(This was written by a dear friend of mine when her town was debating a smoking prohibition. She gathered up her friends and co-workers and they all converged on the council for the 'debate.' The debate was short lived, the proposal was tabled, and Brenda is ready for the next go-round, which WILL come. Antis don't like to be confronted by the people...particularly not by the people. Posted here with her permission and blessing.)

Dear Council:

My name is Brenda Mackey and I'm a waitress.

I've worked in restaurants and bars for nearly 21 years, most of them allowed smoking. I've raised three children and now have two in college for which I'm paying with my salary and tips.

My experience tells me several things: 1) Smokers tip better than nonsmokers; 2) Smokers are easier to please than nonsmokers; 3) When smoking is banned, a lot of people quit coming in; 4) When smoking is banned, a lot of staff lose their jobs or have to take decreased hours.

I don't smoke and I've never felt I've been harmed by someone else's smoking; I haven't missed a day of work when I was supposed to be there in 14 years.  I've heard all the hype about shs and it doesn't ring true. It seems to me that what's happening is one bunch of people trying to tell another bunch what to do.

Please don't ban smoking everywhere and for everyone. You're helping us to death.

Sincerely,

Brenda Mackey