Thursday, April 26, 2007

SMOKE 'EM IF YOU GOT 'EM AND HAVE A TENT


Minnesota was the first state to pass a Clean Indoor Air Act years ago. This imposed the first restrictions on smoking in public places. Restaurants initially had to split the space proportionally between smoking and non-smoking areas. Over the years, this has been adapted nationally with more and more restrictions. Smokers are in a minority and the opposition has sponsored bills to totally ban smoking in bars and public places and even jails. The goal is probably to ban smoking entirely. One suburban community bans smoking in it's outdoor parks. Many employers, including my former jobsite, ban smoking on their property even if you are sitting in your car in their parking lot. We do demonize tobacco.
Today's St. Paul paper carries a story of numerous bars erecting smoking tents to accomodate smokers. This is Minnesota and it might get cold again someday. Arnold, Governator of Caleefornia, has a smoking tent where he enjoys stogies. How long will it be before the anti-smoking lobby wants half of that space? I wonder about the type of tent they are using. Wouldn't a Native American Wigwam work? Doesn't it have a hole at the top to chimney the smoke out? I am a former smoker and do not like smoking, but I am content to let them have their tent unless the band follows them out there and they have all the fun.
It has been two weeks since my husband quit smoking. He is using the newest drug Chantix. If he stays off the weed, I am going to write to that company and offer his services to do a testimonial. He has tried repeatedly since Nicorette gum was introduced in the early 90's to quit smoking. Wish him luck. I don't think he will be free of cigarettes until he can look at one and say "Oh, ish".

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