" I'm not sure just where you tried to park but I do know it is made quite plain which areas are accessible for parking. I'm also not sure how you know the people (besides parking) who shouted at you were from Arthur? When you have 30-40,000 people come into a town of 2200, my guess is that the chances are these people were not from Arthur. I have lived here all my life and find it a little hard to believe that you were treated so rudely by us. When you have that large a crowd, most are going to have a good experience but there will always be a few that encounter problems. Human nature, unfortunately, takes over. My suggestion to you would be to park on a side street and walk down to the park/fairgrounds. Our large group (including kids) walks the 3-4 blocks from our house every year. Yes, I am defending the home I love and I hope you give Arthur another chance. "

" I guess the Arthur people don't know much about good manners. Maybe they should get out of their little town more often. "

" Ms Stroud, it is highly unlikely that people parked along side the road were from Arthur. Most of us are either in our own yards or walk to the fireworks. So I would venture a guess that any profanities/obscenities being directed your way where not coming from Arthurites. Furthermore, you don't indicate what time you were here. Every year, I watch the fireworks from my home. And every year, the show starts at 9:30, several people show up at 9:15 driving like maniacs up and down the village streets in a desperate attempt to find a parking space. Our "city" friends from Mattoon, Decatur and Champaign are simply amazed at the crowds. We had no idea it would be like this! I suppose you all expected us to be sitting around on our front porches with straw sticking out our mouth playing the banjo and drinking moonshine while you drove your automobile right up to the front of the line for the big show. After all, you got here 15 minutes early. Furthermore, I had 14 vehicles parked in my yard. No one "asked" if they could and they did not need to do that. It is my show of "hospitality" to the out of town crowd who come to enjoy the best fireworks in cnetral Illinois. These people were here more than an hour before the show by the way and I live four blocks from the fairgrounds. Didn't get a thank you from anyone but a couple of people decided to leave some pop cans and a plastic bag full of trash in the yard. Am I going to condemn everyone who comes here because of that? Nope, I just chalk it up to the fact that in a crowd of 30,000 or more you're bound to get a few(more than that sometimes) idiots. I'm sorry your experience in my hometown was such a poor one. Clearly with the number of tourists this community hosts each year we must treat people right somehow as many of them return again and again. So, don't cast aspersions at all of us. In fact, next year you are welcome to come back and park in my yard on Poplar Street. Just don't run over my flowers and please keep your trash off my lawn. And we'll all get along just fine. "

" My husband and I had a very different experience. We were surprised by the politeness there, especially when the fireworks were over and people were leaving for their cars. The fireworks were great, especially for a small town, and our experience was very positive. However, we arrived early and parked some distance away. Although I'm not sure it's reasonable to expect other people to move over and make room for you, especially after they've taken the time to arrive early and set up their own chairs, I am glad someone was kind enough to do so. Rather than giving up on seeing the fireworks again, it might be a good idea to either arrive early enough to get a good spot yourself (without expecting other people to make room for you) or else park some distance away and walk in. Then, the fireworks will be an enjoyable experience for everyone involved. "

" BECKIE..Can't apolgize for someone else's poor manners, just like I wouldn't want you to when I go to Wal-Mart in Matton and would judge you and all the citizens of Mattoon when some rude person pushes in line at the check out line. You get enuff people in a samll area like we have here on the night of fireworks and unfortunately this is going to happen, but why judge our town by a few idiots who were probably not from Arthur anyway.!!(?) It's very unfortunate that this happened to you, but why judge our community in this way??? Read the comment by VIC SAGE..see what I mean by someone being narrow minded and pre-judgemental?? This huge display of fireworks attracts so many onlookers it's impossible for Arthur to accomodate everybody to their personal satisfaction. Come back next year and come earlier like you are forced to do to get a decent place to view the display and hope you have a better experience. "

" I took my family to the Arthur fireworks for the first time this year. It was one of the best displays I have ever seen any where. We arrived early and parked near the downtown, then walked down Vine Street to the fairgrounds. We set up our chairs and waited for the fireworks. People were polite and rather quiet. After the display, the crowds dispersed. For such a large crowd it all went smoothly. With regards to Ms. Stroud's letter, I think it takes a lot of gall to ask others to move after they have arrived, found a reasonable parking place, and set up. Don't just cruise in at the last minute. Arrive earlier, allow a little time for parking, and you might just have a better time. "

" Our experience was pretty positive as well. We came in off of I-57, through Arcola, when we got to about the fairgrounds/pool entrance, we turned back into the residentual area, went down a couple of blocks, turned right onto a side street, & parked along there, with some other vehicles. We then carried our chairs & hoofed it a couple of blocks back & into the fairgrounds area. We went up all the way to the front lines, sat on the outside of the ball diamond fence, near the christian band's stage. We arrived somewhere between 7:30 & 8:00 pm. The only real issue we had were a few young men nearby who were guzzling their beer, & being a tad on the too silly side. Otherwise, we had quite an enjoyable evening & hope to do it again next year. When all was said & done we just took our time getting back to our vehicle, & hungout at our vehicle for even a bit longer, so we could let the traffic die down some, before starting on our trip back to Charleston. (Thank goodness for your husband, & for the newspaper, huh Mrs. Stroud? LOL [wink-wink]) Thanks again, Arthur Illinois! Everyone have a happy & safe 4th of July, & hope to see you all at the Coles Co. Airport tonight! "

" Perhaps you should try coming earlier in the day to get a parking spot. I live about a block from the park and it started filling up around 4:30 to 5:00. By the time I walked over to get my seat it was almost completely full. There are ample places to park in the area, but some people choose to park on the side roads, pull out there lawn chairs and watch them from there. If you were in the park you would have noticed that there are police and volunteers that aid in crowd control, and overall it is well planned. The majority of our citizens watch from there or their front porches and are well mannered people. I do not know where you parked at, or who the people were that were being vulgar, but you must remember we are a town with a population of around 2200. On the day of our fireworks display there are around 20,000 to 30,000 more people here just to watch the fireworks. When you have that many people in a small space there is no way the regular citizens can control what the visitors say or do. Also if you chose to park on a side road then it is outside of the city limits and they do not have any control over that area during the fireworks. You have made a judgement without really knowing the situation. We invite you to come back next year around 4:30 or 5:00, park at CHI and take the shuttle to the park, enjoy the bands and airshow, and really see what it is all about. "

" Your comments are WAY off to judge the people of Arthur the way you did. Obviously, you have never been in the town of Arthur nor talked with the endless number of volunteers who dedicate and give up this holiday to provide this show for you. The Arthur Rotary members and Mark Jones, Chairperson, gives countless hours of to make this an outstanding show. I am sorry you decided to only watch the show from the country roads because you missed the number of volunteers organizing the airshow, directing traffic, collecting donations from the show to send high school kids to college, and families enjoying a positive environment in the park area. It is a sure bet those individuals on the side of the road were NOT from Arthur. I encourage you to stop in and visit Arthur, not just on the day of the fireworks, but any day and you find a safe and inviting community who would welcome you with open arms. These days there are not many places you feel safe but Arthur is one of them. The Arthur Rotary Club, their families, Mark Jones and the countless volunteers should be thanked not condemmed!!! Thank you!!! As for the people who did make these comments to Becki - just stay home next year! "

" I feel somewhat the same as beckie. My family and i went to see the arthur show as we do every year. The show was wonderful, the organization lacking. I will get to that in a minute. When we arrived, (at 630 for you people who will pop off about showing up 15 min before the show) we were waiting in the line to park at the school yard. There were four cars ahead of us, the one directly ahead of us we followed there from mattoon. The lady at the gate was going to everyones window collecting fees and let the first three cars go in, the car in front of us for some reason got told they were full, i pulled up and asked if they were full and she didnt say yes or no, she said" where are you from?" I said mattoon, and she told me to go park at CHI and take the shuttle. Funny that as i turned around they were still picking who could park there cause they were still letting cars in and turning some away. Then when the skydivers were doing their thing(just about dark 830?) the band just kept playing. they were never announced or the natonal anthem played while the flag came down. I was very dissapointed by this years lack of organization. Yes i stood and yes i removed my hat, but i never heard the beautiful music that symbolizes what this day is about. They need to bring the announcer back as in years past.(and a sound system that doesnt cut in and out, or at least someone who knows how to work it) "

" Ms. Stroud- It is unfortunate that you had the experience you did at our fireworks. I wonder if you have taken into consideration that, first of all, it is not fair to make such accusations towards ALL of the residents of Arthur. The actions of a few (likely NOT from Arthur!) do not justify the entire town to be condemned! Secondly, you may have been turned away from the vet clinic in case there had been an emergency. I believe they are on call 24/7. Third, this is a FREE event, and to say that "we all" need a lesson in manners, is unjust. I think it is very generous what the good people in this town do to run such a "spectacular show". I urge you to re-think (and re-write!) your letter. We welcome everyone into our town. The slogan on our sign downtown states "You're only a stranger once". Notice how all of the previous posters have welcomed you back to Arthur? I think those are great examples of good etiquette! "

" for LOKI: I'm not quite sure I understand your comments about parking or why on earth they would have been picking and choosing who to let park in the 'schoolyard.' Why would it make any difference where you were from? I'm quite certain very few from Arthur were parking there as most people in Arthur either walk or watch from home. (an advantage to living in a small town). I'm also not sure what you meant about the flag "coming down?" I do agree, and posted on the other blog about the fireworks in Arthur, that there seemed to be a problem with the sound system this year. In the past we have always been able to hear music and announcements before the show and music during the show. We could not this year and we sat where we always do, near the flagpole. I hope to hear why that was the case but I'm certainly not going to complain to anyone because I know how hard many in the community work all year long to put this show on. "

" Common Sense says that the people parked along the roadways are not people that live in Arthur. How can you hold the whole town responsible for a few people's (out of town people at that) actions? "

" Beckie, I'm sorry to hear you had a miserable time trying to park in Arthur for the town's spectacular show. It's especially too bad your daughter to hear it. However, you fail to mention WHEN you tried to park. I would hope you didn't try to get a spot as late as 8:30 p.m.! EVERYONE in the area knows you have to get to Arthur and be parked by at LEAST 8:30 p.m.; even earlier is better. I never cease to be amazed at the people who start showing up at 8:30, 9, 9:30 and grumble because they can't find a good space. I'd suggest giving it another go next year, and planning to be there by 7:30 p.m. at the latest. And, shame on you for blaming the people of Arthur! How rude! "

" I'm sorry that your experience was negative - we got there late (around 8:30ish) and ended up parking in the country alongside the road. It certainly was crazy driving up there with so many people pulled over, we ended up watching from inside the car, but had considered putting our chairs behind our car.......at events such as this it is first come first choice, and I've learned as my child gets older that I worry much more than they do about each experience I am trying to get for them. My daughter likes fireworks no matter where she sits to see them. I hope next year you have a better time - I thought the Arthur fireworks were better than the ones at the Coles County Airport. "

" I am sorry to hear about your experience, but sadly, I am not surprised by everyones's behavior. I am from Mattoon/Charleston, and I agree that most of the people yelling at you were probably not from Arthur. They more than likely were from Mattoon where the Fourth of July is another excuse to drink another case of Pabst Blue Ribbon and complain about life. This is why Matton won't get FutureGen so find solice in the knowledge that what goes around comes around. "

" My family and friends attended the Arthur fireworks. It was obvious the people parked along the highway WERE NOT Arthur residents ( you surely saw all the residents WALKING ). I question your treatment at the Arthur Vet Clinic. But if you were asked to NOT park there, it's understandable. The staff is on call 24/7 and, since Arthur is the heart of Amish Country, many many times the vets are called out on holidays and weekends. We have done business with the Arthur Vet Clinic for several years and they are super people! We had a wonderful experience in Arthur - as always - the fireworks were awesome. The people were super. The traffic control was the best it could be considering the number of people in attendance. Hats off to everyone who worked so hard to make this Independence Celebration such a success. Thank you Arthur residents!! (I'd bet those people you're referring to were visitors just like you and I - - - so please don't blame Arthur.) "

" All of these previous post have voiced my opinion of you arriving late to the fireworks, so I will address your comparison of Arthur's show and organization to Mattoon/Charleston's. Arthur's firework display made Mattoon's look like fireflies in a jar! As for the organization, have you ever parked in that mess at the airport? Your wait to get out of the parking mess is longer than the firework show. The fireworks lasted only 25 minutes. Even the parking at the air show was a mess, to exit you had to wind your way through orange cones, trying to avoid the people who were walking from their cars, and the motorcycles, whose parking was near the food vendors and therefore, had to drive through the crowds to get out too. It was a miracle no one was ran over. Perhaps if they had ADULTS handling the parking it would be a little better. We parked along the back country roads last night. You talk about vulgarity! There were people throwing fireworks everywhere, open alcohol, and even public urination! Beckie might think some of Arthur's vulgar citizens came to Mattoon, but unfortunately, these were Coles County citizens. Look for them, you will see them in a few weeks at Bagelfest, and then at the Coles County Fair! "

" I can't imagine anyone going out of town to a fireworks display when Mattoon had such a magnificent display at the airport. I'm sorry for the people who had such a negative experience. I hope next year you try the Coles County Airport. "

" I get so tired of all the assumptions that those of us from Coles County are ill-mannered hicks. That simply isn't true. I am confident that some of the rude people may have been from Coles County, and several other counties in IL. Coles County does not corner the market on ignorance, and to continue stressing that fact is incorrect and ignorant. I'm sorry people were rude - I've met rude people all over the globe - and I've met wonderful people as well. "

" You hit the nail on the head H2O. I had forgotten about Coles County's best behaved at the Bagel Fest and county fair. "

" First, I want to thank everyone who supported my comments. Secondly, I want to apologize about the broad generalization made in my letter. Upon consideration and in reading your thoughtful comments, a sweeping generalization that everyone in Arthur is to be condemned and blamed for our poor experience WAS in poor taste. There is no proof that EVERYONE along the road where I parked was from Arthur...just like there is no proof that they were not. I have since spoken with Mr. Mark Jones as well as Ms. Lisa Hale, the proprietor of the Vet Clinic. Mr. Jones was very polite and understanding. He even offered VIP seating next year so our experience would indeed be free from any of the problems we had this year. He also explained that what I perceived as rudeness from the proprietor of the Vet Clinic--was merely her being firm. As some of you explained the extent of her operation, I can understand the necessity to try to keep the area clear. So, again, I hope they both can accept my sincerest apologies. Some of you mentioned the arrival time is key to a positive experience. I agree. We arrived nearly an hour early, but as we did not know where to go or where to park or had no idea of the extraordinary size of the group of spectators--we were completely taken aback. Also, as some of you parents can attest, it is very difficult to arrive somewhere where you do not know anyone with a very young child. I worried about many things, most important the effects of the heat on her. We dared not come any earlier than we did. In the future, and we WILL return, I will make arrangements to find a safe and well-planned spot to watch the show. Again, people of Arthur--I am deeply sorry for the broad condemnation I inflicted upon you. I hope you can accept my apology. I would have printed this in the newspaper, but I was informed when I submitted a second letter with an apology that there is a policy that states there must be at least three weeks between letters to the editor. If you find yourself in the Mattoon area, please look me up and I will treat you to a cup of coffee or a reasonably priced beverage of your choice. Sincerely, Becky Stroud "

" Don't get me started on Bagelfest, it started out as a fun way to spend a weekend, I went to that 1st one so many years ago, along with about 20 other people. Bagelfest became a great time, then, the City of Mattoon really got involved, now we have a beer tent and we pay to see the entertainment, which is mediocre at best, this year we're have some up and coming groups, all that means is the City has gotten cheap. And what's with the plastic fence that they tie to the fence around the ball diamond, it is put up for 1 reason, to keep people from seeing the show for free, the closer you get to it, the worse you can see. Wake up people, not everyone has the money to pay $15 apeice for a family of 4 to get in. The shows used to be free on Broadway, The City moved everything to the park to make money, it cost money to be a vendor, it cost money to hook up to electricity, they charge money for the beer tent where you pay upwards of $3 for a small cup of beer. Fights always seem to accompany a beer tent, a couple of years ago they decided to turn down the bands volume in the beer tent during the main show on friday nite, why didn't they turn it down during Christian music nite? Beaches Don't worry, there are hicks everywhere. Back on topic now, I am reasonably sure that the offending parties in the parking incident in Arthur were not from Arthur, I have been there many times and each time my arm gets worn out just from waving to all of the people who waved at me first in my car. A friendlier town doesn't exist. "

" ANYONE WHO SUPPORTS HER IS VERY IGNORANT. Okay? Arthur people have wonderful manners. For one. In cars we let other people go before us. If there are people walking then we let them cross the street. No one is rushing. Almost everyone says please and thank you. And we have smiling faces. So thanks but we have manners. "

" If you have a child, I understand. But how can adults still be so entertained by flashing lights and loud noises that they'll fight the heat and crowds to see them? "

" Kyle, because we think they're pretty! Plus, maybe they remind us of our childhood, which was a VERY long time ago. So, if you fry while you're waiting to see them, and if you have to creep along in the traffic to get home . . . it's all worth it in the end. "

" What is so interesting about all of the comments here is the lack of recognition about the foul language the majority of people use in public. I for one get sick of hearing the "f" word every 12 seconds, from people as young as kindergarteners. No exageration either. Parents today have no regard for how their kids speak or appear to others. Just the other day I was in Rural King and a full-grown man called his dad something so vulgar it can't be repeated here - and the dad thought it was funny! I think if people could learn to control their speech when they are upset, that would do worlds of good. From what I've read from this gal, it was the cursing that perhaps was the most upsetting to her. If people would stop being sewer mouths, maybe she wouldn't have gotten so upset. Maybe I'm way off base, but it's just a thought. "

" becki- thank you for your second letter. There are not too many people that would openly admit their wrong. I hope you do take Mark Jones up on the offer of those VIP tickets for next year because they are one of the best seats in the house. But for a better reason, you have been shown what kind of people live in Arthur. Mark did not have to offer you those tickets but he knew you didn't see the side of Arthur which is true its mission. "You are only a stranger once!" As far as the rudeness of Lisa Hale and the vet clinic - her and her staff are not rude - they, again, are one of the reasons as to why Arthur is just a great profitable community. And the last time I checked, it was her PRIVATE property so she can do with what she wants on it. You can not judge her there. Arthur - you should be proud. You put on a great family, safe, and friendly environment! Becki- you stated you couldn't send a second letter to the JC/TC but you could send one with your retraction to the Arthur Graphic and the community of Arthur. I don't have an email address but their phone number is 543.2151 and their fax is 543.2152. Again, Arthur went above and beyond the expectations but it just wasn't on June 30, 2007 - it's everday! "

" We have watched the Aurthur fireworks for years. We have learned that each year we need to get there early. We now make a night of it arriving at 5:30 or so, bringing some snackes, buying some more and after finding our favorite seats with a group of friends, we go for a walk around the site and see what eveyone else is doing. You may have had a bad aexperience but next year make it a great experience. We have never had rude people at the fireworks even if it was extremely hot. We know that at the end,30,000 all need to get out and to be patient. We are extremely proud to have the quality of show so close to home. In all fairness to the people along side the road that were ruse, they probably were from out of town and had came early as well to get a seat of any kind. Don't judge them harshly for their preparedness. "

" Football Mom: That you for pointing out the new venue of apology. I will send it to them. I am not above pointing out when I am wrong and owning up to it...i.e. the blanket bashing of Arthur people. It is a lesson I hope to pass on to my daughter. HmmHmm: You are right, that was a large part of why I was upset. Toddlers are like sponges. "

" I agree that toddlers are like sponges, but they will hear bad things at some point - I also tried to avoid it for my child, but it will happen. And I also realize that many of these "firsts" are a much bigger deal for us the parents than for the child, who really won't remember them. I'm sure it was a stressful, bad experience, but your daughter won't remember the pretty fireworks, or that mommy cried, or that people were mean - this will pass. I have to work very hard on my reactions to things as this seems to impact my child more than the external forces. "

" Beckie I was a bit overwhelmed myself but my daughter and I didn't leave home till 9pm and followed traffice into town and back south of town and off on a country road (traffice patrol was awesome). By the time we found a place the fireworks had started already and my daughter was ready to go home. We managed to find a good place and enjoy the show from the south side of the display. Traffic was a breeze when it came time to leave and people coming back from Arthur on 133 to Arcola were considerate enough to let side-road traffic out every other car. Some friends also went and got home 1 1/2 hours after we did due to traffic(they were right at the display site). I have learned that if we go next year we will find the same country road and park where other did also. Saved time and frustration of being stuck in traffic and dealing with others frustrations. "

" Beaches: True. I have heard from others that these things when they are young are bigger for us than them. She is my first and I so want to give her everything I hadn't had...be the parent mine weren't. I am sure my reactions affect her more. I know kids can't live in a bubble, but why do people have to behave that way in front of children?! LLShanks: I will likely park in the same place as well. Getting out was pretty rough and that is when Hannah (my daughter) began to REALLY get impatient. Can't remember when we got home...but I think we overslept church. ) : "

" Becky, I think you sound like a wonderful and caring mother. I also think it was very kind of you to apologize and hopefully everyone will put this to rest. "

" JoJo: I appreciate what you said. I try to be. That is why it is so frustrating when circumstances happen beyond your control. I hope it dies down too. What is even more frustrating is that my husband's name was brought into this. He is a mild-mannered and wonderful man and there is no reason he should have been mentioned. Anyway, thanks. "

" I once went to the show at the Showplace 8, as always, I went very early to pick my seat. Just before the show started, the usher ask me if I would move down front so a couple arriving late could have my seat and the 1 next to it. I politely told the usher that I got there early to pick the seat I wanted, that this couple didn't, was not my fault, find another seat. You want a good seat, show up early, don't show up late and ask others to move. "

" Medic57: There is a difference between my experience and yours. I had a baby in the car and could not get there 4 hours early and expose her to the heat. I got there one hour early which was the best I could do...next year she will be older and I can plan accordingly. People moving when asked is good manners. As always, they could decline..which was the route you chose. This has been commented on enough! It was nearly 2 weeks ago. SUBJECT CLOSED! "

" Okay people. Enough crybaby antics for now. Please get a life. Who CARES who said what to whom at a lousy fireworks show? This has gotten way out of hand. Ms. Stroud - life is full of people who are going to hurt your feelings. Build a bridge and get over it. Please. Would somebody please write a letter squawking about something IMPORTANT - like the price of gas? Or groceries? Something that really affects our daily lives? Fireworks and how people act at a stupid show IS NOT IMPORTANT. How old are we? Are we fifth graders? Waa! Waa! Waa! Poor me! "

" Good luck there, Mrs. Stroud. You can certainly see how long some of the political columns stay in the "most commented" section. You wrote it, now deal with it! Like someone once said - think first before engaging mouth, or in this case, typing a letter to the editor. ~ Pssst.... maybe Goldenrod can make it all magically disappear, in a cloud of smoke, for you. "

" Mrs. Stroud, after all these comments you still don't seem to understand. Good manners is not, as you say, moving when asked. Good manners is not asking people to move just because your timing was off. One thing you said in your letter stands out: "After the fireworks, the woman told me that my daughter seeing her first fireworks were what the day is all about. If only others realized that!" Sorry, but for most of us, that was NOT what the day was all about. Really, it's not all about you, or your baby. A lot of people you saw had children with them--for those people, the day was probably all about their kids--certainly not yours. Also, I've seen a lot of kids and grandkids. Believe me, your meltdown had more of an impact on your baby than other people's rudeness or profanity. For her sake, you might want to ease up on the diva attitude and drama. "

" Rotty: Who is Goldenrod? "

" Ask your significant other, Mrs. Stroud. ;) "

" You hit the nail on the head, Gail! Excellantly put! "

" Hey Rotty. I appreciate the importance of being thick skinned just as much as the next person. After all, I write stories nearly ever day and send them out into the public domain with my real name attached. Neverthless, advice like "You wrote it, now deal with it!" sounds pretty hollow when it is given by someone writing under a code name. I would also be reluctant to take advice from someone who sarcastically answers a simple question, "Who is Goldenrod?," from my wife with, "Ask your significant other, Mrs. Stroud." In your first posting, you wrote "Thank goodness for your husband, & for the newspaper, huh Mrs. Stroud? LOL [wink-wink]." The letter was written by my wife and I am proud of her for it. If you have any questions about my involvement in all this, why not give me a call? You can find my work number at the bottom of every story I write, with my name on it. "