Z g Citizen -- Tuesday, Rebruary 10, 1960 7 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Anti-smoke by-law to protect people To The Editor: The Regional Model By-law Regulating Smoking in Public Places is not an anti-smoking by-law, it is an anti-smoke by- law. The by-law was developed to protect people from the adverse health effects of envir tal ( d-hand tobacco smoke. These i Tud According to the research, there is no evidence to support the claim that this type of legislation affects the economic viability of any business other than those directly involved in the production or ale of tobacco products. In fact, studies indicate that tob control policies do not consideration along with: . - the majority of people do not smoke, and - a 1990 Durham survey. showed that the majority of people (smokers and non- smokers) already supported .that smoking in public places either be banned or restricted lung cancer; heart disease; respiratory disease; aggravation of asthma, allergies, angina; and harm to the fetus. It is not intended to put smokers under attack. The health perspective of this kind 'of legislation addresses the control of harmful chemical negatively affect business or industry. This is based on studies in California, Winnipeg and Peterborough and there is every reason to believe Durham Region would experience similar results. These studies showed that not only did the regulations not affect busi significantly, substances. Individuals have the choice to smoke if they want. What the by-law does is to regulate the public areas where they may smoke to help keep the hazard away from people who choose not to take « the risk. What, if any, effect will the proposed by-law have on business in the community? The best indicator we have is what has happened in municipalities that already have a by-law-similar to the model. Restaurants are a good example. but that the majority of proprietors supported increased restrictions. Tables for non-smokers tend to turn over more quickly, thus increasing business for restaurateurs. They also save money in cleaning costs - ashtrays, walls, light fixtures, drapes, replacing or repairing burn marks in furniture or carpets. Air Canada has saved $700,000 a year since their flights became smoke-free due to cleaning costs alone. When you take that into to designats king areas, the 'statistics appear to demonstrate that business will not decline if legislation regulating smoking in public places is enacted. The Health Department is receiving a steady stream of calls of support for the by-law. We do encourage people to call or write their local municipalities with their feedback. Expressed public support is vital when dealing with this issue. For more information, interested individuals may contact Sandra Schmidt at the Health Department at (416) 723-85218incerely, Sandra Schmidt Public Health Nurse Tobacco Use Prevention Caesarea Community Hall To The Editor: For roughly a year I have lived with the trials and tribulations of the Caesarea Community Hall. No, I don't run it nor have I participated directly in monthly meetings but that is about to change. My wife, Laurie Ellis, is the current president of the executive. Laurie was just recently. re-elected for a second term. I assume that the committee has complete confidence in her and her abilities otherwise Laurie would not have been returned to the president's chair. On a regular basis, the executive Laurie, Michelle Gettins, Helen ' Sobczak, On Feb. 22 Branch 419 Legion will again be filled with the roar of Kub Kars for the week. This is a week of fun and learning with the Cubs designing, building and painting kars made out of a piece of pine wood. Cubs from neighbouring communities of Uxbridge, Cannington, Seagrave, Greenbank, Cartwright, Scugog Island, Goodwood, Manchester and Port Perry will be competing for speed and design trophies. This will Cubs get ready to start engines be the start of the Annual Pine Ridge District Kub Kar Races. Approximately 160 kars are entered with District Finals taking place on Sun. Feb. 28. On Sat. Evening approximately 50, 18 wheeler trucks built by scouts, leaders and parents will compete racing and design judging. This year we have again accepted the challenge from Udora Scouts. This is a week of fun for the youth, leaders and parents. ' Stewart UNBELIEVABLE SAVINGS! FINAL PRICE CUTS HAVE BEEN MADE! Closing Sat., Feb. 20th at 5:30 PM All Remaining Jeans ... NOW $19.95 (small sizes only) Some Spring Fashions Still Available! (Cash Only All Sales Final Northern Clothing Co. 227 Queen St. - Port Perry 985-0154 Monica Stevenson, and 'Beth have to make decisions for the benefit of the hall and the community. Some of the decisions are not easy nor are they popular. However in the past day or " two it has circulated that there is an organized movement of parents wishing to confront the executive on policies regarding the youth group that is currently holding youth dances. ! I feel that it is everyone's right to have questions answered and concerns answered or voiced. That in the least I would expect if I were in your shoes. But I feel that in addition to these rights you should also turn inward and realize that there are rules and accountability for all groups and individuals that rent the hall. In this case with the youth group as responsible parents don't you wonder what goes on? Decisions made by the youth council are decisions that they have to live with. They chose to break away from the Caesarea Hall board. Why has not really been addressed. Maybe as parents we should all be concerned. There have been a number of discrepancies that have not been ironed out regarding the youth council. Why? it's about time all cards were on the table. It's time to put all concerns to rest so that this nagging weekly bout 'is finished once and for all. How about the youth council be responsible and accountable for their actions. They wanted to be grown up so let's see it. Parents, whether you agree or disagree speak up and be heard. Caesarea hall board listen, learn and discover, then set policies. which will stand and not be deviated from.. And finally councillor Mr. David Dietlin, please come prepared to answer questions and support policies that will come forth from the next meeting. Do I care about the youth of this community and surrounding areas? You can bet your last dollar on it. I love kids, they are great. I support anything regarding the youth including the dances. I emphatically pushed for the dances. My only wish is that all the problems be put to rest once and for all. I know it sure would make this house a quieter place to live. Thanks; John Ellis Caesarea, Ont. CEBRERO & KING 235 Queen Street, Port Perry 985-3622 FINAL WETS We will be Closing our Doors for Good ... THIS SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21st! Come in today and SAVE up to 70%! Everything must Go! Everything is on Sale!