It’s that time again, mon frere!

That’s right, this is it.

Tax Free Weekend is this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday - August 17 - 19.

Now, this whole thing started as a way to make back-to-school affordable for families. This explains why items such as shoes, pants, shirts, and - this year - backpacks are on the list. I don’t quite understand why pajamas are approved for State sales tax exemption, though.

It’s been awhile since I’ve been to school, but as I recall sleeping in class was frowned upon. I always had to sneak my naps. Showing up in PJs is rather telling regarding one’s intent to sleep, don’tcha’ think?

I find it puzzling that bicycle helmets are excluded. When you think of how many kids ride their bikes to school, it seems organic that we’d want to protect their brains. I mean, what good’s all that fancy book learnin’ if the student receives some kind of traumatic brain injury.

As a man without children, I appreciate that I get to buy my sneakers sans sales tax each year at this time. It’s a tradition here. But, Governor Perry, could I prevail upon you to add beer and cigars to the list?

That’d be great.

I’d be awfully appreciative.