"Working in a smoke-free environment just helps everyone get along better. And clean air equals better food," said Jeff Cerra, general manager of Kooma on West Gay Street, where the gathering was held.

Workers also expressed concern that second-hand smoke may endanger their health.

We agree.

These bans are slowly creeping across the United States. A ban by local ordinance is not allowed by state law.

As usual, you can expect the state Legislature to be behind the curve on something as progressive as this.

But that does not mean local restaurants can’t take the lead. They should just put out signs saying: "Thank you for not smoking."

The Clean Air Council, which is boosting the ban, states on its Web site that a "free market approach" will not work.

We disagree.

There are more nonsmokers than smokers these days, and the ranks are rising.

Nonsmokers are increasingly speaking out in public spaces against smoking. And winning.

We do not believe any "fine" dining establishment will have a decline in business because of a smoking ban.

There is even a compromise approach.

In West Chester, and many other places, restaurants turn into bars with entertainment after a certain hour, say 10 p.m.

Now you are talking the night life crowd.

They are generally more tolerant. We are not talking about sitting down and enjoying a quiet meal.

We are talking people out for a good time.

Smoking here seems reasonable.

Unfortunately for smokers, the tide seems to be turning against them these days.

More studies come out every day indicating the dangers of second-hand smoke.

So it’s not likely that they are going to get much support or sympathy.

It sounds like a business issue to us.

Cater to those who want to enjoy a meal smoke-free and figure a way to keep the smokers happy as well.

We’ve previously suggested smoke-free nights as possible solutions.

There are solutions out there. The business owners just need to work it out and be prepared to deal with trial and error.