Author Archive
Fireworks are illegal in Massachusetts; driving while on the phone is not
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), consumer fireworks in 2011 caused 17,800 fires in the United States which “resulted in an estimated eight reported civilian deaths.” Two things stand out in this factoid: 1) Like guns, cars and kitchen knives, fireworks generally do not injure or kill people…
2013 Town of Sandwich Memorial Day Parade and Commemoration
I was pleased to be asked by the American Legion to speak at this year’s Memorial Day Parade and Commemoration. It was a perfect weather day and we had a great turn out. Fred Sozio, Korean War Veteran, was the parade marshal. He received a long and loud applause when…
Private sales of firearms in Massachusetts are closely regulated
The common perception about private sales of firearms in Massachusetts is that they skirt around the requirement to have a background check. Most people believe there is no control over these transactions, resulting in the often misunderstood “gun show loophole.” First of all, the lion’s share of sales at gun…
Drilling down to the true motivation
Let’s conjecture about two neighboring states, Vermont and Massachusetts, that have populations which consume a common product, maple syrup. Vermont is king of maple syrup in the United States, producing far more than its residents can eat (drink?). In fact, more than one million gallons are output annually, from single-owner…