To the editor:

The clean air advocates and the Lawrence City Commission have violated the rights of many Americans just days before Independence Day. The ban on smoking in all public places violates my rights as an individual. Who appointed them to watch over everyone’s well-being?

They should look at other health risks such as the use of alcohol, accident statistics and risks while operating or riding in a vehicle. Do they ban the use of alcohol next? (Wasn’t that tried once?) Do they ban the operation of vehicles next? Life is full of risks and dangers. We are at risk every day we venture through life’s journey.

Whether I smoke or not doesn’t matter; you took away one of my rights. My right to make choices, good or bad choices, doesn’t matter; my right to choose does. Many of you protested and demonstrated during your youth for individual rights. Now you take them away. Not real strong on convictions are you?

Don Cole,

Lawrence