[Gabz]

I remember when the bans were going in piecemeal in towns around here; the biggest cry was for a level playing field.

You can not imagine just how much I DESPISE that term. The only level playing field is a free market, especially in th hospitality industry.

If there was a true level playing field all restaurants would have the same menues and same prices and all bars would serve the same beverages.

I can see the buffet table now.........BBQ ribs next falafel next to sushi next fried chicken next to kosher hot dogs next to lasagna next to sushi next to burritos...........etc, etc, etc....

Or walk into a bar and ask the bartender what he has on draft "Sorry, no draft, the guy down the street can't fit the equipment in, so no one is allowed to have draft."

THAT is a "level playing field" if that is what they desire by FORCING all establishments to cater to one set of people - the anti smokers.

[swarthyguy]

Since I’m venting, what does get my goat is the submissive, guilty attitude adopted by many habitues - it’s good we get to go outside and shuffle around, surreptitiously indulging, there’s no need to partake inside, etc.

Welcoming the secondclass citizen status foisted upon us. Accepting the ostracization and stigmatization.

Certainly not the attitude shown during Prohibition.