This summer has produced a government overreach that surprised even me. In at least three states, Texas, Iowa and Georgia, local police have shut down lemonade stands set up by little kids. Claiming they need to have an expensive permit and health inspection, the local authorities extended their Grinch-like tentacles into our quiet neighborhoods.
From this:
To this:
For those of you who follow my blog, you know I’m moved to rhyme whenever another intrusive government action affects our daily lives. So here goes:
Now bid adieu to Cindy Lou, her lemonade’s all gone,
It’s wasn’t sold, the tale be told, but taken from the lawn.
A local cop just put a stop to Cindy Lou’s endeavor,
Her refreshment stand has now been banned, and may be closed forever.
It’s pretty cruel, this stupid rule, her need to get permission,
With this one act and lack of tact, they’ve ruined a child’s tradition.
A health inspection for disinfection, they also say she’ll need,
She’ll spend a lot to keep her spot, and satisfy their greed.
It’s easy to see you must agree, we’ve simply gone too far,
You’ll be perplexed at what comes next – a Lemonade Stand Czar.
Scoff if you will with laughter shrill, but on lemonade, I’d stock up,
Cause you’ll get none when the government’s done, and Cindy Lou’s in lockup.
The Cvillean 