The council should also give law enforcement a special goal, a green light to aggressively shut down all habitually dangerous drivers, specifically those who repeatedly demonstrate an anti-social tendency toward us, the law abiding public. This is a select group of maniacs who believe that everyone is impressed by how loud their stereo is, how fast they can accelerate from a near-stop, spin their tires, squeal around corners or pass unsafely while driving like complete reckless morons.

A head-on collision that occurred on the Homer Spit this summer was caused by this type of behavior. It resulted in near-death for four tourists, serious injuries to two innocent female passengers in the car at fault, and outrage from a public all too familiar with the antics of the driver who caused it. This person and his sports car, with its loud stereo and modified exhaust, was constantly causing disturbances in our community. This sociopath is still unlawfully out there operating a motor vehicle, contemptuous for the safety of all and of our courts.

The type of anti-social and reckless driving described is not limited to the stupid, immature and inexperienced. It's a trait common to idiots of all ages, crossing all socio-economic boundaries. Basically, the ingredients are a lack of respect for the law and our public safety and a self-centered outlook on life with few negative long-lasting consequences for the offender.

That's why I believe that all dangerous and anti-social behavior committed behind the wheel of an automobile should be prosecuted aggressively and punished harshly. Jake brakes are annoying, but the speed that necessitates them deadly. A loud exhaust coupled with a wall-shaking or sleep-interrupting stereo system is annoying, but the lack of self-control exhibited by someone who subjects a peaceful public to it is indicative of malice and a potentially dangerous attitude. Drivers who employ techniques that would win a demolition derby are not impressive. They're dangerously operating a deadly weapon with you, I and our loved ones at risk. The public's need for more and better protection from each of these offensive and deadly behaviors is long overdue. The city council has taken a first step in that process.

Roger O. Cornett