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New relationships between smoking and health problems appear almost every month. The Food and Drug Administration is quick to ban anything that can cause major health problems. Cigarettes
are the only thing that, when “used as directed,” are known to kill thousands of people every year. The evidence is now undeniable, and for that reason it is essential that Simi Valley join
the other concerned, health-conscious areas of California that are now banning smoking in restaurants and public places. Considering the well-organized opposition, it will be difficult. But
I trust that Simi Valley will be able to put the public’s welfare above the influence of the well-financed special-interest groups that are clearly putting personal profit above social
responsibility. Ron Whittaker Simi Valley * _ The Ventura County Edition of The Times welcomes the views of readers. Letters should be as brief as possible and are subject to condensation.
They must include signature, valid mailing address and telephone number. Pseudonyms and initials will not be used. Send letters to: Ventura County Editor, Los Angeles Times, 5200 Valentine
Road, Suite 140, Ventura 93003. _ MORE TO READ