Harris County keeps fireworks legal

A sincere "thank you" goes out to Harris County Commissioners Court:

Citing moderate drought conditions that are expected to become severe by July 4, Harris County Commissioners approved rules today prohibiting burning of garbage, limbs and leaves -- but not banning cookouts -- for 90 days or until dry conditions ease. Harris County residents, however, can still enjoy fireworks. Under state law, the deadline to impose fireworks bans was June 15 to give sufficient notice to firework suppliers and the public.

Excellent. Fireworks are just plain fun. There's no better way to celebrate the birth of our nation than by blowing up Chinese stuff. Unfortunately, for those of us within Houston's city limits, fireworks are illegal:

All fireworks are banned in Houston. It is illegal to discharge fireworks or to have fireworks in your possession.

Keep 'em inside, kids. Also unfortunately, Houston's Bravest can't spell worth a lick:

There are inspectors and investigators from the Fire Marshal's office who patrol the City 10 days before (starting June 24) the Forth of July

Yikes. Now let's hear from someone who basically has the coolest job in the world:

''There are still a lot of fireworks that go in the air and are still legal to use," said Russ Rhea, spokesman for the Texas Pyrotechnic Association, the state's largest fireworks association, representing 500 retail outlets.

There's a Texas Pyrotechnic Association? Where do I sign up?