Gun-free dining in Tennesee

[daybranch]

7. Paranoia reigns

As a former restaurant owner I recognize you as the ideal customer to be rid of. Year ago before smoking bans were so much in vogue, I declared my restaurant smoke free because of health concerns to my employees. I was a smoker myself at that time. Many people like you ranted about their rights being taken away and told me how I would lose business. Exactly the opposite was true. For every smoker I lost, I got 4 or more people who wanted to eat without smoke. I am absolutely sure that parents, children, young people, and most old people do not want to feel the person they have to share space with is carrying a gun. I am sure it intimidates them, and at a minimum makees them uncomfortable. But heck, I do not want to take away your gun, I just wish you and the paranoia that drives you to carry it in public places would stay at home. Do not worry, we patrons without guns are not terrorists, we are not thieves wanting to steal everything you have, you are safe with us. We just do not feel safe with you when you are armed.