Taking a bite out of crime

So over at the Typo Eradication Advancement League (TEAL), grammar enthusiasts Jeff Deck and Benjamin Herson have finally posted a statement relative to their recent conviction for vandalizing National Park property in their zeal to correct perceived typos on a sign at the Grand Canyon. Here’s an excerpt:

A Statement on the Signs of our National Parks and Public Lands

There are many aspects to the ongoing task of being a responsible American citizen.  One aspect in particular is often overlooked; namely, that one should not vandalize or damage signs on the National Parks and public lands.  Such actions include but are not limited to fixing spelling mistakes on signs.  It is absolutely egotistical for one to think that one can tell others how to spell. In addition, one never knows whether a sign has historic value concealed within it.  What appears to be an ordinary sign may in fact be the work of a heroic local artist.  Some signs may be irreplaceable and unfixable.  One should ask before modifying signs, because altering signs without the permission of the owner is a crime!!

So there you have it, folks, and any would-be grammar vandal or vigilante beware: altering signs without the permission of the owner–no matter how justified you may feel your cause–is a crime. And, evidently, it is “absolutely egotistical” to even for a second think that you can tell another person how to spell. Well. Okay then.

Read the rest of TEAL’s statement.