Many thanks to the members of the Pyrotechnics Guild International (PGI) and their numerous local sponsors and supporters for four incredible nights of entertainment that were provided to area residents as part of the Guild's 2017 Kaleidoscope of Fire convention held at the Red River Valley Fairgrounds in West Fargo.

The first night began with an old-fashioned show created by a Texas PGI chapter to honor a long-time member who died in the past year. He liked color and sound, and the show that filled the sky with booming multi-colored shots wonderfully reflected his interests.

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After that for four nights Guild chapters from across the country and nationally-recognized fireworks firms used thousands of shells to create awe-inspiring displays wonderfully choreographed to carefully-selected music. I know I will never have the opportunity to see anything of this magnitude again unless another PGI convention comes to this area. Unfortunately, if the rumors circulating in the stands are correct, that could be a problem.

If the rumors are true, the Pyrotechnics Guild may not be able to return to the fairgrounds - where they have now held eight conventions - because some of the land around the site is going to be sold for development. If that is so, let's hope local folks will come together and find another location to host this spectacular event which thrills area residents and brings large numbers of people to the community both as convention attendees and show viewers.

Barbara Sipson

Moorhead Minn.