We really have to protest the smoking ban of Jan. 1. Yes, we are smokers. As of this moment we can only smoke in our homes or vehicles. We expect those havens to be taken away shortly. Everywhere else we have to go outside. This is better for our health? How? It is 30 below out there.

As for the nonsmoking patrons and/or employees who have apparently suffered for years inhaling the deadly secondhand smoke, why didn’t you go to Pat’s, Gov’s, Tang’s, Ruby’s or one of the many hotel dinning rooms? You could have still had a decent drink and/or made your money. All those places were smoke-free before Jan. 1.

The smoking ban has affected our businesses. Why didn’t the law allow for the tavern licenses to expire first? We know one woman who had paid until March, but can’t smoke now. Does she get a refund? She didn’t get a vote.

Taverns and pool halls are noticing a decrease. Did we really need to lose more business in northern Maine? We decided to just open our own private club, since they are still “in the land of the free.” Smokers only, please.

Jennifer St. Peter

Nancy Ann Wilson

New Sweden