You state that a smoker receiving a nickel may not be enough to encourage them to get on the redemption wagon. I say otherwise. I think they are very likely to go “butt hunting” (sounds good doesn’t it?). I don’t have the statistics but I can guarantee you that a certain percentage of Americans die each year as a result of a disagreement over, or the commission of a crime to obtain, cigarettes. I have seen way too many smokers in my time and the desperation they exhibit to think that a nickel won’t entice them to tuck their discarded fags away for a future payday. How does one explain the homeless searching ashtrays for partially smoked, discarded butts? How does one explain those who appear to be “normal” standing in below zero degree weather to get a hit of tar? I think you greatly underestimate smokers’ desperation and I nominate you to push forward the redemption program called “Butts for Cash,” not to be confused, or compete with any established local escort service.

My other comment speaks to any wonderment that one may have as to how a smoker can brazenly litter with their discarded “ball and chains.” Given that they have no qualms about blowing their filth into your direction and violating your freedom to avoid such, is anything else they do a surprise? They are in large selfish, ignorant people who deserve what they have coming to them when our local politicians finally get their heads out of their bar-owner constituents’ asses.

And by the way, SJ-R letter writer, and bar-owner Scott Hankin is an idiot.

Someone had to say it.