A network radio talk show guy a few years ago called Independence Day the "holiday of bad choices." Invariably, there are fireworks accidents, auto crashes, swimming accidents, grill fires and camp fires that grow out of control, sunburns, and problems caused by too much drinking... The list is endless.
There is a growing call to roll back the legalization of fireworks. It cuts across party lines. Mayors hate the complaints. It ties up police departments. It's more work for fire departments. Pet owners hate it. Having said all that, I'd be shocked if it happened. Follow the money.
On top of that, if there is a holiday where the true meaning of the day gets lost in all the hoopla, this is it.
It's been a bad year and we can all use a break, a chance to be good to ourselves and our families.
Please, do it safely, sanely, and quietly.
