The Washington herald., 1911-06-22

NauStlc expressions OF Wratn ana
comments tinged with an element
of the sulphuric are being hurled at
the great Washington public be-
cause of seeming penuriousness
and a demonstrated reluctance to
dig down in their jeans" and bring
forth a sufficient amount of "coin
of the realm" for a big safe and
sane celebration of the joyous
Fourth. At least this is the senti-
ment of the joint committee in
charge of the finances, which are at
low ebb, with nothing much in
sight to boost them.
CAUSES CRITICISM.
The committee asked that at least $500
be subscribed by Saturday. so that prepa-
rations may be completed as nearly as
possible. Their answer was pitiful SO,
which found its way into the slim treas
ury yesterday, thereby calling forth criti-
cism.
If the National Capital. held up to the
United States as a model city, and, in
fact, as the originator of the safe and
sane Fourth, really desires to celebrate
the birth Of the nation this year in the
same old way-a way which generally
means mangled fingers and torn or ears,
to say nothing of numerous mishaps to
eyes and other features-the committee
is willing However, they believe pub
lic-spirited citizens only need little jog
gfng to bring them to a realization OF
the situation.
Last year a crowd that was estimated
at $1,000 witnessed the pyrotechnic dis
play on the Ellipse. Bands played STIR
ring music and the celebration was lauded
by the entire city. Five thousand dollars
was expended, and it was raised with less
trouble than was anticipated. This year
only half that amount is in the treasury,
and the public is showing no enthusiasm,
the holiday is but few days
off.
Capt. James F. Oyster, president Of the
board of education, said last night he
could see no reason why the Capital City
could not without the slightest trouble
subscribe the desired amount of money.
Comfort to Parents.
THE safe and sane celebration is un-
doubtedly a great comfort to parents"
Capt. Oyster said. Lads and lassies and
the grown-ups also are able to enjoy the
fireworks without mishap or fatalities,
and have just as good time, in fact
much better.
THE fund is certainly a modest one
and could easily be raised If each pa
triotic man and woman would contribute
as much as a nickel Such a display of
hrew orks is a pleasure to the entire COM
to an individual-and think
It shame the public has to be begged |
for money to make the celebration of
the nations birthday a success
Taking a gentle slap at the public, |
Capt. Oyster said he presumed fathers |
and mothers would rather pay doctors |
nsuring the safety Of their children by |
aiding the safe and sane proposition.
There was not a single fatality in |
last year, and the country /
applauded the showing Of this city," he
added.
Maj Judson, Engineer Commissioner,
also is indignant at the apathy shown by
"
''Perhapse they are all broke, like
am,'' he said, but It seems that such a |
tiny sum as 500 could be raised without
difficulty Other cities raise twice and
three times the largest amount asked by
the joint committee, which is 1900 with
out turning a hair, yet patriotic Wash
lngton sQuirTns and gives pennies instead
Of dollars
Only Way Possible.
Commissioner Rudolph believes a house.
toulouse canvass viii be necessary to ac-
luire the money for even half Of a cele-
bration. Careful estimates and a re-
iuced display Of fireworks viii keep
down expenses, he said, but the public |
probably viii be disappointed at the exhI- |
oition. Gold, silver, and bronze medals |
have been purchased for the winners in |
The athletic contests, and band stands are |
to be erected, all of which must come |
from the fireworks fund. Il
AS the Fourth draws near, the health |
,fice once again is compelled to issue a
warming regarding the deadly tetanus |
germ. which generally claims few dozen /
rictims each year as a result Of wounds
made by toy pistols and crackers.
Keep even the slightest wounds open,
'emove all particles Of dirt, cauterize /
With a solution OF carbolic acid, and send /
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