Reader Feedback: Smoking on the Beach and a Vacant Rite Aid

Beach Butts

On Monday, we asked if you in public places like beaches and parks. New York State's recent ban affects beaches like Jones Beach, but town and village-run facilities have differing levels of regulation around outdoor smoking.

The topic ignited some strong opinions, with most commenters in favor of increased policing of smoking in beaches and parks. Many readers commented about the litter of cigarette butts, and other noted they disliked the smell.

Dae said, "I'm an ex-smoker. I HATE that I have to smell smoke at the beach with my kids, at the outlets, etc. If they must smoke make areas in the parking lots smoking areas. Even when I did smoke I NEVER smoked on the beach."

Another reader thought the beach was big enough to accommodate both smokers and non-smokers: Melinda Sirianni wrote "I understand parks that are small and have many encounters with other people, but the ocean has a vast beach, if you don't like that someone is smoking, move, as it is their right to smoke there."

But Dina disagreed: "Smoking should be banned in public. It is an infringement of MY rights...second and third hand smoke can kill."

Empty Pharmacy

Our latest featured the closed Rite Aid on Little East Neck Road. The large store has been empty since last winter. Once again, Babylon Patch readers had a range of ideas for an ideal business to fill the space.

Readers seeking a nearby Trader Joe's once again hoped the chain would consider the Babylon area. Five commenters on Facebook mentioned Trader Joe's, but another commenter dissented.

"Trader Joe's or Whole Foods would turn that section of Little East Neck Road into a traffic disaster. There are more than enough grocery stores, bakeries, butchers, etc. in the area to get whatever you need," wrote Marisa Eschmann.

Janet Reeves wanted to see another pharmacy come in: "Another Rite Aid, or CVS, or Duane Reed, or something that has nice greeting cards and no lines for the lotto."

Other votes were for: an ice skating rink, an Old Country Buffet, a taco eatery, a roller rink, and Fairway.

Which commenter had the best idea? Vote in our poll or leave your own opinion in a comment.