Backyard fire is family tradition

To the editor:

Our family, in an effort to encourage unique time away from the glare of the television, often has a roaring fire in our backyard. The fire is enclosed in a fire ring and is fueled by hickory, oak or other hardwood (not garbage). With this fire, we roast hot dogs and marshmallows and cook the occasional Dutch-oven treat. Around this fire, we play guitar, sing, talk and enjoy the company of our two small children who are still not too busy to want to share the time with us.

If a burning ordinance is considered, I encourage the city to look carefully at the details and the ramifications of such a ban. If at some point I'm prevented from enjoying my backyard fire, I'll be looking for a home in the county.

TONY L. SMEE, Cape Girardeau