After 15 years of smoking, I finally quit last September. And let me tell you, it wasn't easy. Now I finally understand why all my nonsmoking friends used to say I smell like an ash-tray.
It's disgusting!
That said, I've also worked in various Fargo/Moorhead bars as a DJ for more than seven years. Being a DJ teaches you to observe people. In the last few years since the smoking debate began, I've been watching people for their reactions. It is my observation that most of the people clamoring for smoke-free bars don't really frequent the bars to begin with. And, generally, it isn't because the bars are smoky; it's because they simply don't go out much. Granted this isn't always the case, but for the most part it is. Going out for two beers once every four months with your co-workers won't support a business, unfortunately.
Young singles and those who value their night life and go out often support businesses. These folks are, more often than not, casual and regular smokers. This is clearly the reason bar owners are resisting the ban.
Even though I am an ex-smoker, and the smell of cigarette smoke has now become disgusting to me, I cannot support a smoking ban in bars. There are plenty of nice lounges in this town that are now smoke-free. I would suggest to teetotalers and those who cannot tolerate smoke that they frequent these establishments instead, as they have a business model that can sustain infrequent patronage.
