Smoky Bangor bingo

I am a nonsmoker and I love to play bingo! Most bingo halls where smoking is allowed have adequate nonsmoking areas, good exhaust systems and the smoking areas are well-separated from the nonsmoking areas. However, this is not the case at the VFW Post 1761 building on Hammond Street.

This hall shows total disregard for nonsmokers. Smokers have almost the entire hall except for one table and half of another. We, along with the post commander, have tried to negotiate with the people who run the games to make the other half table nonsmoking, but to no avail. The only reaction we get from them is, “This table has always been a no smoking table.”

In light of all the information we now have on the hazards of smoking and secondhand smoke, we must change this rationale. Two entire tables would act as a buffer zone against smoking blowing directly in your face. It is ridiculous to put smokers and nonsmokers at the same table.

I’ve heard their argument, “If you don’t smoke, stay home.” I don’t want to stay home. All we ask for is a small corner of the hall where nonsmokers can sit and enjoy the games without smoke in their faces. How about it, Bob Phillips, Bingo chairman? Carol Schiller Bangor