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Government isn't enforcing current fireworks rules

It was another Fourth of July, and I am sure our young people have learned some very important lessons.

They have learned that the government and their parents think it is okay to lie and commit fraud as long as it gets them what they want. This is learned when the parents sign a form saying the fireworks are for bird control. Although it's technically illegal, the government must think it's okay because there are dozens of fireworks stands around. They may wonder that other irresponsible behavior and illegal acts are okay also.

Then they learn not to have any regard for others in the neighborhood as they are allowed to detonate the fireworks at all hours of the night for two months around the Fourth of July and another two months around New Years Eve. Don't say it's patriotic. Patriotism would be for July 3 and July 4 only. They do it for fun. Their fun should not come at the expense of others.

They then learn a third lesson. Litter is no big deal. When I see the litter on my street and in our public parks, when I have to get on my roof to clean off rocket debris, when I can't sleep at night, when my pet cowers and won't go out, it is a big deal to me. I don't believe I have ever heard that fireworks are exempt from the antilitter ordinances. Why isn't it enforced? Again government just turns it's back and says it's okay.

The situation is getting out of hand and getting worse as time goes on. The Gulf View Square Mall correctly canceled its annual fireworks display due to irresponsible people using personal fireworks. It was concerned about its liability for accidents. I have personally seen teens throwing firecrackers in the parking lots of our local grocery store and bowling alley.

Our government must to do something to curb these irresponsible and illegal activities. The best solution would be to ban the sale of all fireworks. Taxing all fireworks sales at a very high rate might lessen the amount of fireworks while offsetting the cost of cleanup at our public parks following these holidays. I ask that the government do something besides sell out to the special interest lobby and turning their backs on an issue that needs attention.

When doctor gives orders, everyone should listen

Re: Outside force led cuts to needy, July 1 guest column.

After reading Marc Yacht's column concerning the regrettable decision not to fund Pasco schools' early learning and prekindergarten program, I am reminded how fortunate Pasco's citizens are to have Dr. Yacht working for them.

Whether he is writing to protect a program for our needy youth or to raise our consciousness concerning the health care crisis, Dr. Yacht always presents a thoughtful, humane and courageous perspective. His is a rare voice of true concern that details not just the problems but also workable solutions. We should listen to him. We should follow the doctor's advice.

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[Last modified July 6, 2005, 00:50:11]