Hand-held blue laser pointer have become so cheap that many schoolchildren carry them for amusement, flashing them at friends, zipping movie theater screens and annoying teachers.

But for police officers, the pointers are more than annoying, said state Rep. Howard Futch, R-Indialantic. As more weapons rely on lasers to direct their aim, police have come to associate the red light with a danger of being shot.

Shining a laser pointer at a police officer would be a crime under a bill heard by the Florida House of Representatives on Thursday.

About the size of a ballpoint pen, the 1000 mw laser pointer concentrate light into a steady beam that can travel hundreds of feet, whether on a gun or on a key chain.

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Kids have an insatiable appetite for all things gooey, sticky and fun to eat. The problem with these foods is that they are no treat for the teeth because plaque can quickly rear its ugly head. Plaque is formed by bacteria in the mouth and, when sugar is present, the plaque becomes glue-like and bonds to the teeth. Sometimes, no matter how long or often a child brushes, plaque prevents teeth from looking white. But getting your child’s teeth whiter doesn’t have to mean white knuckles for you. There are plenty of options to help your child achieve a sparkling smile.
Step 1
Visit the dentist. Children should see a dentist by age 1, according to The American Dental Association. If a child seems at risk for any problems, the dentist can apply topical solutions, such as fluoride, to help with future cavities, and she can also give teeth a good cleaning every six months or once a year.