In places like New York City and most of California, the nanny state is alive and well with local ordinances popping up like posies aimed at protecting us from ourselves.
The anti-smoking laws have become downright Draconian in those places along with new targets such as sugar and trans fat and even toys in happy meals. Well it was only a matter of time, I guess, before the silliness showed up here.
Cleveland City Councilman Joseph Cimperman is the cultural crusaders' newest hero. He introduced legislation in Cleveland this week to prohibit smoking outdoors at city parks, downtown malls and public square. And not to be outdone by fellow finger waggers in Hollywood or the Big Apple...Cimperman also proposes to ban trans fats at local restaurants and bakeries.
But what we have here is a continuing assault on personal liberties by people who believe they know what's best for the rest of us. But with teachers being laid off, a weak economy and high unemployment, you'd think our civic leaders would devote themselves to something less silly.
Write and let me know what you think. I'm Bill Applegate.
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