From: "dona oliver" <oliveu@magnus.net>
To: "balloon list" <balloon@fooledya.com>
Subject: Re: Bubble Gum  and Balloon lecture in Fresno?
Date: Thu, 16 Mar 2000 16:10:06 -0400


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> Candy inside a balloon is a nice idea indeed, and most kids like it. The
powder
> inside a balloon is talc. It`s harmless unless you`re allergic>

I can't document this but I don't think talc is "harmless".  I had heard
rumors, many long years ago, that it was a suspected carcinogen.  And I
recently heard a health spot on our local news which suggested that one
should avoid using any talc product on babies.  They specifically said
because it is a "known carcinogen". I think you are supposed to avoid
"breathing" it, but who knows.  I can't imagine anyone worrying about the
tiny amount of talc involved with bubble gum from a balloon, but you know
how people are (or can be).  If you're simply wild about the idea of using
bubble gum instead of little balls, then what the hay.  But the wrapped
candy sounds "safer".

Personally, I order the tiny balls that glow in the dark.  They are a big
hit. I'm sure somebody somewhere can point out reasons that this is among
America's greatest health threats, but once again, what the hay.  Life is
terminal and sooner or later, we all die from an overdose of it.

Let me offer a little warning about those glow-in-the-dark super balls.
Should you have the uncontrollable urge to take a whole gross of them into a
dark bathroom and fling them as hard as you can.... it's painful.  And
although it might really look cool, you won't know first-hand unless you
wear a lot of protective gear.  Now, is there anyone left out there who
might have thought I had a little intelligence?

BTW, if Mo from Twist and Shout is out there somewhere, and missing me
desperately, I just got pictures of us and would love to send you a copy.
All I need is an address.

Dona