On July 24, the Town of Surfside Beach passed a ban on smoking that will take effect on October 1st of this year. The ban will prohibit smoking in all public buildings, thirty feet from building entrances, on beaches, beach walkovers, and in recreational facilities and parks.

The smoking ban has been a hot topic in the Myrtle Beach area, and has polarized those discussing the issue. Already a number of online posts have been popping up from people who say they are going to stay in Surfside on their next trip to the Grand Strand specifically because of the ban. However, local business owners and others are very unhappy about the ban and presented a petition to the Town Council last week with over 600 signatures opposing the ban. They are afraid they will lose business to surrounding areas that allow smoking in bars and restaurants.

I can see both points of view. But I for one would welcome a ban on smoking in Myrtle Beach. I am tired of going out to dinner or to the bars with my wife and friends and coming home smelling like an ash tray.