My husband and I purchased a second home in Fountain Hills about seven years ago.

We have been coming here for short periods at a time until recently as we retired in July and are spending our first full winter in Fountain Hills as “snow birds.”

After reading some of the negative comments regarding the recent Chinese Lantern and Folk Festival, I felt compelled to write. We love Arizona and our time here but what makes our time so special in our winter home is the sense of community in Fountain Hills.

We are in awe at the number of events this little town hosts! Often we have a hard time deciding which of the many activities we want to take part in, from activities and presentations at the Community Center, to art shows, Farmer’s Markets and, of course, the myriad of events going on at the Fountain.

Yes, it is wonderful to be able to walk around the Fountain, but it is even more wonderful to be able to take in an event such as the Chinese Lantern and Folk Festival. If it means having to change my walking route ever so slightly for a short time so that we can all learn about another culture, so be it!

And perhaps this specific festival wasn’t something you were interested in seeing? Well, I saw many school buses parked at the Fountain to allow schools to come and take part, and I think this alone is reason enough to be a bit inconvenienced.

When we understand other cultures, we gain tolerance and that benefits society as a whole. Thank you to the organizers for this, and for all events that they bring to this lovely little town! They benefit everyone!