A lot of hot air

By The Herald (Rock Hill, S.C.)

Posted: October 26, 2009 at 4:40 a.m.

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Rock Hill, S.C. — Most of us probably have had enough of the “balloon boy” stories - and still may be a bit put out that we were taken in by the hoax. However, we will relish seeing the heedless Heene parents punished for their outlandish publicity stunt. ...

At this point, it is difficult to work up much anger at the Heenes. Their failed attempt to grab the gold ring of fame was more pathetic than anything else.

Nonetheless, their stunt endangered a lot of people, especially the pilots who tried to get close to the soaring balloon to see if the boy was still aboard. Many people, including law enforcement officers, air traffic controllers, military personnel and others, also wasted time and taxpayers’ money on this bogus emergency.

So we have no trouble with the plan by Sheriff Alderden to charge the Heenes with conspiracy, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, making a false report to authorities, attempting to influence a public servant and, apparently, whatever else he can throw at these two highly irresponsible parents.

As often is the case in instances of illadvised attempts at pop-culture immortality, we are left wondering: What could they have been thinking?

Opinion, Pages 4 on 10/26/2009

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