Musicians+Music Lovers for Smoke Free Listening

HB2267 Restore Local Rights 2012

2012-01-27T12:37:00.001-08:00

RESTORE LOCAL RIGHTS FOR OKLAHOMA CITIES

Allow cities the right to decide to havesmoke-free public places to compete for new business and jobs, to reduce healthcare costs and tax burden, and to protect their citizens from secondhand smoke.

HB 2267 does NOT allow cities to regulate where or how tobacco is marketed, sold, or taxed.
HB 2267 does NOT make businesses smoke-free, it only lets cities and their citizens discuss what they want for their city.

HB 2267 WILL allow cities theopportunity to compete for new businesses with a healthier workforce.

Cities in Oklahoma are competing with cities in other states for new businesses and jobs.
Smoking costs Oklahoma businesses over $1.73 Billion each year for health related illness and lost productivity. (Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids - www.tobaccofreekids.org)

HB 2267 WILL allow cities to decide if they want to reduce healthcare costs for Oklahomans.

Oklahoma pays $1.16 Billion in support of health care for tobacco related illnesses. (Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids- www.tobaccofreekids.org)
Every Oklahoma household pays $553 in state and federal taxes due to smoking related illnesses. (Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids – www.tobaccofreekids.org)
Reducing tobacco use among workers:

- generatesfinancial returns from reduced health care costs;

- increaseson-the-job productivity;

- reduceslife and health insurance costs;

- createsa healthier workforce which helps Oklahoma compete for business.

HB 2267 WILL allow cities theopportunity to protect their citizens from secondhand smoke.

· Thereis no safe level of secondhand smoke. (Surgeon General’sReport 2006)

· Ventilation doesn’t work. [American Society ofHeating, Refrigeration, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE); OU Indoor Air Quality Report; American CancerSociety]

2011-08-10T07:20:00.000-07:00

Hey, those of you who love to listen to music in an always smoke free, intimate environment should check out http://houseconcertsunlimited.com Many concerts are held in our own home, larger ones head to the legendary Church Studio, former Tractors and Leon Russel studio.

Smoke free music venues

2011-08-10T07:18:00.000-07:00

We have been enjoying several music venues lately that are smoke free. Fassler Hall, in downtown Tulsa and the legendary ( and legendary for both music and smoke ) Colony on Harvard. What a pleasure to be able to listen without burning eyes, smelly clothes and for my husband, NO HEADACHE ! Thanks for caring about your employees, patrons and musicians! Kudos!

Recent letter to the editor

2010-03-04T06:05:00.000-08:00

Letter to the editor: Clear the air

By Margaret Aycock, Tulsa

Published: 2/28/2010 5:21 AM

Last Modified: 2/28/2010 5:21 AM

The danger from breathing second-hand smoke is such common knowledge that most elementary children are aware of it. Are we not smarter than a fifth-grader?

The Oklahoma Tobacco Research Center recently completed a study that shows the air in our bars and clubs is "extremely hazardous and far exceeds Environmental Protection Agency air quality standards." Must we wait until complaints are called into the EPA and entire businesses are closed before our legislators mandate clean air in all workplaces?

It is troubling to me that the tobacco lobby and restaurant association lobby have more sway with legislators than health organizations that are begging for smoke-free legislation. Legislators tell me that some restaurants and bar owners who spent money to install separate smoking rooms and ventilation feel that it is an unfair burden on them. Are our legislators worried about looking bad? "Oops, we were wrong about those smoking rooms being a good idea."

Smoking must be discontinued in the workplace even though someone invested in ventilation or a new room. Remember, they still get to keep the rooms, and new studies show that ventilation is just not good enough to clear the air of carcinogens.

As far as having a negative impact on business is concerned, the figures prove otherwise in states and countries where similar laws were enacted.

We need legislation that will protect both workers and patrons and we need it now.

Feel free to go to tulsaworld.com and type in margaret aycock, follow the thread to this letter and post your own comments to the world

Smoke free on Face Book

2010-02-18T06:45:00.000-08:00

Check out and become a member of Musicians for Smoke Free Oklahoma on facebook
You may have to type in smoke free oklahoma to get there as I can't seem to figure out how to cut and paste today. This is a great group and they have the support of the American Heart Association. Join and continue to keep the cause in your legislators' face.

Article in Recent Tulsa World

2010-02-18T06:21:00.001-08:00

Smoke hazardous in restaurants, bars

The levels exceed EPA air-quality standards, a study finds.

By SUSAN SIMPSON NewsOK.com

Published: 2/13/2010 2:27 AM

Last Modified: 2/13/2010 5:27 AM

OKLAHOMA CITY — Tobacco smoke pollution in Oklahoma City-area restaurants and bars is extremely hazardous and far exceeds Environmental Protection Agency air quality standards, according to a report released by the Oklahoma Tobacco Research Center at the OU Cancer Institute.

The center looked at tobacco smoke levels in 67 Oklahoma City-area restaurant smoking rooms and bars and found that even restaurants with smoke ventilators had pollution levels harmful to workers and patrons.

The smoke was measured as particulate pollution, which the EPA ranks as hazardous at levels of 151-250 micrograms per cubic meter of air. The particulate level averaged 380 micrograms in restaurant smoking rooms tested by the center, and it measured 655 micrograms in bars.

Dr. Robert McCaffree, co-director of the tobacco center, said researchers knew secondhand smoke was hazardous but were surprised pollution levels were so high

Read more from this Tulsa World article at http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?subjectid=17&articleid=20100213_17_A19_OKLAHO513454&archive=yes

Letter from Senator Coburn... check out the highlighed part..... Personally as a practicing physician he could vote to protect all people, not just the ones who happen to drop by his office!

2009-05-05T07:10:00.000-07:00

May 5, 2009

Mrs. Margee Aycock
1135 N. Denver
Tulsa, Oklahoma 74106-4647

Dear Mrs. Aycock,

Thank you for your email regarding clean energy and smoking in public places. It is good to hear from you.

Like you, I believe we must move towards other forms of American energy such as solar and wind energy as you suggested. I am supportive of efforts to further develop all available renewable resources. However, we must allow the markets to work, so that consumers can pick the source that best matches their needs. I believe we boost energy development and new technological development the most when we reduce taxes for all Americans and eliminate unnecessary regulations that stand in the way of progress. I will continue my efforts towards this end.

Oklahoma is fast becoming a leader in alternative sources of energy. According to the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, our state ranks ninth nationally in total existing wind energy generation and we are about to leapfrog near the front of that ranking. Wind energy is Oklahoma's primary alternative energy source and currently operates 689 wind turbines. Hydro power and the development of agrifuels also hold great potential. There is no reason why we should not be leading the nation in alternative energy production. I am encouraged to hear of developments in solar technology, and am hopeful it will one day become a cost-efficient alternative to traditional energy sources.

I am particularly encouraged by the large scale development of wind power. For it to continue, our state will have to aggressively embark on an expansion new transmission capacity just as you suggested, and I am encouraged that Oklahoma regulators have moved forward with a large transmission project connecting promising wind fields in the panhandle to the interior of our state. Where appropriate, I will continue to push for a streamlining of federal regulations that often slow or kill such development. I will also oppose legislation that places barriers in the way of new transmission development-something Congress is prone to do.

You may be interested to know, the Senate recently passed the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009 (H.R. 146). Among other things, this bill will remove over three million acres in the United States from energy development - both traditional and renewable. I adamantly opposed this bill and, in fact, I offered an amendment that would have eliminated all restrictions on the development of renewable energy including geothermal, wind, solar, biomass and related infrastructure. Unfortunately, this amendment failed, because short-sighted members of Congress care more about their political careers than what is in the best interests of the nation. Please know I will continue to fight for a common sense energy policy that will provide for the energy needs of future generations.

With respect to your comments on nuclear energy, you should know I believe rather strongly that nuclear power is one of the safest, cleanest sources of power in the world. Nuclear power is now providing about 20 percent of America's electricity, with no air pollution or "greenhouse gas" emissions. It has been successfully used for decades in America and in France, where nuclear reactors produce 78 percent of all electricity. Unlike France, however, our nuclear waste will be recycled without separating plutonium - ensuring increased nuclear energy production is consistent with the Energy Department program's goal of non-proliferation.

Unfortunately, since the 1970s, more than 35 plants were stopped at various stages of planning and construction because of bureaucratic obstacles. Despite these difficulties, the Energy Policy Act of 2005 included several vehicles for progress including loan guarantees for advanced nuclear reactors and standby support framework for new nuclear power plant construction to protect against regulatory or judicial delays for six reactors. Nevertheless, nuclear power still faces significant obstacles, and I will continue to support efforts to streamline the licensing process.

I would encourage you to contact your state representatives on the topic of nuclear reactors in our state. They may be reached at:

State Senator Judy Eason McIntyre State Representative Jabar Shumate
2300 North Lincoln Boulevard, Room 527B 2300 North Lincoln Boulevard, Room 510
Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105
Phone: (405) 521-5598 Phone: (405) 557-7406
E-mail: easonmcintyre@oksenate.gov E-mail: jabarshumate@okhouse.gov

Furthermore, as a practicing physician, I agree with you smoking is hazardous to the health of smokers and those around them. As a result, I have a no-smoking policy in my office. I also agree it is important to help young people resist a lifetime addiction that will invariably harm their health and likely shorten their life. I believe that government can assist in achieving this goal by promoting healthy lifestyles and better enforcing current tobacco laws.

Thank you again for contacting me on these topics. I look forward to hearing from you in the future.

Sincerely, A
Tom A. Coburn, M.D.
United States Senator

Deadly cost of smoking in Oklahoma

2009-04-23T06:18:00.001-07:00

Deadly cost of smoking in Oklahoma

IMPACT
Gary Raskob and Ken Lackey: A smoking prevalence of almost one in four Oklahomans is still too high.

By GARY RASKOB AND KEN LACKEY
Published: 4/23/2009 2:26 AM
Last Modified: 4/23/2009 4:09 AM

New numbers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show the deadly impact of cigarette smoking in Oklahoma.

When the period of 2000-2004 is compared to 1996-1999, Oklahoma is the only state that failed to see a decrease in smoking-attributable mortality — the deaths caused by smoking. In fact, Oklahoma had an increase of 26.9 deaths per 100,000 people. Women in our state do worse than men, with twice as many smoking-related deaths.

Cigarette smoking causes an estimated 443,000 premature deaths each year in this country, with 6,209 of these deaths in Oklahoma. That's 85,208 years of potential life lost by Oklahomans. The direct health-care and productivity losses caused by cigarette smoking are staggering: $193 billion each year nationwide, and more than $2 billion in Oklahoma.

The tobacco companies continue aggressive efforts to help ensure a steady stream of new smokers. Their marketing spending topped $13 billion in 2005, nearly double their spending of a decade earlier and almost twice the entire budget for the CDC.

Some important strides have been taken in the right direction. The voter-approved state tobacco tax increase that took effect in 2005 has begun to have an impact, with the prevalence of smoking declining from 26.1 percent of Oklahomans in 2004 to 24.7 percent in 2008.

Private business has also shown leadership, with many providing positive incentives for their employees to quit smoking. The business community understands that a healthier workforce

leads to reduced health-care and workers compensation costs and higher worker productivity.

However, a smoking prevalence of almost one in four Oklahomans is still too high — more than double the CDC's Healthy People 2010 goal. It is time for us to pledge to do more!

Federal data for 1985 through 2003 show states with higher expenditures for tobacco-use prevention programs had greater reductions in adult smoking prevalence.

The non-partisan Institute of Medicine (IOM) concluded that substantial and enduring reductions in tobacco use depend on federal and state government steps to increase tobacco excise taxes, enact bans on smoking in public places, and increase health coverage for effective smoking cessation interventions. It called for full implementation of comprehensive tobacco prevention and cessation programs at CDC-recommended funding levels.

Oklahoma should heed the IOM recommendations, which are based on scientific evidence.

Strengthening tobacco use prevention will decrease unnecessary premature loss of life, lower health-care costs, and have a positive impact on business competitiveness for our state.

Gary Raskob, Ph.D., is dean of the College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Ken Lackey is chairman of the board of NORDAM. By GARY RASKOB AND KEN LACKEY

Call to action

2009-02-16T16:19:00.000-08:00

Powerful tobacco lobbyists are pressuring the State Senate to support smoking in Oklahoma restaurants and other public places. These special interest lobbyists don't care that exposure to secondhand smoke is a serious health hazard that causes heart attacks, heart disease, lung cancer and many respiratory disorders.

There is a bill on the agenda of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee next Thursday, February 19. The bill will create a smoke-free environment for all restaurants, bars, and indoor workplaces. The members of that committee need to hear from people who believe in smoke-free restaurants, bars and public places.

Call or email the members of the Senate Health and Human Services committee today!

Tell them "EVERY OKLAHOMAN DESERVES THE RIGHT TO BREATHE CLEAN AIR.".

Sen. Tom Adelson Democrat (405)521-5551 adelson@oksenate.gov

Sen. Sean Burrage Democrat (405)521-5555 burrage@oksenate.gov

Sen. Brian Crain Republican (405)521-5620 crain@oksenate.gov

Sen. Jim Halligan Republican (405)521-5572 halligan@oksenate.gov

Sen. Constance Johnson Democrat (405)521-5531 johnsonc@oksenate.gov

Sen. Clark Jolley Republican (405)521-5622 jolley@oksenate.gov

Sen. Dan Newberry Republican (405)521-5600 newberry@oksenate.gov

Sen. Jim Wilson Democrat (405)521-5574 wilson@oksenate.gov

Bill 1036 to Eliminate Smoking Rooms

2009-01-20T07:02:00.000-08:00

Sen. David Myers rides again. Thank you senator for your persistence on this issue. Although the Restaurant Association does not back this bill, we, who are tired of the laws that protect smokers rather than non smokers wish him well on getting this bill passed. The bill would faze out the smoking room in restaurants and would be one more step in the right direction towards eliminating smoke in bars across the state. Please encourage your senators to support bill 1036.

Study: Restaurants didn't take a hit with smoking law

2008-09-24T07:27:00.000-07:00

Maybe we are getting a little closer. To read the story in today's Tulsa World ( sept 24 ) click this link. http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?articleID=20080923_336_OKLA471802

Legendary Cains Ballroom Smoke Free!

2008-08-10T13:05:00.000-07:00

All I can say is Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!

The Cains Ballroom has had a history of leading the way in Oklahoma's diverse music scene. Well thank you Cains for taking the lead once again. If you haven't been out to hear music in a while and you haven't slipped on your dancing shoes for years because of smoke filled listening and dance venues, it is time to dust off the shoes and get back out there. Cains, and Bob's ( next door ) are now smoke free.

I had the pleasure of attending two events there in July. I heard many, many people expressing their sheer joy at being able to come out to listen and dance in a smoke free environment. Some hadn't been out to hear live music in years.

I encourage all of you to express that appreciation to the Cains Ballroom management both by your words and by your presence at your favorite music events at the Cains.

On the side bar you will see a short but growing list of other smoke free venues.

This is a Letter that My Brother RCVD from a Co Worker

2008-05-09T07:27:00.000-07:00

I have some bad news I need to share with you for a couple of reasons. I know you are a praying man, you brought me into this business, and I still intend to work it. I had my follow up meeting with my surgeon yesterday. I understand why I have been feeling so bad since early spring. I have cancer.

I will begin treatment in early June unless something gets really bad before then. They want to wait for me to heal from my last exploratory surgery before moving forward. They are going to start with something that won’t be fun, but is not too invasive.

The doc said the most likely reason I have this is due to second hand smoke for 10 years in clubs. How ironic—I always thought that was a scam.

My Day at the Capital

2008-03-05T15:39:00.000-08:00

Things I learned from my day at the capital

Not being much of a politician but being passionate about the safety of my children I headed out to OKC for lobby day at the capital today. I was joined there by many other volunteers from the American Cancer Society, American Lung Association, people from other health organizations, a bar owner and lots of just regular people like me who have been affected by second hand smoke or who have lost a loved one to cancers or heart disease brought on by smoking or breathing second hand smoke.

We spoke with a lot of Senators. A lot of the senators of course, are planning on voting for the bill ( SB1875) Thank you , Thank you , Thank you!

We also spoke with some senators who are planning on voting against this bill ( at this time ). What I found interesting was hearing from the ones who do not ( at this time ) support the bill it wasn’t because of the health issue. They all agreed that it was dangerous to be alive in that environment. Some had even lost loved ones themselves to cancer caused by smoking. These same senators stated as their reason for not supporting the bill was that they were concerned about the 2% of restaurants who put in smoking rooms costing on average $5000-$10,000. Apparently some of these senators felt that they had promised these restaurant owners that there would never be any law written that would get rid of smoking in all public establishments and somehow think they are honor bound to vote against this bill even given NEW INFORMATION that
1. The American Society of Heating , Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers ( ASHRAE ) the international body that sets the standards for indoor air quality, stated that ventilation “CANNOT ELIMINATE THE HEALTH DANGERS ASSOCIATED WITH SECONDHAND SMOKE” which means that even though those restaurants put in smoking rooms with ventilation, the ventilation will do no good to remove the dangerous chemicals that smokers will be exposed to nor will it protect those in the room next door as wait staff and patrons move between rooms.
2. Now that other states ( and entire countries ) have gone smoke free there is more information that addresses worries that business will suffer if smoke free is enforced. There have been NO studies that show this, instead there have been reports that business actually increased after smoke free laws were enacted. In NYC alone business increased by 8.7%. hmmmm at an 8.7% increase in profits how long would it take to recoup that $5,000 ventilation system?
3. Since we enacted smoke free restaurants or restaurants with separate smoking rooms we have also gotten new information from the surgeon general came out with their report on the dangers of being exposed to 2nd hand smoke. Here are some of the chemicals found in 2nd hand smoke and the cancers they cause:

Arsenic, benzo (a) pyrene, dadmium, nickel and NNK : lung cancer
Nitrosamines : cancer of lung, respiratory system and other organs
Aromatic amines: bladder and breast cancers
Formaldehyde and nickel: nasal cancer
Benzene: leukemia
Vinyl chloride: liver and brain cancer
2-napthalymine and 4 aminobiphenyl: bladder cancer
lead: liver cancer

OK so that is the newer information not that we really needed any of that to know that breathing 2nd hand smoke is dangerous and exposing any worker against his will to a dangerous substance is just plain wrong. So dear senators you may salvage your reputation given that when anyone recieves new information they are allowed a free pass to change their minds with no shame, no harm, no foul. There is no shame in changing your mind when given new information. The shame would be for you to exchange your perception about your reputation for our health.

I got up real early this morning and have probably had way too much coffee so I will get down off my soap box now and hope and pray that our senators do the right thing and that you all will keep writing and calling them so that they know that you care.

Just Rcvd this morning

Dear Advocates:

Good Morning!

Here is the latest news out of the Oklahoma State Capitol this morning. Senator Bass' bill that would prohibit the scanning of driver's licenses has passed the Senate and is now going to the House.

See the story below for more details. If you have any questions about this bill or other questions, please don't hesitate to email or call me.

Many of you are probably wondering what is happening with SB1875/Smoke-free Oklahoma Act. We are waiting to hear about SB 1875/Smoke-free Oklahoma Act and whether it will be heard on the Senate floor. I will keep everyone informed as I find out more information.

Thanks for all that you do!
pw

Sen. Bass Passes Privacy Bill in Senate

Detailed information contained on digital driver licenses is supposed to be used for public safety purposesâ€”but right now, there is no law protecting individuals from having that information used for other purposes, including identity theft.

State Sen. Randy Bass, who previously championed Oklahomaâ€™s landmark identity theft legislation allowing Oklahomans to freeze their credit free of charge, has won approval for legislation to further protect the identity of Oklahomans through legislation aimed at stopping the practice of electronically swiping driver licenses and capturing the data to use for marketing purposes. The Senate voted unanimously to approve Senate Bill 1745 on Tuesday.

â€œIdentity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in this country, and new technology keeps making it easier for criminals to steal your personal information,â€ sad Bass, D-Lawton. â€œSomeone can ask to see your driver license as proof of age, and before you realize it, theyâ€™ve scanned all of your information with a small, portable device.â€

Bass said that often occurs in bars, when representatives of tobacco companies offer free samples, but ask to see the personâ€™s driver license first. The information is then scanned and used in direct marketing.

â€œI think this practice just demonstrates how easy it is to scan someoneâ€™s license without their knowledge and use that information for identity theft,â€ Bass said. â€œMy legislation would make it a misdemeanor to scan a license and to sell or store the data collected.â€

(more)

SB 1745â€™s supporters include the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, American Lung Association, Oklahoma State Medical Association, Oklahoma Hospital Association, Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy, Oklahoma Parent Teacher Association, AARP and others.

The measure now moves to the House for further consideration.

Paula James Warlick
American Cancer Society
Grassroots Manager - Oklahoma
(918) 477. 5410 or (888) 376.1725
email: paula.warlick@cancer.org

"The only cure for grief is action."
-Goethe

Take action today by visiting www.acscan.org
You CAN make a difference in the fight against cancer.

Senator Meyers' Bill ( SB 1875 )Moves to Senate

2008-02-25T07:32:00.000-08:00

Yippee!
The battle for this bill is just beginning and we will need all of you to write your senators or call them now and ask them to support SB1875
I will try to post a sampling of some of the letters that you all are sending. Every now and then one of you copies me on your letter to your senator. Unless you state otherwise I will assume that I am free to share your letter on this blog.

In the next few days, your Senator will be voting on SB 1875 or the Smoke Free Oklahoma Act. Now is THE time to call and your Senator and tell him that EVERYONE deserves to work in a healthy workplace.

Don't have your Senator's phone number and email? Go to: http://www.lsb.state.ok.us/ - then go to bottom to "Find your legislator." Enter in your home address and then go to your STATE Senator. It is that easy!

Thank you, Margie! I wrote both senators notes along these lines:
Please help protect Oklahomans by insuring that all employees in our state enjoy smoke-free workplaces. Smoke-free work places discriminate against no one and protect all. Those who wish to invite risk by inhaling cigarette fumes should also recognize the right of those who seek to protect against second-hand smoke hazards. If smokers would choose to light up their tobacco where it won't harm anyone else, legislation would not be necessary, and many employers won't forbid smoking for fear of losing revenue, but if the state imposed penalties for all venues (bars, entertainment, waiting areas), smokers would simply have to choose to light cigarettes in places where no one else is harmed.
And, Oklahoma would save healthcare dollars that are far too costly to waste.

Jeffery

Another Letter:
Hello Senator Williamson,

I urge your support for Senate Bill 1875, as it will improve the short- and long-term health of Oklahomans. As you know, the health of Oklahomans has a direct impact on education, the economy, and the quality of life in our state.

Thank you for your thoughtful consideration of this important issue.

Respectfully,
Stephanie Arnold de Verges

Press Release and Urban Tulsa Article

2008-02-05T13:47:00.000-08:00

OKLAHOMA ALLIANCE ON
HEALTH OR TOBACCO
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wes Glinsmann, American Heart Association, 405-948-2145

Pat Marshall, American Cancer Society, 405-841-5828

Restaurant Owners, Musicians Join Fight to Protect All Workers from the Health Dangers of Secondhand Smoke, Pass SB 1875
Oklahoma City, February 6 – Oklahoma restaurant owners and musicians are joining health advocates in calling for a state law that protects all workers from the dangers of secondhand smoke.

“Our employees are our most valuable asset,” said Chad Bleakley, owner of VZD’s Restaurant and Club in Oklahoma City. “We’re happy that our employees work in a smoke-free environment, but we want all Oklahoma workers to have that same protection.”

Sen. David Myers (R-Ponca City) has filed SB 1875, which would eliminate most smoking exemptions currently on the books, including those for bars and restaurant smoking rooms.

Oklahoma musicians and their fans are also joining the movement. Margee Aycock is the founder of Musicians and Music Lovers for Smoke-Free Listening. “I come from a family of musicians, and I have seen firsthand the health impacts that secondhand smoke can cause,” Aycock said. “It is time we stop making people choose between their health and the careers and the music they love.”

Health advocates agreed, saying the state’s clean indoor air law, which was passed five years ago, was a good start but needs improvement. “For the last five years, musicians, bartenders, waiters and others who work in restaurants and bars have been treated like second-class citizens,” said Wes Glinsmann, Director of Government Affairs for the American Heart Association. “We look forward to working with them to pass SB 1875 and offer them the same protections that other Oklahoma workers enjoy.”

In a 2006 report, then-U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Richard Carmona said “The scientific evidence is now indisputable: secondhand smoke is not a mere annoyance. It is a serious health hazard that can lead to disease and premature death in children and nonsmoking adults.” The study found that nonsmokers who were exposed to secondhand smoke were 25-30% more likely to develop heart disease and 20-30% more likely to get lung cancer.

The OAHT is a statewide alliance of pro-health groups including the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, American Lung Association, Oklahoma State Medical Association, Oklahoma Hospital Association, Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy, Oklahoma Parent Teacher Association (PTA), American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) and over 30 other organizations.

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FEBRUARY 27, 2008
Smoke and Fears
Health concerns and pop pulpit prompt passage of smoking ban in all pubs

BY BRIAN ERVIN

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Nipped in the Butt. A bill making its way through the legislative gauntlet would ban smoking in the last public refuge left to addicts of the tasty but deadly lung snacks.

Nipped in the Butt. A bill making its way through the legislative gauntlet would ban smoking in the last public refuge left to addicts of the tasty but deadly lung snacks.
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Oklahoma will soon go the way of California, Ireland and a growing number of other health-conscious, non-smoking parts of the world, if the hopes and fears of some concerned parties come true.

"It'll pass. I know that's the direction we're going," said Robert Johnson, with a modicum of loathing mixed with his resignation.

He owns Cowboy Sharkies sports bar and restaurant, at 58th and Memorial, which has a section designated for smokers.

Johnson is among countless other bar and restaurant proprietors in Tulsa and Oklahoma who are watching a bill currently making its way through the legislative gauntlet, which would ban smoking in the last public refuge left to addicts of the tasty but deadly lung snacks: bars, clubs, taverns and restaurants.

And not just most bars, clubs, taverns and restaurants. Every single one of them.

State Sen. David Myers' Senate Bill 1875 would take away exemptions to the law passed in 2003 that bans smoking in public places.

The old new law made exceptions for establishments that make most of their receipts from alcohol, like bars, and for restaurants with separate rooms with separate ventilation systems preventing second-hand smoke affecting patrons in the non-smoking sections of the restaurant.

Hopefully, those establishments enjoyed it while it lasted (or endured it while it lasted, depending on who's asked). As it's currently written, Myers' proposed law would do away with the bar exception on Nov. 1 this year, and the exception for separately ventilated smoking rooms on March 1, 2013.

"I know this is just one step, and we have a long way to go, but this is a good start," said Myers, R-Ponca City, when the bill passed the Senate Business and Labor Committee by a 5-3 vote last week.

"Too many Oklahomans are facing unnecessary health risks because of secondhand smoke. It kills hundreds of our citizens every year. They need our help," he also said.

Some of those Oklahomans "facing unnecessary health risks" from secondhand smoke are Jesse and Dylan Aycock, who are 26 and 22, respectively.

Their mom, Margee Aycock is among the most vocal advocates for the new law, and the founder of Musicians and Music Lovers for Smoke-Free Listening, a grass roots organization that's been lobbying for the legislation.

She said she formed the group after years of going to see both of her sons perform at many of the bars, clubs and restaurants that are Tulsa's music venues, and got fed up with their constant subjection to secondhand smoke.

"It wasn't just for me, but the fact that my sons are getting sick in these very, very smoky bars," Aycock told UTW.

She said one of her sons is sick year-round, and the other almost fainted once midway through a performance.

"He wasn't getting enough oxygen, there was so much smoke," she said.

Aycock said musicians like her sons typically have to play in thick clouds of the secondhand smoke emitted by about 200 people, for six hours straight, five nights a week, which is worse for the musicians than for the smokers themselves.

"It's just not right," she said.

Aycock said that, since she began her crusade, musicians have approached her and told her, "I am so thankful for you doing this."

She said she expected a lot of opposition and hard feelings for her efforts, but has been surprised by the positive response.

"I've even heard from musicians who are smokers who told me they would prefer to play in a smoke-free environment," Aycock added.

But, the Cowboy Sharkies proprietor called the proposed new law "mansy-pansy" and "wishy-washy."

"They're getting involved in stuff that government has no business getting involved in and making laws against adults doing what they want to do," said Johnson.

About the musicians' plight, he said, "I think they're big kids and if they didn't want the gig, they don't have to take the gig. They're not 12-year-old kids, and we're forcing them up there to sing for their dinner. If they don't like it they can go somewhere else."

Indeed, the website for Aycock's group, www.oksmokefree.blogspot.com, lists a few smoke-free music venues in Tulsa, which include Sound Pony, Kilkenny's, and Bruhouse.

But, Aycock said the smoke-free venues are the exception, not the norm, and there aren't enough smoke-free venues to make a significant dent in the problem.

And, contrary to Johnson's comments, "sing for their dinner" is precisely what the musicians must do, according to Aycock.

"They have to support themselves, and there aren't enough smoke-free venues to do that, and they have to feed their families," she said.

Aycock said the proposed law "doesn't address whether you like to smoke or not, it's about safety in the work place."

Of course, the new law would also affect wait staff at bars.

"Most of them are just trying to work their way through college, and they don't need to be exposed to that," she said.

Aycock added, "It's kind of like telling a factory worker to go somewhere else if he doesn't like the unsafe conditions."

But, that's essentially what Johnson said restaurant operators like him should have the right to do.

"I care about my staff. I treat my staff like my own kids, but they also made the choice to work here, and I've lost staff before because they had allergies and left because of the secondhand smoke," he said.

Johnson is among the minority of restaurants with a separately ventilated smoking section, and he said he prefers his staff spend as little time in it as possible.

He said he objects on principle to the fact that the proposed law would do away with smoking sections like his.

But, Myers told UTW that only about 1 percent of restaurants in Oklahoma have the separately ventilated smoking sections, so the impact from his law would be minimal.

As he sees it, the effect would be negligible even for that one restaurant in 100 with a smoking section.

"Most are never full, in my observation," said Myers.

But, Johnson said his smoking section gives him an advantage of about $2,000 a week.

"I'm one of the few restaurants in town where you can have a rib eye steak and have a cigar at the same time," he said.

Johnson said he had an "unfair advantage over people who couldn't adapt" five years ago when the last statewide smoking ban passed.

When he launched his restaurant six years, the building that became Cowboy Sharkies already had a separately ventilated room, so Johnson was able to comply with the new law without any need to invest more money.

Abdul Alhlou wasn't so fortunate, though.

He's the owner and operator of Silver Flame Steakhouse and Seafood at 61st and Sheridan. After the 2003 law passed, he spent $35,000 to create a smoking section with separate ventilation.

"I did that to accommodate the customers who wanted to smoke. When you have a bar, people like to smoke, people like to drink while they listen to the music," he explained as his reason for the investment.

"Now they're taking it away," he added.

"We complied with everything we were supposed to do, and now they're taking it away in five years," said the exasperated restaurateur.

"It's up to the customer if they want to go in there. We don't twist their arm and say, 'You have to go in this room.' It's up to them," Alhlhou also said.

Myers said disgruntled restaurant owners like Alhlou should take that up with the Oklahoma Restaurant Association if they don't like it.

"Their restaurant association, who they belong to, wants this," he told UTW.

"I realize it's an investment," he added, concerning the newly build smoking rooms. That's why I gave them until 2013," noting that even that deadline is negotiable.

"We're not plowing new ground here," Myers added, noting that 27 other states have already enacted bans on public smoking with no negative impact on business.

Even Ireland--the land renowned for its bars and pubs, has jumped on the smoke-free bandwagon, he pointed out.

COMMENTS
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4 comments posted for this article

Traveler, Broken Arrow 2/27/2008 - 10:00am

Finally - I strongly agree with this bill. I enjoy going to bars and listening to music. However, with all the smoke it makes for a very uncomfortable evening. Why should non-smokers have to put up with deadly smoke. If you choose to smoke and endanger your life fine - but you shouldn't be able to endanger mine. Go outside if you want to smoke!
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Traveler, Broken Arrow 2/27/2008 - 10:04am

Finally - I strongly agree with this bill and am very much looking forward to the day when I can comfortably go to a bar, listen to music and not have to put up with deadly smoke. If smokers want to endanger thier lives fine with me! But they should be able to endanger mine.
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sgtrockmarine, West

Our First Call to Action

2008-02-04T14:31:00.000-08:00

Tobacco Free Oklahoma Lobby Day will take place Wednesday, March 5, 2008 at the Oklahoma State Capitol in Oklahoma City.

The Lobby Day will focus on current legislation that will make Oklahoma 100% smoke-free.

This event is being sponsored by the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association and the American Lung Association and will bring together those from across the state who want Oklahoma to become smoke-free.

Lobby Day is open to the public, but registration is required.

Tobacco Free Oklahoma Lobby Day will promptly begin at 9 a.m. and will conclude at 2 p.m.

When: Wednesday, March 5

Where: Oklahoma State Capitol-2nd floor, Governor's Large Conference Room

Time: Registration and breakfast 8:30 - 9 a.m., Lobby Day activities 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

To prepare for the legislative meetings, we will hold 2 conference calls prior to Lobby Day. Calls will take place at:

1.) 12 p.m. Wednesday, February 27
2.) 7 p.m. Wednesday, February 27

Call in information, as well as further logistics for Lobby Day itself, will be provided via email the week of February 25.

Please take time to register and make your voice heard on March 5. Together we can make a difference and make Oklahoma Tobacco Free.

Please register at:http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=REextvVy5fJIL4kUKXVTIQ_3d_3d

If you have questions regarding Lobby Day, please contact Paula Warlick with the American Cancer Society at: (918) 477-5410 or at paula.warlick@cancer.org

The Bills Have Arrived

2008-01-29T13:43:00.000-08:00

Well, folks, here they are.... Bills to watch and offer your 2 cents on...... I will be trying to put some of these in plain English and draft some sample letters soon. Until then feel free to make your comments here and to your legislators...

Smoking in Public Places & Workplaces
SB1182 Myers An Act relating to smoking; amending 21 O.S. 2001, Section 1247, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 70, O.S.L. 2007 (21 O.S. Supp. 2007, Section 1247), and 63 O.S. 2001, Section 1-1523, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 70, O.S.L. 2007 (63 O.S. Supp. 2007, Section 1-1523), which relate to smoking in public places; prohibiting children in certain smoking areas; and providing an effective date.
SB1875 By: Auffet Myers An Act relating to smoking; amending 21 O.S. 2001, Section 1247, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 70, O.S.L. 2007 (21 O.S. Supp. 2007, Section 1247), and 63 O.S. 2001, Sections 1-1522, as amended by Section 3, Senate Joint Resolution No. 21, p. 2357, O.S.L. 2003, 1-1523, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 70, O.S.L. 2007, and 1-1527 (63 O.S. Supp. 2007, Sections 1-1522 and 1-1523), which relate to smoking in public places; deleting language permitting designated smoking rooms in certain buildings; prohibiting smoking near the entrance or exit of certain buildings; deleting certain exemptions; deleting language permitting employers to provide smoking rooms; deleting obsolete language; providing certain time limit; prohibiting certain addition; deleting language permitting designated smoking areas in restaurants; deleting definitions; modifying legislative intent; repealing Section 3, Chapter 517, O.S.L. 2004 (3A O.S. Supp. 2007, Section 208.12), which relates to smoking in gaming areas; and providing an effective date.
HB2589 Luttrell An Act relating to smoking; amending 21 O.S. 2001, Section 1247, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 70, O.S.L. 2007 (21 O.S. Supp. 2007, Section 1247) and 63 O.S. 2001, Section 1-1523, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 70, O.S.L. 2007 (63 O.S. Supp. 2007, Section 1-1523), which relate to smoking in public places; prohibiting persons under the age of eighteen from being in a designated smoking room; prohibiting smoking in a vehicle if a minor is in the vehicle; providing for fine and court costs upon conviction; limiting authority of law enforcement to stop vehicle; providing for codification; and providing an effective date.
HB3254 Pittman An Act relating to smoking; amending 21 O.S. 2001, Section 1247, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 70, O.S.L. 2007 (21 O.S. Supp. 2007, Section 1247) and 63 O.S. 2001, Section 1-1523, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 70, O.S.L. 2007 (63 O.S. Supp. 2007, Section 1-1523), which relate to smoking in public places; eliminating exemption for stand-alone bars and taverns and cigar bars; prohibiting food and beverage service in designated smoking rooms; prohibiting the display of tobacco product promotions in stores; excepting certain stores; defining term; and providing an effective date.
Repeal of State Preemption of Local Tobacco Ordinances
SB1607 By: Auffet Adelson An Act relating to intoxicating liquors; amending 37 O.S. 2001, Sections 600.3, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 253, O.S.L. 2004, 600.4, 600.8, as amended by Section 4, Chapter 253, O.S.L. 2004, 600.9, 600.10 and Section 5, Chapter 253, O.S.L. 2004 (37 O.S. Supp. 2007, Sections 600.3, 600.8 and 600.10A), which

relate to the Prevention of Youth Access to Tobacco Act; prohibiting certain municipal ordinances from being less stringent than this act; deleting language prohibiting a political subdivision from adopting a regulation concerning tobacco products in certain circumstances; permitting political subdivisions to further regulate smoking or tobacco products; and providing an effective date.

Comments

2008-01-13T09:35:00.000-08:00

We have heard from a lot of you by email. A few things have surprised me.... One, that several of you are smoking musicians who wish to entertain in smoke free environments. The other is the astounding number of you both young and old and from all walks of life and musical tastes who are no longer going out because of the smoke. Imagine how our health would improve if those who sit home watching tv every weekend could get out and dance! Anyways, I would like to open this section of the blog up for your comments.

Letters of Support for Smoke Free Listening

2007-12-28T16:37:00.000-08:00

Dear Smoke Free Fans,
Thank you all for your support. I have gotten tons of emails from young and older folks who aren’t going out because of smoke. If club owners only knew how much business they were missing out on…. Anyways I took the names off of these letters but wanted to share just a few of them with you.

I applaud your efforts, and will support you in any way. My husband and I enjoy local music, but have stopped going to local concerts simply because of the smoke. I actually left a concert at the Cain’s ballroom last year because just 3 or 4 smokers in the room ruined the whole atmosphere.

My husband laid out the Tulsa World article about 'Clearing the air'. I am so with you. I am 51 years old, and stopped going out and doing the one thing I most love to do, listen to live music and dance. I am allergic to cigarrette smoke, and I cannot be around it. A few months ago, I went to see Damien Rice at the Cain's ballroom. I really like his music, and the one thing I considered when I purchased tickets, is that Cain's is supposed to be smoke free. Much to my dismay, the doors were left open to the bar where smoking was allowed, thus all the smoking filtered in to Cain's. Furthermore, there was a group of people standing in front of me who were smoking. I complained to a man I thought was a bouncer, and he just told me there wasn't any way to control the crowd. How sad for Cain's because I will not go back.
If there is anything I can do to help in this matter, please contact me. My cell phone is ---------Again, I have considered opening my own bar for people my age, with a smoke free environment. I miss dancing to Marcia Ball, and Johnny Reno and the Sax Maniacs who I used to see in the 80's in at the Coyote Club in Wichita Kansas. I miss Koko Taylor, and I miss dancing. Please, lets get this ball rolling.

I have wanted a smoke-free club for years! I am allergic to cigarette smoke and get horrible migraines when I try to go to a club. Please add my e-mail address to your list for a reminder to write my legislator. Thanks!

I am in total support of Smoke Free Bars. My husband and I enjoy playing pool & darts but do not go out any more because of the cigarette smoke. It gets up in my sinus cavity and I am sick for 2-3 days after a night out. I am also allergic to cigarette smoke.

I have owned several bars around Tulsa and suffered for years. My last bar, I closed due to the cigarette smoke. I just couldn't handle it any more.

I would support banning smoking. But if you put a proposed law on the books. Make it No Smoking within 50 feet of the entrance door. I don't want to walk through a cloud of smoke just to get in the door. That is my gripe with office workers smoking outside an office building also.

Hello, I read your article in the newspaper today and would like you to add our names and address to your efforts to ban smoking. I too, am allergic to cigarette smoke and have 2 daughters (ages 13 and 2-1/2) who are asthmatics. We moved here from San Diego last June and the number of smokers here is appalling to my husband and me. I lived in San Diego the past 20 years but had lived in Tulsa prior to that. In California it is illegal to smoke in any bars, restaurants, etc. even Solana Beach is a non-smoking city.

I took our son to get his haircut at a barber shop off 31st and Garnett and the entire smoke smelled like cigarettes, I thought it was illegal here to smoke in public places such as that. The owner of the barber shop got angry when I mentioned the law and he told me in so many words he could smoke wherever he ‘”….” well pleased. Needless to say, I found another place to have our sons hair cut.

We would also like to see no smoking in front of doorways to any buildings like it is in California. One cannot shop at any store here without smelling and breathing cigarette smoke before entering into the shopping malls, grocery stores, gas stations, etc.

I love my mother-in-law dearly and recently she was diagnosed with emphysema due to her smoking, she is trying to quit as the damage is irreversible and now she has panic attacks because she cannot breathe and has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder – all from smoking cigarettes and she is only around 55 years old.

Let us know how we can help and thank you for your efforts in this ban.

I'm very excited about this movement. It's something
my friends and I have talked about extensively. There
are many nights (including tonight) that I just don't
go out because I know the smoke will make me feel ill
the next day. I can't imagine working in a blue haze
every night.

Please contact me via mail as you have information,
and I'll be glad to participate. Thank you!

read the article today in the Tulsa World about your campaign to eliminate smoking in bars and night clubs. Please count me as a supporter of your cause.

I enjoy music and other events around Tulsa clubs but the smoke usually sends me home early. I would definitely go out more often and stay longer if smoke were not present. Of the many friends who share this same regret, some are smokers who also prefer non-smoking venues. They simply go outside if they feel the need to smoke.

The employees and performers in these establishments are victims of irresponsible neglect of the very well documented health risks attributed to second hand smoke. I applaud your leadership in a positive direction for all patrons and staff connected to the entertainment industry

I am with you. I am one of those people who won't go out to hear live music and dance because of the smoke. Put my name on the list to write my congressman. I had no idea that Austin and NYC had smoke free bars and clubs. Thanks for your work in this area!
Saw the article about you in today's Tulsa World. Good job!!

My wife and I like to go out dancing, but we do not like the smoke. Please push this issue and send us a petition to sign. We want the bars and clubs to be smoke free too!

I am a musician here in Tulsa and am friends with your sons.
Thank you for your efforts to raise awareness about smoking in bars! I
applaud you noble woman! I to, HATE being forced into smoky environments
to play and or listen to good music, and I truly appreciate what you
are doing. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Yeah for you! I am part of a group of friends that love to go dancing and it is extremely difficult to find somewhere to go that isn't so smokey that we are all sick the next day (yes I am an ex smoker). I have recently been diagnosed with a gastric ulcer that is aggravated by smoke so I am now going to be even more careful. Please keep my email and let me know what I can do to help. I will forward to my friends as well. Out of a group of 20 of us only 3 smoke so most will be supportive.

Readers, I found this today from Ponca City:

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Letter to the Editor - Swalley

Adjust to the Rules

I am a two pack a day smoker and live in Califoria under much stricter rules than these. Here we cannot smoke in any resturant, bar or store. We cannot smoke on hospital or government property except in a designated smoking area either outside or with special ventilation. We can't smoke in a car with a minor inside. We can't smoke within 15 feet of a doorway used to enter or exit a building.

After the first 15 minutes we adjusted and it is an easy lifestyle to accept and follow.

Resturants and bars added outside covered patios and not only the smokers but others like them. It was a cheap way to add more seating space and have more customers. Smokers don't complain because non-smokers are sitting in their area in resturants.

People that don't smoke have as much right to clean air as I have to smoke. Adjust and wait until you are outside the restaurant to light up. The extra few minutes won't kill you.

Clinton Swalley

Opinion Directory | Front Page

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Published Sun, Mar 2, 2008, On Page 4 A

See the Tulsa World Article Here

2007-12-06T16:07:00.000-08:00

Click here to see Tulsa World Article

Thanks Tulsa For Stepping Up!

2007-12-06T15:59:00.000-08:00

I wanted to thank you for the overwhelming support from people from all ages and all walks of life. I have received emails in response to the newspaper article today from club goers, polititians, musicians, moms, lawyers.... I wanted to share with you one letter ( I asked if I could share this and got an ok ) This is a letter that he wrote to his representative concerning the smoking in public places issue. Here it is
LONNY DAVIS, J.D.

Counselor and Attorney at Law

Email: TulsaLaw@Grad.com

1503 East Twenty-first Street Telefax: (918) 599-9555

Tulsa, Oklahoma 74114-1339 Telephone: (918) 599-9555

February 9, 2002

Oklahoma State Legislature

c/o Senator Ben Robinson

2300 North Lincoln Blvd., Rm 511

Oklahoma City, OK 73105-4808

RE: Senate Bill 1553

Dear Members of the Oklahoma Legislature:

For years I have been disappointed to find my clothes smelling of smoke after visiting a restaurant or club. As a result of "second hand smoke" present in these public accommodations, I have suffered the expense of additional cleaning bills for my clothes and sometimes suffered respiratory problems. But until now, I did not realize that I was unwillingly being transfused with a narcotic drug and poison, nicotine.

I recently had a blood test incidental to a life insurance physical. I was surprised to discover that thirty-six (36) hours after my last exposure to "second hand smoke" that the blood test found nicotine present in my blood.

Permitting smoking in public accommodations is functionally the same as permitting anyone to infuse drugs such as cocaine, heroin or marijuana into a citizen without his/her permission. Nicotine is a drug, just as cocain, heroin and marijuana are drugs. Condoning an environment that permits the involuntary infusion of any drug into a person should not be permitted. The fact that nicotine, in the form of tobacco, is legal does not make the intrusion any less offensive, such an intrusion could be criminal.

I defy anyone to allege that they have the right to infuse any substance or drug into my blood without my permission. Yet, the Legislature of Oklahoma permits such acts. Why?

Permitting smoking in public accommodations infringes on an individual’s freedom of choice and right of assembly. It endangers the health of workers and will likely result in workers’ compensation claims and, perhaps, negligent endangerment claims against employers. There are plenty of creative attorneys which might embrace such actions.

Take the responsible action, pass Senate Bill 1553. Please don’t continue to condone the unlawful act of infusing the drug nicotine into the blood of innocent citizens.

Respectfully,

Lonny (Leon P.) Davis

Enclosure: Blood Test

2007-11-26T15:23:00.000-08:00

Musicians and Music Lovers for Smoke Free Listening is a grass roots organization that has formed with the intention of effecting upcoming legislation for smoke free work spaces.

It is common knowledge that second hand smoke is a major contributor to lung cancer, asthma, heart disease, emphysema and other cancers. We all deserve to be able to work and play in an environment that won’t kill us.

You may wonder if this will hurt the business owners. If all comply ( rather than a few making the move on their own ) business can only improve along with the health of their employees and the bands who play at their establishments.

Dozens of studies and hard economic data have shown that smoke-free laws do not harm sales or employment in restaurants and bars and may even have a positive impact. Some of the strongest evidence comes from NYC where a report found that in the year after the city’s comprehensive smoke-free laws took effect income increased, employment rose and the # of liquor licenses increased.

If you are interested in being a member of this group please respond with a “yes” and your phone # in the subject line of your email to artistswaygallery@yahoo.com. We will also be posting information on http://oksmokefree.blogspot.com as it becomes available.
This is grassroots so bear with us as we get things rolling. Legislators won’t be back in session until 2008. You will be hearing from us closer to that time. We will be working closely with the American Cancer Society so feel free to check their web site as well.

A copy of a letter written to OK legislators

2007-11-26T15:18:00.000-08:00

Dear Legislator,

I am writing to you because you are on a committee that deals with public health and I am hoping one of you will care to take this important issue on.

My husband and I have worked with juveniles for over 30 years, Scott as a therapist and myself as a counselor and teacher. We have raised two non smoking musician sons who are exposed to second hand smoke for hours on end as they share their music with Oklahoma audiences. If they are to remain in Oklahoma as musicians( many of our finest musicians leave as you well know ) they will continue to be exposed to this dangerous chemical unless you do something.

I applaud you for your efforts to protect diners and restaurant workers from the effects of second hand smoke. It is my hope that you press on and do the same for bars and clubs in our great state. Bars and dance clubs are populated largely by our youth under the age of 30. Many are on their own for the first time in their lives and are creating habits that will remain with them for the rest of their lives.

I mention that we have worked with young people because I want you to understand what we know about ritualizing behavior. If young people associate smoking with relaxing with friends and a beer and if they create memories of great times filled with warmth, fun and intimate connection with their peers they are creating a ritual with smoking at its center. Smoking already connects with our sense of smell, touch, taste and if we add the sense of well being and friendship to that it becomes an almost impossible habit to break.

I beg you to help our children by taking a stand once again in the public health arena and make bars and clubs non- smoking venues.

I know you have seen that once you took smoking out of restaurants people still showed up and they will still show up in bars and dance clubs.

I selfishly want my children to survive and entertain you for years to come with out suffering from asthma, lung disease, cancer etc and I would like to be able to go hear them play with out headaches, red eyes and coughing. We know it will happen at some point. Why not do it now while you have the momentum of the restaurant smoking ban and all the research of the medical and health communities behind you and the push towards cleaner air in general? This is a real solvable problem that I would like to see addressed before you all leave office. I really don’t want to hear that it isn’t do able because I know that it is and other states and entire countries have adopted this health saving practice and I know we can too. Will one of you sponsor a bill to get this done? Pleeeeeeeeese.

If there is anything at all that I can do to help please call me or write.

Sincerely,
Margaret Aycock

What you can do

2007-11-22T13:39:00.000-08:00

Hey you all,
Those of you who love to dance, listen to music, meet with friends or have a drink at a music venue need to watch this and then if you agree that something needs to be done, send me your email because I am working with the American Cancer Society to see legislation passed to protect your health and that of your music loving friends and the musicians that we all love to listen to. Send me your email if you are interested in a grass roots effort to effect legislation to protect us all from second hand smoke in music venues. My email is artistswaygallery@yahoo.com. I promise, I am not going to write you every month but I will write you when I need you to call your legislator or write an email. If you are a musician and want us to link to your site please include a web address and we'll add you. Thanks!

Bars go Smoke Free

2007-11-22T13:36:00.000-08:00