CTL,
1-3. Aren’t non-show fireworks already illegal? You can add personal injuries caused by them. BTW, while I generally like dogs. barking dogs drive ME crazy, especially when I am trying to sleep.
4. I guess he was mugged by reality. After what you wrote about Bill I would think that you would not want to admit having known him. I would also not put crooked, anti-religious Hilary down on a list of people who can recommend me.
5. I agree. Actually, in Europe and Israel libertarians are called liberals, which is the original meaning of the word. See the website of the Liberal International for their platform. A true liberal would, for example, oppose laws against consensual adult activities (including all types of drugs) as well as anti-discrimination laws that apply to individuals.