Daddy

For the "sometimes you can't win" file: Some of the bars in Franklin have a special liquor license that allows customers to buy a closed container of alcohol inside and then take it outside to drink. More people than ever are apparently taking advantage of this ability since the city's smoking ban went into effect earlier this summer. And -- surprise, surprise -- this doesn't please some people:

FRANKLIN, Ind. (Daily Journal) - Chuck Walker wants to be able to walk with his wife and 7-year-old child down Jefferson Street to admire historic buildings in downtown Franklin.

But there's one thing that he doesn't want to include on his tour: People sitting in front of bars with a beer in their hands.

"I think it's terrible, and I think that for our kids, it's an influence to them," Walker said. "It's like, 'OK, that's cool.' "

Well, you know what, Chuck? It is OK. It is cool. Adults may indulge in a beer if they choose, even outside, even (gasp!) in front of your child. Bet you were one of the people who pushed for the smoking ban in the first place, huh? Well, deal with it. If you can't convey to your child the difference between what adults can do and what children may do, you've got bigger problems than a few alfresco imbibers. Better just lock that lad up in his bedroom so he isn't contaminated by the world.