On Tuesday we received the first report, via a phone call, of stolen political signs. As Election Day, Nov. 6, draws nearer, we'll probably hear about stolen or destroyed signs two or three more times.

Hopefully, someone who does this sometime during the next 30-plus days gets caught, either by alert homeowners, security cameras or by someone who happens to be in the right place at the right time.

Stealing, destroying or defacing political signs is a crime, punishable by a fine of up to $250.

Political signs are not cheap and candidates depend on them to keep their name in front of the voters. Are there too many out there? Perhaps, but what harm are they doing? As long as the signs are placed correctly according to Maine laws, the number of signs doesn't matter.

If you have a problem with a candidate, talk, call or write to them. Don't take your frustration out on their sign. And, if the above mentioned crime was done by someone who is just bored, take up a lawful activity instead.

We will also probably hear about a rash of stolen or smashed pumpkins this month. Again, I am guilty of doing such a dastardly deed as a teen but, if I had been caught, I would have gladly done some community service because I did feel awful the one night it happened.

When I think back, it never entered my mind that someone paid money for, or grew, the pumpkins, or perhaps they belonged to and were being enjoyed by young children. Having grandchildren who now enjoy displaying pumpkins, whole or carved, during October, I would be upset if someone came along and took/smashed their pumpkins. I am sure they would be mad as well.

So, you possible pumpkin marauders, don't break the hearts of pumpkin lovers. Buy your own and perhaps spend your idle time learning a new skill, like pumpkin art. The internet has lots of lessons on this.