Are we headed toward sparklers only?

Sometimes, it's the simple pleasures in life that are important. So, can someone please tell me why Homeland Security banned 12-inch shells at the fireworks?

Please tell me that its edict was based upon a rational reason designed to protect us from some identifiable threat of harm. I like big noise and bright lights on the Fourth of July. That is what "rockets red glare" and "bombs bursting in air" means to me.

Please assure me that this edict isn't a metaphor for yet more government disruption to our lives that makes little or no sense. Please tell me that we aren't going to be restricted to just sparklers in the years to come.

Robert Meachum

Douglas