Many bar owners around the state have complained that their business was hurt by the statewide smoking ban. So what would happen with a swearing ban in bars?

They're discussing just that these days in Nevis, pop. 364, located between Brainerd and Bemidji in northern Minnesota, and home of the World's Largest Tiger Muskie.

The Nevis City Council discussed last week whether it was wise or necessary to enforce an existing ordinance on respectful behavior -- and in effect, ban some swearing -- at the city's municipal liquor store and bar, according to the Bemidji Pioneer

Said the paper: “The council is taking aim at use of the F-word; it’s become a point of contention late at night when the booze is flowing and the tongues get loosened up. Patrons disagree over whether it’s a matter of free expression clashing with family values, or it’s just plain wrong to characterize the issue as that.”

“I think it got blown out of proportion,” said Nevis resident Russ Hensel. “We might accidentally say something during a game of pool but I don’t go on a tirade and swear across the bar.”

“It’s not free speech if it’s offensive,” snapped barmaid Barb Hanson, who admittedly is fed up with the late night blue hue the bar takes on.