To the editor:

Yes, “health risks exist for nonsmokers (like Donald Phipps) who patronize our local bar scene” (J-W Feb. 6). Not the alleged risks from secondhand smoke, but the real danger of permanent hearing loss. If our city fathers and mothers want to do something about health risks in bars, they should start by lowering the noise levels to OSHA standards. How nice it would be to walk into a bar and enjoy the smoke without having my ears blasted.

Mr. Phipps wants the city commission to “develop nonsmoking ordinances that would allow those of us who don’t smoke to enjoy…” No new ordinances are needed; nonsmoking bars are already allowed. If Mr. Phipps thinks Lawrence needs a nonsmoking bar, he should open one himself and get rich. I might even patronize it, if he keeps the sound turned down.

Fred Galvin,

Lawrence