Letter: Anti-smoking nannies are out of control

Thursday, May 10, 2007 | 7:26 a.m.

I was simultaneously amused and dismayed while reading Daryl Morris' May 8 letter, "Let's start dealing with the big issues." Mr. Morris' comments - encouraging smokers to embrace and just deal with the new anti-smoking law, or else move to Baghdad - brought to mind the full circle we have traveled during the past 50 years.

Throughout the '60s, nonsmokers had nowhere to go without being exposed to the smelly, disgusting and deadly smoking habit. Of course, they deserved to have the choice of going places without being exposed. Groups were formed to pressure businesses, pass laws and obtain relief. These groups were successful, and accommodations were made to provide for nonsmokers' sensibilities.

However, once they smelled blood in the water, they would not relax and allow everyone to enjoy life. The circle has now been closed, and while smoking is a perfectly legal practice in America, smokers have nowhere to go and enjoy the things that nonsmokers can.

The anti-smoking nannies are within reach of donning the mantle of the 20th century Prohibitionists. The anti-smokers won and the smokers lost. I suppose they are proud of themselves.

I for one do not plan to take Mr. Morris' suggestion and move to Baghdad. I plan to stay in America and partake in whatever " life, liberty and pursuit of happiness" the nannies will allow. The way things are going in America, however, Baghdad may look much more attractive within the next 50 years.

F. Jay Harrell, Las Vegas