Pantagraph.com | News | Burning leaves: Traditional rite of fall or health hazard?

Note: All views and opinions expressed in reader comments are solely those of the individual submitting the comment, and not those of the Pantagraph or its staff.

little people wrote on Dec 12, 2007 2:34 PM:

" You all must be a bunch of fun to be around if you start complaining about people misssspullin wurds en stuff. Get a grip, get a life and get over yoursulfs..... Ya'll are probably self described christians too, they usually are the ones to cast the first stone....LOL....good thing you got religion, it may be all ya end up with. "

T. wrote on Dec 11, 2007 6:02 PM:

" Ummmm, Aaron, you should have said "makes you look stupid if you don't spell something RIGHT", not "spell something WRITE" as you wrote. HAHAHAHAHAHA you got caught in your own "logic". You made my day. "

Aaron wrote on Dec 11, 2007 4:40 PM:

" How is the smell of burning leaves good? Personally, I don't see any good that comes from burning leaves. Some people like the smell of cigarettes, but it is harmful to others. Unless you live in the country away from other people, it should be banned since it can bother others. It is all about thinking about others instead of yourself. People who write in here should check their spelling, makes you look stupid if you don't spell something write. "

Fall Aromatherapy wrote on Dec 10, 2007 12:56 PM:

" Two things (out of a list of a zillion) I love about fall are the smell of burning leaves, and the smell of pumpkin pie baking... and then eating the pie, of course. "

tired and depressed wrote on Dec 9, 2007 9:30 PM:

" I read these comments from time to time and get tired and depressed by the lack of civility displayed. One group wants more regulation and the other wants less. A consequence of living in proximity to others in a civilization is that one must find ways to come to agreement of what level of regulation is adequate. Likely the denser the population, the more regulation will be necessary. And if you disagree with your neighbor on a matter of regulation, the answer is not to insult him or her. It is to try to persuade. And if that fails, one should try to persuade a majority via our fine American tradition of electing leaders (or running ourselves) to represent the majority will. "

stewey wrote on Dec 8, 2007 10:58 PM:

" yiu people whine and complain about burning leaves,but you don't mind driving your cars and suvs.as far as global warming and NYC being under water,so what,it's only nyc. :) "

Personally wrote on Dec 7, 2007 3:05 PM:

" I love the smell of burning leaves but...I have also had a lung condition all of my life and can't take the smoke kind of the same way I can't take people smoking in my face in restaurants and other public places. If you people had any idea of what it feels like to not be able to breath normally I think then you would understand. I wouldn't wish my condition on my worst enemy because it's no fun. "

please wrote on Dec 6, 2007 2:47 PM:

" don't be hateful. If you don't have breathing problems, then I feel wonderful for you, but those of us that do, do not deserve the hateful comments. Please be considerate. "

I think it was the eagles that said wrote on Dec 6, 2007 2:12 PM:

" I agree with why!!!!!!! I am not for sure why everyone has to have things their way or no way... like my three yr old throwing a tantrum!!! we could have had a compromise on this, I totally hate the word BAN now, because it seems we can't go a freaking week w/out banning SOMETHING!!!!! why does anyone need control over things that ppl do in their lives, not killing anyone , not hurting anyone, being doing it for ever and now wow no longer allowed, why? because its banned!! this is getting to be just a bit much really!!!!!! "

How about? wrote on Dec 5, 2007 8:19 PM:

" While we are at it; lets ban outdoor grilling. BBQs cause too much smoke! Especially charcoal grills. I'm a vegan and I hate the smell of animal flesh being grilled in my neighbors yards. How about one more law? "

why? wrote on Dec 5, 2007 3:29 PM:

" Why do people cry "you can't do that, I have a right to ......" When they say that, they mean their rights are more important than someone else's. Why are their rights more important? Is it really a right? Or is it "I just want my way!" Stomp foot and hold breath. Why can't we simply avoid situations (leaf smoke, cigarette smoke, alcohol) that we don't like? Life isn't fair and it isn't equal. It's not all bliss. Why do people think they need to tell others how to live. I don't tell anyone to burn leaves, not burn leaves, smoke, not smoke, drink, not drink, go to my church. Why are you trying to tell me what I can and can't do? I'm tired of "you're offending me, stop." Just go somewhere else if you're offended. "

I think it was the eagles that said wrote on Dec 5, 2007 1:53 PM:

" ........................................... get over it!!! get over it!!!!!!!!!!!! GET OVER IT!!!!! :) life will go on i promise!!!!!! goofy ppl! "

See both sides wrote on Dec 5, 2007 11:12 AM:

" I too, used to love the smell of burning leaves - it's a great childhood memory. But since contracting asthma in my mid-30's I also now understand the point being made by those with this disease. I am very saddened by the hateful remarks made by some of the readers, obviously out of ignorance. I think the best answer would probably be controlled burning on certain days; then the burners could have their time and the asthmatics could go outside once in awhile. "Love thy neighbor as thyself." "

To: Unbelievable wrote on Dec 4, 2007 3:21 PM:

" I do believe that you have problems when there is smoke in the air. I also will not change MY way of life because of YOUR handicap. Deal with your problems yourself and either move or stay indoors when you can smell smoke outside. If we banned everything that had an adverse effect on someone then there would be nothing left. "

this is DUMB wrote on Dec 4, 2007 2:26 PM:

" i could see maybe putting a cap on the days of the month or what months you can burn. OK that is consideration. but basically this is a bunch of crap so because YOU have asthma, we can't do things that have been done sine oh i dont' know the discovery of fire!!! COME on do you really think you ppl are the only ones on the planet that have breathing problems noone complained in the 60's when they burned leaves, oh but that right cars were not so badly creating global warming then either i wonder if all these things don't have something to do w/each other?? umm just like the smoking ban. now leaves soon bonfires, and not too long from that no more gatherings in ppls homes, what a communist country this has become, maybe stop some of the other polutants and not so much the small ones?! like i said DUMB "

To "leaves": wrote on Dec 4, 2007 8:39 AM:

" I know that there are many other triggers for asthma sufferers because my small children and i do have asthma but the worst of all of the triggers are the leaves burning. there have been many times that i have had to say no to going outside to play because my neighbors are burning leaves. we already have to monitor the weather conditions outside before we can go outside so why should we also have to avoid going outside on a perfect day just because someone wants to burn leaves. hasn't anyone ever heard of a mulching lawn mover. "

re: why ban? wrote on Dec 2, 2007 2:14 PM:

" you have a very acceptable point!!! "

MCB wrote on Dec 2, 2007 5:31 AM:

" I doubt it is really the "clean air" problem that prevents people from burning their leaves within the city limits. There are too many people out there who are not responsible enough to be trusted. I would rather not have my neighbors setting fires in their yards......I would prefer to keep the roof over my head from going up in flames!!! "

To sox wrote on Dec 1, 2007 5:15 PM:

" Go whitesox in 08 "

leaves wrote on Dec 1, 2007 8:04 AM:

" I love the smell of burning leaves. Remember when the farmers use to burn the stalks in the spring before they would disc up the ground. That was an awesome smell too. I miss the good old days. I do feel sorry for you asthma sufferers, but i love it as much as you hate it and that is my right. Cold air and warm air can trigger asthma. Are we going to cut that out? Not to mention excercise or stress.. guess we can't do that either. We better get rid of the trees.. you all know how much pollen they put out. "

Too many laws wrote on Dec 1, 2007 5:40 AM:

" What ever happened to freedom? Can we make our own decisions? Just use common sense when you burn leaves. When I was a kid growing up in Chicago we burned our leaves in concrete garbage bins next to the alley. They had two casr iron doors. One at the bottom and on the top. The city removed them in a rat control effort. I don't remember the smoke being an issue though. I do burn my landscape debris but the leaves, I mulch with my lawnmower. They're good for the soil. the worms eat the mulched leaves. "

Shadow wrote on Nov 30, 2007 12:42 PM:

" Leaf burning is an integral part of midwestern life. I am afraid to imagine the sterile, non-descript, completely neutered version of the midwest these leaf Nazi's like Cathy Drea would have us live in. "

Shadow wrote on Nov 30, 2007 12:37 PM:

Shadow wrote on Nov 30, 2007 12:34 PM:

Up yours burn banners wrote on Nov 30, 2007 12:24 PM:

" When did we start breeding so many Fascists? Seems like everything is a no-no these days. "

Why is it... wrote on Nov 30, 2007 12:14 PM:

" that when people are so busy trying to be right ....they miss the whole point of what someone has previously said? For all of you who say that you have a God-given right to burn leaves then I say go to the Asthma and Allergy Clinic and talk to the Doctors there....watch the children and elderly patients come and go all day. They also have a God-given right to breathe. Maybe we should just make everyone buy mulching lawnmowers.....that's just as riduculous....but it's a better solution than some of you have suggested, like staying inside all season! "

You Can't wrote on Nov 30, 2007 11:37 AM:

" ... legislate common sense. You city folks never cease to amaze me with your appetite to control what everyone else does. Keep your silly little ordinances in your silly cities and leave the rest of us alone. Seriously - everyone has something, if you have asthma, stay inside with the windows shut. You people are going to figure out that life is not fair and you're going to have to deal with it. "

Consider this wrote on Nov 30, 2007 10:44 AM:

" How bout' we have a little cosideration for our neighbors. Most pro-burners just don't seem to care if thier rights have an effect on others. It does not matter if our houses are closed up..they still reek of smoke. More consideration where you live? Give me a break! How about I move in next door to you and install spotlghts that light up your bedroom windows. Work(loudly)in the garage at all hours. Perhaps pile my household trash in the hot sun for weeks at a time and stink up the neighborhood and atract vermin. Keep a few old tires around to collect water to breed west nile virus. Get a loud dog that barks at every leaf that flutters by. Put a couple cars up on blocks in the front yard. Own 6 or so cars so I can park them in front of your house. Set up a target range in my backyard. We need regulations for those who don't consider others. Don't give me the "CRAP" that if I don't like it move or pick a different place to live. "

to Sox 05 wrote on Nov 30, 2007 9:44 AM:

" I did not say that the burning of leaves made me miss work. I said that the migraines as a result of the burning leaves has caused lost work days in the past. Do some homework....there are many triggers for migraine sufferers. I take meds 2X a day to prevent them and am still at risk when I am exposed to something beyond my control ie leaf burning. However, before anyone starts bashing this post, I urge you to do your homework FIRST! "

Why ban? wrote on Nov 29, 2007 11:31 PM:

" I would rather be for limits than an all-out ban. I love being able to burn my tons of leaves, but I don't need to do it 24/7/365. Wait...I'm trying to be reasonable...that will never work in Illinois. Besides, who's going to come bust me when I burn my leaves against the law our rural neck of the woods? "

Unbelievable wrote on Nov 29, 2007 9:08 PM:

" Why is it so hard for people to understand that some of us suffer to breath when the air is filled with smoke. The bottom line is, there is really no need to burn leaves. And there is no need to burn grass clippings, like my neighbor tries to do. Or I should say, there's no need to make the grass clippings a smoldering pile of smoke, they don't actually burn. Typical from a group of people who think the world revolves around them and they can do what they want without regard for the others around them, it's called being selfish. "

unhappy camper wrote on Nov 29, 2007 9:03 PM:

" ok...this is my worry....when are they going to start trying to take away my campfires? will i soon not be able to roast hotdogs or marshmallows? "

:) wrote on Nov 29, 2007 9:01 PM:

" if you're allergic to the smoke, why don't you just go to a bar? "

seriously? wrote on Nov 29, 2007 7:29 PM:

" YOu poor asthematic people. I do feel sorry for you. I can not wait until you fight for the cause of getting some kind of rail system put up in BN so that all of you single car drivers will help stop global warming. Seriously, with all this hatred toward burning leaves I can only imagine the good you will do when you put forth this much effort into going green. "

FYI wrote on Nov 29, 2007 7:20 PM:

" Leaf smoke really makes my chest hurt. I used to dread this time of year when I ran a delivery route through small towns and country roads. A few whifs is all it takes to make me sick. I wish I could burn them, as it is fun, but I just can't handle it anymore, and I'm only 38. "

you are kidding right? wrote on Nov 29, 2007 7:18 PM:

" You are complaining about burning leaves? Too funny. To the poster that could not make it to work, honestly, or you the only one in that car when you make the drive to work and THAT has nothing to do with global warming? Wait, I am sure you were on your electric moped. Find a better cause to complain about. This one is just down right silly. "

as usual wrote on Nov 29, 2007 6:01 PM:

" insensitive people! If you do not have asthma or allergies, of course, you don't understand. It isn't that I dislike the smell of burning leaves or fireplaces, I just can't breathe. I feel sorry for people that have no compassion and no understanding, I am not trying to make a law, but I know if I am doing something to hinder someone's health, I wouldn't do it, hope maybe you can understand our situation too. "

hate it wrote on Nov 29, 2007 4:22 PM:

" i hate the burning leaves.....especially when my neighbors do it when I have clothes drying on the clothesline....in my town they burn year round. I don't want a ban but I wouldn't mind some restrictions so I know when things will be burning so I can save my laundry for another day. Can't win em all. "

rights vs. rights wrote on Nov 29, 2007 4:16 PM:

" Whose rights are more important? We have too many laws and not enough common sense or courtesy. "

I moved to wrote on Nov 29, 2007 4:14 PM:

" the country to avoid laws like this so I hope the state doesn't decide to tell me what I can and can't do where I live. Geez, can't we burn leaves unless a neighbor asks us very nicely to stop because it's hurting them. I don't want to hurt a neighbor, but the state should stay out of it. Let's ban it for everybody because some people have trouble with it. What happened to common sense? "

TO: to:ATLANTA RULES wrote on Nov 29, 2007 3:43 PM:

" I said WHENEVER I want, not WHATEVER I want. I thought we we talking about leaves here. Learn to read, DA. "

munchies wrote on Nov 29, 2007 3:42 PM:

" mmmm burning leaves gives me the munchies "

Burn baby burn wrote on Nov 29, 2007 3:24 PM:

" My leaves on West South Street in Clinton have been raked in the street awaiting pick up for over three weeks now, guess I'm going to burn them Saturday after all. "

who cares wrote on Nov 29, 2007 3:11 PM:

" If your city picks or vaccuums them up, why do you care? Some people rather "have fun burning leaves" that care about their neighbors health. "

O rly? wrote on Nov 29, 2007 3:09 PM:

" Annoying people give me headaches. We should ban them. "

Maybe our Clinton wrote on Nov 29, 2007 3:08 PM:

" mayor will lower the flags too. "

To:To: If you don't like wrote on Nov 29, 2007 3:06 PM:

" If smoke from someone miles away impacts your quality of life then you should have thought more about living that close to the country. You might want to look into a good quality ari filter for your house. "

hmmhmm. wrote on Nov 29, 2007 2:59 PM:

" Personally, I hate the smell of burning leaves, but it's a fall traditional that should be kept. I know it damages our ozone and the end result could be skin cancer, if you're so concerned about getting skin cancer, wear some sunscreen. "

Smokey wrote on Nov 29, 2007 2:50 PM:

" I LOVE the smell of burning leaves. Doesn't bother me at all. Does anyone know if Yankee Candle has a "burning leaves" scented candle yet? "

Native wrote on Nov 29, 2007 2:37 PM:

" It figures Swartz would not care. "Thats just the way is is in a small town". Who cares about the health problems of the neighbors! They do not have any rights to clean air, I have my rights to burn leaves and pollute your air. Thats the way we used to do it. Do you still paint your house with lead based paint, like we used to do? Come into the new century, quit trying to prove you are a backward hick. "

Smokers have rights wrote on Nov 29, 2007 2:35 PM:

" Until some clean-air do gooder is willing to rake, bag, and haul away my leaves, its burn, baby, burn. "

O rly? wrote on Nov 29, 2007 2:26 PM:

" Annoying people give me headaches. We should ban them. "

PowerUp wrote on Nov 29, 2007 2:21 PM:

" Brad- your smoke is pouring into Mallard subdivision again! "

Luther Billis wrote on Nov 29, 2007 2:19 PM:

" Far too much bile to combat here so I'll just say for those of you who do not have Asthma, enjoy your good fortune. For those of us who do suffer from one of the most increasingly-common diseases in the US leaf-burning is a real problem that impacts our lives. My hometown still allows burning and weekend visits there are accompanied by frequent use of the rescue inhaler. I am glad to live in Normal and say 'long live the suck truck!' "

This is really weak... wrote on Nov 29, 2007 1:45 PM:

" front page news.... "

Mike wrote on Nov 29, 2007 1:44 PM:

" How did we ever survive before the advent of the majority of one? "

To: To: If you don't like wrote on Nov 29, 2007 1:34 PM:

" Sounds like you failed to make an informed decision when you chose where to live. "

Mayor of LeRoy trailor park: wrote on Nov 29, 2007 1:33 PM:

" Burning leaves (or anything else) gives us a chance to gather and drink beer and chat about the neighbors with the neighbors and the landlord while we watch the fire burn! Good times in a small town! We can make a party out of just about anything while we talk about the other less fortunate trailor park trash behind their backs...! After all we are better than them, and we know it! "

To: To: If you don't like wrote on Nov 29, 2007 1:28 PM:

" Sounds like you failed to make an informed decision when you chose where to live. "

Dysphemism wrote on Nov 29, 2007 12:57 PM:

" Chestnuts roasting on an open fire Jack frost nipping at your nose Yuletide carols being sung by a choir And folks dressed up like Eskimos. "

to:ATLANTA RULES wrote on Nov 29, 2007 12:56 PM:

" And if someone reports you you're looking at a hefty fine from EPA or county health. You're releasing dioxins if you burn plastics and such. "

All need to read the laws wrote on Nov 29, 2007 12:54 PM:

" On open burning in Illinois. Leaves and yard waste are burnable if the city you live in doesn't ban it. It also states you Must not burn if the smoke is causing problems for a neighbor who has breathing difficulties such as asthma, bronchitis,COPD, emphysema etc. What's not allowed and way to many people in rural areas don't follow the burning laws is you can't burn your garbage(plastics construction material etc). "

I agree with the wrote on Nov 29, 2007 12:39 PM:

" leaf burning ban in Bloomington. However, we have had leaves at the curb in front of our home since before Thanksgiving and they have not yet been picked up. Every day we have to rake the leaves back to the curb after they have been blown back into the yard by traffic driving by and high winds. The city of Bloomington may pick up leaves but not very often. "

Man Mountain wrote on Nov 29, 2007 12:32 PM:

" Precious liberties are taken away slowly. It is proper to consider others before one acts, that is part of wisdom with your liberty. Don't be fooled by the one's in government who say they are protecting you. Beware of these. Thinking of your neighbor and using your liberties wisely will not only help you, but it will help keep the government from further restricting our liberties. "

Think About It wrote on Nov 29, 2007 12:30 PM:

" The issue is not the right to burn leaves or not it’s the health issues that come from burning leaves. For the person that wrote about having to take medication for their allergies. Do you know you are more at risk for having complication from burning leaves than a person with no allergies? For the people who don’t have allergies that burn leaves, if the people with allergies have an reaction and need to increase visits to the doctors or take more medication, it affects everyone through health insurance. When I was a child in central Illinois, we use to burn leaves all the time and loved the smell of it. Now as an adult I have to pay for insurance out the noise for other people health problems!!! "

Banital wrote on Nov 29, 2007 12:25 PM:

" I guess the easier solution would be to ban breathing, then we wouldn't need to worry about smoking, leaf burning, lead dust, smog, or perfume in elevators. It would apply to everyone rather than select groups expressing their freedom. As a side benefit, we wouldn't have to worry about abortion, separation of church and state, gay rights, racism, AQI, George Bush or anything else. Ir removes everyone's concerns. "

i like to wrote on Nov 29, 2007 12:23 PM:

" burn leaves one at a time with my lighter on the porch "

Beavis wrote on Nov 29, 2007 12:20 PM:

" Fire, Fire......WAS HERE FIRST! "

Think About It!! wrote on Nov 29, 2007 12:15 PM:

To: If you don't like wrote on Nov 29, 2007 12:12 PM:

" That is where you are ignorantly wrong. I live in NORMAL...leaf burning is NOT legal here. I live on the near the North side of Normal and apparently someone burns in the fields North of the Normal city limits. Smoke drifts for miles.... So there! I DO live where it is not legal to burn and I STILL have to deal with the stinky smell drifting into my open windows when I'm trying to enjoy the fresh air. "

Enough wrote on Nov 29, 2007 12:05 PM:

" Let's also ban fireplaces. They can put off noxious smoke and the government should go door to door and seal any wood or gas burning units. "

PowerUp! wrote on Nov 29, 2007 12:01 PM:

" Nice form with the rake Brad!! Remember - stay up wind boys!! "

Good Idea wrote on Nov 29, 2007 12:01 PM:

" Uh, yeah this contributes to green house gases. You complain now, but wait till your grandkids living in New York City (Manhattan) have to move because their place is permanently under water. "

To: Re Whiners wrote on Nov 29, 2007 11:38 AM:

" a baseball bat is no match against my second amendment. Bring it you flippin liberal moron. "

to: to: gee folks wrote on Nov 29, 2007 11:25 AM:

" haha yep hanging used to be a tradition and one i think they should start doing again. there was a LOT less crime in them days!!! and with all the nut jobs running killing their children or killing ppl from drunk driving. i think thats a grand idea and another idea i have is for all the whinners to stop whinning about everything, when will you ppl stop?? what else can you take away or ruin. you complain no matter what, thats your type. and you just need to be stopped. why should we be giving up MORE rights for whinny lil ppl as you?? i think not!!! GET OVER IT!!!! "

Lee wrote on Nov 29, 2007 11:11 AM:

" Shoot, I have hay fever and am allergic to corn pollen and alfalfa. Can the American Lung Association please ban the planting and harvesting of these irritants? Every year I have to spend hundreds of dollars just to get some minor temporary relief. If I do not spend the money, I just cannot go outside without my lungs filling up with fluid and my nose getting stuffy and my eyes watering and itching. There are countless others like me. Can you in the ALA please put this on your agenda to outlaw? "

Downs resident wrote on Nov 29, 2007 11:09 AM:

" Jeff makes a good point a little common sense when it comes to burning and thinking of your neighbors. There is someone who burns on the west side of Downs on a regular basis that just lets thier smoke pour into Mallard subdivision with out thinking of the neighbors. "

ATLANTA RULES wrote on Nov 29, 2007 10:55 AM:

" I live in Atlanta and I burn whenever I want. "

Wow wrote on Nov 29, 2007 10:52 AM:

" Another hard hitting news expose from the crack team of writers at the Pantagraph. I know I'll sleep better tonight knowing their on the job. "

Re: Whiners wrote on Nov 29, 2007 10:40 AM:

" Tell you what, I wont infringe on your right t oburn leves as long as you don't infringe on my right to crack your skull open with a baseball bat. Deal? "

Jay G. wrote on Nov 29, 2007 10:37 AM:

" I have many asthma triggers. Burning leaves is certainly one of them. But, I also have problems with chimney smoke from wood burning fireplaces. Are we to outlaw home fireplaces? I don't think so. Lets move on to more serious issues. "

why it is wrote on Nov 29, 2007 10:21 AM:

" I guess the reason it is news worthy is because it is becoming more of a problem. I live in a small town about 25 min away from Bloomington. We are allowed to burn leaves in our town, and let me tell you on the days when their is no breeze the smoke just lingers. It is so bad sometimes that you can't even see the street your driving on. I understand it would be taking away more of our freedoms, but there are better ways to get rid of your leaves. I would like it if our community would offer a place to bring them to like Tremont does. "

stinky wrote on Nov 29, 2007 9:54 AM:

" I live on Lincoln St. in Downs also....i hate when people burn leaves. The smell comes into your house. I wish that they would ban leaf burning. "

SMELLS LIKE: wrote on Nov 29, 2007 9:46 AM:

" WACKY TOBACKY!!..know wonder...lol "

Mulcher wrote on Nov 29, 2007 9:46 AM:

" I started using a mower to mulch my leaves several years ago. It works better when the discharge is modified by covering it and chopping the leaves up more. I recognize I am trading carbon monoxide emissions for smoke, but I like the result so much more, too - looks better than raking. And raking would be better for me physically, though I do rake most of the leaves before mulching. When later we had a niece with asthma, it made better sense, too. We live in a town, kind of in a valley, where a lot of people still burn, and the haze really hangs. However, I have to admit to a peculiar pleasure when the aroma of burned leaves is in the fall air. "

Sox 05 wrote on Nov 29, 2007 9:31 AM:

" To To Gee Folks: So you are blaming leaf burning on missing work? Gee, the traffic was too bad today, I think I will miss work also. "

If anyone had made wrote on Nov 29, 2007 9:31 AM:

" A candle that smells like burning leaves, can you let me know?? "

Smoke Patrol wrote on Nov 29, 2007 9:09 AM:

" Yep, lets pull all the cops together and go after all those leaf burners and public smokers. That's much more important than, say, arresting thieves, murderers and child molesters. "

JJ wrote on Nov 29, 2007 9:05 AM:

" OH, MY another ban. WHAT A SURPRISE (snide remarks :o). Who would have thought this was coming (another snide remark :o). If you didn't expect this, then you live in La La land. And it isn't the end. Government started playing Nanny and the majority of Illinois was oh sooooo happy with it. And I told you, eventually, government will get to something you care about. If not yet, they will. And yes, it bothers me. I stay inside, but I remember the fun I had as a kid raking and burning. Just because I'm getting older doesn't mean the rest of the world has to pay. I don't SHS either and I'm against the smoking ban. Anyone who believe this is a FREE country should be against it too. "

to gee folks wrote on Nov 29, 2007 8:54 AM:

" I completely agree with you! I also get very bad migraines when I am exposed to the smoke from burning leaves. I have missed work b/c they get so bad and can last well into the next day. And to bunch of whiners.....hanging people for crimes used to be a 'tradition' too....change is just hard to accept, but get over it when it's for the good of all people. "

hiden drunks wrote on Nov 29, 2007 8:53 AM:

" talk about burning leaves and about how the crowds gather "

Hey. . . wrote on Nov 29, 2007 8:49 AM:

" If you can't burn dried leaves rolled up in a bar after Jan. 1, then why should be you allowed to burn a big pile of them out on the street corner. Seems logical to me. "

... wrote on Nov 29, 2007 8:36 AM:

" Burning leaves are stinky!!! "

TO: what isn't normal is this wrote on Nov 29, 2007 8:22 AM:

" Madam, he's probably even happier that you're out of his. "

Burning is banned here... wrote on Nov 29, 2007 8:21 AM:

" ...and I am so glad. Since the ban our son hasn't been hospitalized with asthma. If you had to suffer every fall the way our son and I have over the years you'd be all for the ban too. Our son almost died because of a neighbor who had the "right" to burn leaves and wasn't going give it up. "

Mr Freedom wrote on Nov 29, 2007 8:15 AM:

" The Health Nazis are at it again! Don't do anything that might possibly upset someone else. Achtung! The Fuhrer is alive and well posing as a "public health official". The next step will be to line up at the Health Dept. and get your tattoo. "

I have asthma wrote on Nov 29, 2007 8:14 AM:

" and any kind of smoke can set off an attack. But, I don't expect others to govern their life because I have asthma . So, if you like burning leaves, go for it. Go ahead and polute the air, waste a good resources that can be used for building up soil and go ahead and make those with lung problems suffer a little more. You have the right. "

Common Sense wrote on Nov 29, 2007 8:14 AM:

" Out in very rural areas, it wouldn't affect anyone..if you have neighbors I think it's rude. It's a fire hazard, it's harmful to those who have compromised breathing abilities, and it stinks. This is not the government taking away your freedoms, it's the goverment protecting everyone else's rights of breathing and to live in a non-charred house "

To: Adolf Cogniznce, M.D. wrote on Nov 29, 2007 8:05 AM:

" Good point. Another problem is that most people reading these posts do not know what aspirating means. I'm sure the state government will come through on this one. They will eventually protect us from ourselves. A few weekends of burning leaves a year and...one person gets a migrane, one person's eyes water, one person sneezes, one person doesn't like her husband (but put up with his leaf burning for 17 years!!!). One freedom lost at a time because someone else doesn't want you to have it. I'm becomming more Libertarian every day. "

Too give me a break wrote on Nov 29, 2007 7:55 AM:

" Good comment, but please don't give the global warming nuts any ideas, they may outdo the cancer society and ban the sun first. "

waste of time wrote on Nov 29, 2007 7:54 AM:

" ban on burning leaves? If you live in a small town, you should be able to burn leaves as I DO AND LOVE IT! If you don't like it, don't live in the areas where it is allowed!!!! I grew up in CALIfORNIA with horses in my backyard, we had neighbors who didn't like the "horse smell", then MOVE, don't live there where it's allowed, if you do, don't complain!! DEAL WITH IT!! WHERE IS OUR FREEDOM GOING?? "

if you don't like wrote on Nov 29, 2007 7:53 AM:

" leaf burning then move to a community that doesn't allow it - it was legal before you moved into your current residence and if it bothered you that much you should have taken it into consideration. I dislike the mentality that you are going to move into a place where people do something and then make them stop because you don't like it. "

Laughing Bones wrote on Nov 29, 2007 7:48 AM:

" How in the wide wide world of sports is this front page news?????? No wonder this community is so ignorant is there ever really going to be any real news within the pages of the Pantagraph? "

Too Bad wrote on Nov 29, 2007 7:47 AM:

" you do not have an unfettered right to live in any area you desire. If your child has asthma, I feel for you. Coddling your child and having him live in a glass bubble will never be good for the child. It is "his or her" disability and, within reason, they are going to have to learn to adapt to the world. The world should not adapt to them. If you don't like the smell, too bad. It is probably no more annoying that living beside you, with your stupid "end the war" and "Socialist 08"signs in the yard, or even living near you. Rake'em up everyone and let'em burn. "

Leaf rights // Smokers out wrote on Nov 29, 2007 7:32 AM:

" Burning leaves is a wonderful way to end the fall. I remember doing it when I was a kid. I don't see how that can be more harmful than smoking outside. If they are going to stop people from burning a natural thing like leaves outside once every fall, the maybe we should be looking at man made ciggaretts with tar and nicotene added into it, being breathed out of peoples lungs and into the clean air around everybody else. I cannot stand to see yuppies going after leaf burners when there are plenty of people in the world who cant understand a surgeon generals warning about the dangers of 1st and 2nd hand smoke. Down with the public smokers and all rights to the leaf burners. "

YUCK!!! wrote on Nov 29, 2007 7:24 AM:

" I hate the smoke when it drifts into my open windows and stinks up my whole house. "

OMG wrote on Nov 29, 2007 7:19 AM:

" I can't believe this is the lead story today. Is there nothing else? The crack bust surely was more interesting than leaves. Glad I don't buy the paper anymore. "

A Clinton WATCHer wrote on Nov 29, 2007 7:03 AM:

" You know "To:Give Me A Break" is right! This is the same lousy government that stops me from fully utilizing the speedometer of my car. I mean I can get at least 100 mph, pushing it with the wind behind me...maybe 105, outta that baby and they clamp me down to 65. Jackboots! And then they take the perfectly legal right of drinking as much booze as I want and arrest me if I get behind the wheel of that same monster and drive the legal speed limit! Where's the justice? And now, just because the smoke from my burning leaves may screw around with somebody elses health, weaken their ability to live a normal existence and have them sucking for air like a drowning victim through a bent straw, these jackbooted government Nazis want to yank away the last vestige of my American manhood...my pyromania! IS THERE NO END? Thank you for listening. I think I'm ready for my shot now, doctor. "

Bunch of whiners wrote on Nov 29, 2007 7:01 AM:

" Burning leaves has been a rite of fall as well as a small town tradition in America for generations. Now all the complainers are trying to take it away. Before you know it all American traditions will be gone because " It might not be healthy for you" or "My kids can't handle it" or blah blah blah whatever excuse can be thought of. Since when has America became a nation of such spoiled babies!!! "

Woo Hooo wrote on Nov 29, 2007 1:26 AM:

" I am all for a state wide ban on leaf burning. .. or at least a ban in Clinton on leaf burning!!!! "

John Q wrote on Nov 28, 2007 11:54 PM:

" To: what isn't normal is this Thanks for giving me the best laugh I've had all week. Enjoyed your post. "

Gee folks~~ wrote on Nov 28, 2007 11:23 PM:

" I don't want to rain on anyone's parade, but the smell of burning leaves gives me a migraine of all migraines. I'm not against it, but I for one can't take the smell. I have a neighbor that loves to burn his garbage and that also makes me ill. I'm sure their are others out there that suffer the same consequences. I have friends that have asthma and they also can't take it. I'm sure they are not against it, just can't handle the smoke. "

American Lung Assn wrote on Nov 28, 2007 11:05 PM:

" I have given to the ALA in the past, not realizing that they were plotting against my right to burn my own stupid leaves. Surely, they can use their energy and resources better. I live in a rural neighborhood with a lot of leaves. Who exactly is going to pay for their disposal? Stupid stupid stupid!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "

To: Ex-Normalite wrote on Nov 28, 2007 11:01 PM:

" not so. This is as good as it gets! "

what isn't normal is this. wrote on Nov 28, 2007 10:56 PM:

" my ex-husband is from Bloomington and he tried for 17 years to burn leaves in our California backyard. It stunk, he was a nerd and I am glad he is out of my life now. "

Seriously though wrote on Nov 28, 2007 10:41 PM:

" Why burn leaves? The smoke is annoying. Bag it up, dump it in a field and let it decompose. No pollution; improves soil. A win-win solution. "

Ex-Normalite wrote on Nov 28, 2007 10:01 PM:

" Why is this the main story on the web site? There has to be much better things going on in McLean County than leaf burning. "

To: Give Me A Break wrote on Nov 28, 2007 9:46 PM:

" You are so right! I spent 25 years in the military, fighting for our freedoms. Now it seems I don't have any, thanks to squeeky wheel special interest groups. I live in the country and still burn my leaves in the yard, I don't have anyone to come pick my leaves up. I suppose I will have to haul them to Iraq to be used as a smoke screen for the guys that are still fighting for our dwindling freedoms. God Bless those great warriors, but don't let em get caught by the leaf nazi. It seems those that fight the hardest for our freedoms, reap the least. "

However.... wrote on Nov 28, 2007 9:32 PM:

" What about those children with lung disorders like asthma who can't go outside to play on days that people burn leaves?? There have been numerous beautiful fall days that I've had to keep my son inside to keep him from an asthma attack, or more damage to his lungs. I grew up in a small town where burning was legal, can't say I was EVER attracted by it! "

And tomorrow's headline news wrote on Nov 28, 2007 9:24 PM:

" THE JOY OF CLEANING THE GUTTERS! "

What wrote on Nov 28, 2007 9:01 PM:

" the hey??? "

Wow! wrote on Nov 28, 2007 7:58 PM:

" What a scoop! "

Dr. Adolf Cognizance M.D. wrote on Nov 28, 2007 7:04 PM:

" What is worse? Aspirating leaf mold, or catching a whiff of smoke? "

Give me a break.... wrote on Nov 28, 2007 6:42 PM:

" how soon before the anti-cancer society seeks to ban the sunshine because exposure can result in cancer??? It is a small town, semi-rural area. Keep burning the leaves. We do not need another restrictive government regulation. Were can I go to sign up for the coming war for independence from our own oppresive governments? If there were only a medium that allows people to freely exchange ideas and assemble......... "

oh well wrote on Nov 28, 2007 6:37 PM:

" Really slow news day in B-N. "

Area Man wrote on Nov 28, 2007 6:18 PM:

" Area Man read, throws away newspaper every day. "