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After reading Mitch Linne’s negative comments about his Fourth of July experience at Great Northern Veterans Peace Park I felt compelled to offer my own thoughts.

My 10- and 11-year-old children and I have been enjoying the Peace Park since we first became aware of its existence in 2012, when we were fortunate to be a part of a free concert celebration that was a truly wonderful event. In the years since, the grounds have been beautifully upgraded, the pond enlarged, grass just recently seeded. We sled at the park regularly in the winter as do so many other local and visiting families. We were at the Fourth of July celebration and yes, I took part in the fun that Mr. Linne described as “noisy, dangerous.”

Indeed, I ignited my own “minuscule display.” And my children and I loved it, as did many other families. I did not see or hear of injuries or harm. I was not offended by anyone’s “new-wave” music. Camaraderie was high, healthy good old American fun was had by all.

I have lived in Montana 22 years, all of my adult life. Public access in Montana and Whitefish to lakes, rivers, parks and forest is awesome, and for blue-collar families like my own, a large part of our recreation is conducted on these public lands. The Peace Park represents everything good about our state and local community. Huge thank you to all that worked so hard planning, obtaining and developing the park. You know who you are. The Park is off Ramsey behind the Veteran’s cemetery. Look forward to seeing you there!

— Dylan Safir, Whitefish