Fireworks usersleft unpatriotic litter everywhere

To the editor:

I was very disheartened to see the amount of litter left by residents shooting off fireworks on the Fourth of July. The remnants of used fireworks could be seen everywhere on sidewalks and streets in Cape Girardeau. I believe it is disrespectful and careless to litter, particularly after a patriotic celebration. Like any privilege, shooting fireworks also carries a responsibility. Part of that responsibility is to clean up after the party. While it is patriotic to shoot off fireworks, it is not patriotic to litter the streets.

The celebration of another American pastime also resulted in a common area being littered and strewn with trash. Throughout the holiday weekend, baseball games were played at Capaha Park. The area under the bleachers was filled with trash, bottles, cans and fireworks remnants. Trashing an area shows only disrespect for the community and country, not pride and appreciation.

I hope Cape Girardeau residents will demonstrate respect for our neighbors and community by keeping the community clean every day -- and certainly on the Fourth of July next year.

MARSHA TOLL

Chair

Keep Cape Beautiful Council

Cape Girardeau Chamber

of Commerce

Cape Girardeau