I just came back from the heart of Public Square in Cleveland, Ohio, the Terminal Tower (walked across the street to get some lunch in there). They have small patios OUTSIDE. I was on the patio with THREE ARMY MEN men in uniform and we were having a cigarette. They sent a Cleveland Police Officer after us. AND IM NOT LYING! Welcome to the great fascist state of Ohio.
The stupid, shallow nanny-staters who, a mere generation ago, would have been laughed off the stage now think they have the upper hand.
I have faith in actual Americans being just ornery enough....
I do not doubt the truth of your story in the least.