Our Word: Smoke-free a good plan

Chicago does it. Springfield does it. Even Champaign does it. So let's do it - let's go smoke free.

Would little tables outside bars perpetuate the Strip's infamous image as an unhealthy, dangerous place? No.

Actually, it would make Carbondale seem more entertaining. Sidewalk tables would add a bit of class to this little college town. Not to mention the inadvertent business it would drum up as passersby see friends and colleagues outside their favorite establishment.

And best of all, the patrons inside would be able to have a few drinks or listen to one of Carbondale's talented local bands without going home reeking of smoke. Business wouldn't be lost. It would boom.

Most of Carbondale's restaurants and bars already have the setup - outside decks. If not, outside tables would be easy to implement. Add heaters for the winter and a shelter from the rain and everybody would be happy.

But these are just ideas to improve the image of the Strip. The major reason to nix indoor smoking is health.

Let's face it - cigarette smoke is unhealthy. Secondhand smoke, it is said, is worse. After a long night at the bar, we have a hard time breathing the next morning. What can be said for the employees who spend every night in a toxic environment?

In January 1999, a study in the British Medical Journal reported the effects on smoky and smoke-free bars by observing 53 bartenders. The journal reported wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath as symptoms of bartenders' exposure to cigarettes.

Two months after a smoking ban, the symptoms vanished.

A support of the smoking ban is a support of Carbondale business, health and prosperity. Carbondale is a progressive college town, full of progressive college students, professors and residents.

It's time for Carbondale's leadership to recognize the changing times and make a progressive move to support the members of this community.