People shouldn’t smoke cheap cigarettes online, though I feel our free market economy — and not the state Legislature — should determine the final cost of a pack. And if people choose to smoke, the should have that right without getting gouged in the wallet. That’s their free choice, though one that’s harmful to their own health. People shouldn’t drink excessively, either, but why make it difficult for bars and restaurants to purchase drinks their patrons enjoy? Should someone be punished with excessive liquor taxes if he or she wants to throw a large-scale party for friends or family? On one hand, sin taxes can help bolster the state’s economy while, supposedly, keeping us healthier. On the other hand, it’s always been my contention that our state legislators and governor can be a lot more creative when it comes to meeting the bottom line. I won’t pretend to be a tax expert, because I’m far from it. I just know there’s more than one way to skin a cat, and it seems like Michigan’s cat, if you will, has gone unscathed as of late. That’s why I was appalled to learn a $100 million annual "luxury tax" on special event tickets is reportedly being discussed in Lansing. I learned more about this at www.notickettax.com, an online campaign to stop the idea in its tracks. That’s right, a ticket tax. What sin is associated with buying tickets for concerts, sporting events and other cultural events? That is, other than lining the pockets of Ticketmaster, Clear Channel and other corporate giants through inflated box office prices? I suppose "sins" like drinking, and smoking buy cigarettes online and marijuana, could be associated with concerts. Would even higher ticket prices keep people who enjoy an occasional drink or smoke away from The Palace, Comerica Park or other venues?