Today's Opinions

Where did the summer go?

It seems like only yesterday that those annoying flashing yellow lights at either end of town on Noble Avenue, commonly called school zones, were doused for vacation time. Now, starting Monday, Aug. 18, they're back.

It's time for all the young people to go back to school. With classes resuming, people will emphasize to you that it's time for drivers to be extra cautious, to be careful of the children.

About this time every year, people become aware of just what the Legislature accomplished at its spring session.

Many new laws take effect on July 1, and this year is no exception.

One of the major changes, or at least it seems that way, regards the FCAT, the school assessment test given to various students during the year.

One thing that has been popular with schools, particularly elementary schools, has been a series of "pep rallies" to get students ready for the test.

No more.

Elsewhere in today's paper you'll find a cautionary note from the city, urging parents to protect their children at the parade. Children often run out into the street to get their hands on thrown candy.

I have a better idea - don't throw candy at all.

During recent parades, it was noted that some organizations have people walk alongside the floats and give away the candy rather than throw it. That's the way it should be done, but only by adults, for reasons you will read below.