Poems and Thoughts    by Frank Maurer

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An Unintended Holiday Consequence. Tariffs are slowly (?) seeping into our society and economy. China, the recipient of many tariffs, has this year pulled a 'fast one', Or better, we have pulled the 'fast one' on ourselves! For the 2026 US 250th anniversary, when fireworks are a paramount item, Tariffs now at 30% and possibly may suddenly rise to as much as 140%, Are already placing a real damper on both 'back yard' And professionally performed ceremonies around the nation. Beyond that, the commercial purchasers of fireworks Have no idea as to what to do for next year, Because our fireworks, almost 95% of which are Chinese manufactured, Must be ordered one year ahead of time. A possible balanced conclusion could be That our ceremonies might be dimmer, But with climate change,the danger of fires may burn less bright. Frank Maurer 29 June 2025 1150 Hours.