Baltimore Orioles fans haven’t had much to cheer about since, oh, 1996 or so, but if city councilman James Kraft gets his way the beginning of the games may feature a little extra spirit. That’s because he’s trying to repeal a city ordinance passed in 1916 wherein “The Star Spangled Banner” cannot be sung with any embellishments or altering. Anyone who violates this ordinance could face a $100 fine. It seems that Orioles fans want to have the option of being able to add their lusty “O” yell during the anthem. Considering that the anthem is probably the only moment for Orioles fans to cheer during the entire game, I am fully in favor of this measure.
Among the other outdated ordinances that Kraft is trying to eradicate is a measure passed in 1946 which makes it illegal to sell condoms to anyone under 16.
While I’m glad to see these idiotic ordinances removed from city law, I have to wonder if these are the most important issues in Baltimore these days. Based on my rabid viewing of The Wire, I would say no. According to that show there is a drug problem in Baltimore. Maybe the city council can pay attention to that sometime soon. I mean, I get that these issues are much MUCH more pressing but, you know, if there’s time…
The Slanch Report 
Recent Comments