Outdoor smoking ban

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I read with interest the article in a newsletter that I receive about the banning of smoking outdoors law that was recently passed in Oregon. The author made some valid points about our steadily growing loss of freedom in America. First it was the banning of smoking indoors at public places. Most states now have such a law. I know that many of you are anti-smoking, but this is ridiculous! Just remember, they won't stop at taking away your freedom to smoke! We have already lost countless other freedoms. Here is an excerpt from the article: Outside now a non-smoking area at some restaurants Personal freedoms continue to die throughout our country. Smoking has already been banned in most restaurants and bars, but now there's a new public ordinance in Maine that will take the smoking ban outside. The ban, which goes into effect in October, prohibits smoking on the OUTSIDE patios and decks at restaurants and bars before 10 p.m. I know what you're thinking: Oh, come on Dr. D, lighten up! Uh-huh. Right. And exactly how many times have you ever seen one of these bans retracted rather than expanded? How about never? Once they're taken away, personal freedoms are rarely restored. The City of Portland originally banned smoking inside bars back in 2004; it only took the freedom-hating do-gooders four years to go after the right of people to smoke outside. And trust me, it will get worse. This don't-smoke-outside-before-10 p.m law is Portland's second smoking restriction law to be passed in a month. Last month, the city outlawed smoking within 20 feet of playgrounds, public beaches, and athletic facilities. How long before 20 feet becomes "everywhere in Portland?" Talk to me in 2012 … Lit up about smoking bans, William Campbell Douglass II, M.D.