We have just been informed that the U.S. Coast Guard, a branch of the Homeland Security Agency, has refused to issue Richmond a permit for what has become the traditional July 3 fireworks at Marina Bay. Although July 3 fireworks have become a Richmond tradition and this year’s fireworks were to have the added attraction of being part of the Centennial celebration, the Coast Guard apparently says Richmond didn’t let it know in time. So much for patriotism.