I went to my first ever drone show and it did not disappoint. It was incredible! 

The event took place at SUNY Potsdam drawing a large crowd of people of all ages. Not only is it spectacular to see so many lights fill so much of the sky, but it’s a chance for art and storytelling.

At the beginning, we saw all these lights drifting up and you aren’t quite sure what it’s forming. Suddenly Potsdam flashed across the sky. There was an audible gasp and then cheering. 

It was a unifying, celebratory moment! It’s hard to watch it and not smile. 

What if our town did these shows instead of fireworks?

I have sat with my lab retriever dog for hours before because neighbors decided to set off fireworks. She was shaking uncontrollably and my efforts to comfort her were limited. The shaking lasted hours. 

I’m sure other dog owners know this experience. I’ve had to take her somewhere else any time I’m aware there may be fireworks nearby to avoid putting her through that. 

Dogs aren’t the only ones impacted, though. Cats, deer, rabbits, foxes, raccoons, birds, and horses also freak out. I’m speaking of animals because that’s my personal experience, but I also know fireworks affect young children, people with PTSD such as veterans and survivors of gun violence, older adults, and people with hearing or other sensory conditions. 

Fireworks are a neat, traditional spectacle, but they severely disturb some animals and people and can produce immediate air pollution, leave waste and chemical residues, and create fire risks.

I hope that the Town of Potsdam and those in the surrounding areas will consider doing drone shows instead of firework shows. They are better for many reasons. 

Imagine the art that could be illustrated, the stories that could be told, the people that could participate that couldn’t otherwise, the animals and people that could be protected, and the ways in which it can avoid harm to the environment. 

I don’t know much about the challenges, but I hope we at least explore the possibility. You have my support!

Diamant Maya

Potsdam