be sent out on the river as usual, but now they would be firing off stray cats and small pets people got tired of feeding. The suspense entailed discovering which survived the contact with the water and which drowned.
It would have been a huge success except for one disgruntled worker who drugged and dragged his hyper critical mother in law to the barge and shot her out of a high powered firing mechanism. She rose high and fell like a stone.
His trial is set for September.

Fireworks Controversy

Macy's has decided to have their July 4th fireworks on the East River again thia year, sending Hudson County into despair. When they use the Hudson River, thousands gather, entire families. The expression on the kids' faces is priceless. Vendors, music, shuffling for good position, balloons--a festive night.
But now there will be a few confused spectators and one pretzel vendor staring longingly at fireworks they can barely see or hear.
When we get them Brooklyn hates us and vice versa. Now that the Supreme Court has settled the gay marriage issue, it is time to debate the fireworks controversy.

Firework Fatigue

It's reached the point where I'm almost glad when it rains and fireworks are cancelled. Why does every cash strapped town feel it is obligatory to stage these displays? Then they jack up property taxes. There should be one giant Macy's extravaganza and if you can't get there, watch it on whatever screen is available.
Here's a fact: after the first five minutes kids get bored and want ice cream.
Every year I trudge down to Boulevard East amidst expectant families, like they're going to see something different. Crazies actually try using their car to get there, which leads to long, stagnant lines and lots of beeping. In this area there are many Hispanics who perhaps do not connect with Independence Day as others do. I wonder if any of us really think about what we're celebrating, besides a day off from work.
This year it falls on a Thursday, meaning fireworks start on Monday and extend through Sunday. The Meadowland Fair has their own shoot off, directly competing with Macy's. Too much splattering in the sky.
Fireworks are getting like face painting, which used to be charming and unusual. Now every street fair in every tiny hamlet has face painting. There are more kids walking around with colored faces than not. Removable tattoos are next. The forecast is rain today and tomorrow, leaving Thursday clear. Maybe God is sick of this too.