Highlands County is anthrax hoax central

Apparently Highlands County is the center of the universe for anthrax hoaxes. At least it appears that way, considering the actions of a few people over the last several months. If it weren't so disruptive and caused so much fear - especially at first - it would be comical. But there's nothing funny about someone scaring other people.

The latest episode was some substance found at the Lakeshore Mall movie theaters Tuesday evening. The sheriff's office hasn't assigned an investigator so we don't know if there's really been some kind of hoax. Hazmat did respond.

Before that a woman was accused of trying to make it look like someone else sent white powder to others. The biggest incident was on April 1, when two men were accused of delivering numerous envelopes filled with white powder to cars parked at Florida Hospital and in mailboxes in the area. A huge response followed, including locking down the hospital.

It's amazing that someone could be so ignorant to think such an act is funny and enjoyable. They risk so much doing something so stupid. It must be the reaction of seeing people scared that fuels someone to do it.

Our tax dollars pay for these hoaxes. Our emergency personnel must treat these incidents seriously. Most of us believe these are hoaxes, but if by some chance they weren't, people would be hurt and others would lose their jobs. So they have to respond.

There's no explaining the crazy things people do. It's impossible to find a rational explanation for an irrational act. Still, if you're kicking around the idea of loading up some envelopes with white powder or doing something else with it to scare folks, please, spare us. Find something more productive to do. Create a scary costume for Halloween or something. At least you don't risk a prison sentence if you get caught.