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Casinos blame ban for business loss, layoffs
BY Kenneth Lowe, The Southern Springfield Bureau
Sunday, February 10, 2008 2:30 AM CST
SPRINGFIELD - An overall decline in Illinois gambling last month might be because of the new statewide indoor smoking ban, some gambling industry officials said Friday.

According to numbers released by the Illinois Gaming Board, Illinois casinos in January saw a 17 percent decrease in revenue compared to January of 2007. The casinos saw a decrease of nearly 6 percent in admissions, although Harrah's Casino in Joliet and Par-A-Dice Casino in East Peoria both saw small increases.

The board's report coincided with Harrah's riverboat in Metropolis announcing Friday it would lay off 30 of its employees. The casino, near the Kentucky border, saw the largest drop in revenue from December at nearly 23 percent.

Officials at Harrah's Metropolis blamed the drop in business on the smoking ban.

Tom Swoik, executive director of the Illinois Gaming Association, also believes the majority of lost revenue is because of the ban. Swoik said gamblers who smoke aren't all jumping the border to out-of-state casinos, but that those smokers who do still attend Illinois casinos need to take smoke breaks outside, which could cut into the time they spend gambling.

"If you look at the admissions, they've gone down, but they haven't gone down as much as the revenues," Swoik said. "The less time people gamble, the more it has an effect on revenues."

Others say it may be too early to assess the impact of the ban.

Bill Renk, vice president of Jumer's Casino in Rock Island, said a combination of the smoking ban, harsh weather and the current state of the economy make it difficult to blame any single factor on his casino's bad numbers. Jumer's saw a slight increase in attendance from December, but revenues were down almost 7 percent.

"If we're going to be speaking specifically to smoking, I think the true picture for us is going to have to wait," Renk said. "Even then, we've done some things to sort of mitigate the situation by providing smoking areas for our guests which are being used."

Mike Grady, a spokesman for the American Cancer Society, said all economic studies gathered by his organization have determined there are no longterm effects on the economy after smoking ban laws like Illinois' Smoke Free Illinois Act take effect.

"Right now is a very turbulent economic time, and to try to point to the Smoke Free Illinois Act as the reason a certain sector of the economy might be showing some slippage right now is a really big stretch," Grady said.

State Rep. Mike Boland, D-East Moline, said more time must be taken to examine the trends to see what factors are causing the revenue loss.

"If there's a drop-off at all the boats everywhere in the state, it could be the smoking ban, or it could be the economy," Boland said. "I think we're probably going to have to wait to really see what's happening there."

Swoik said there likely will be efforts to make casino game rooms exempt from the smoking ban. The planned exemption would allow smoking only in game rooms and would last either five years or until surrounding states pass smoking bans similar to the one in Illinois, Swoik said.

Boland said he would consider an exemption if it left some area set aside for nonsmokers in the casinos.

"There are people who tell me they don't go to the boats because of all the smoke," Boland said. "Maybe making sure that there's at least some place that's smoke-free might bring in more customers."

Grady said the American Cancer Society would oppose any exemption.

"Casino workers have a right to breathe clean air and not risk their health to bring a paycheck home to their family," Grady said. "The idea that a certain class of worker should be put at risk makes no sense to us."

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Simple Simon wrote on Mar 2, 2008 10:55 AM:

" Interesting. The Metropolis casino blames its business turndown on the smoking ban. However, on TV news the other night, there was a story about how the casino's revenues have been poor "for the last five months." Funny how the smoking ban caused bad business in October! "

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I agree wrote on Mar 1, 2008 7:02 PM:

" Although I disagree with the smoking ban, I do agree with what BobbR wrote on Feb. 11. I have to say though, that the democrats aren't helping anything either by trying turn us into a socialist republic. I think both parties have let us down in all aspects of governing our great country. We need a new "fix America first" movement that protects our individual rights as citizens, our rights as workers, our jobs, and our freedoms. We need a new party that reflects the needs and ideas of the citizens of this nation and not small groups such as corperations, other countries, and groups seeking unfair privilages by removing the rights of others. "

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Remember When: wrote on Feb 28, 2008 6:46 AM:

" Ya all know the song. Take a look back and remember when you could smoke anywhere. 30yrs ago women smoked while pregnant(kids are ok)We drank and drove and if we got stopped by the police they just took ya home.You use to be able to spank your kids(teachers at school also)now you go to jail for it and thats why there are so many problems with kids these day. Listen to the song, it is so truthful, just think back and you will remember. What is this world coming to? I like the good old days alot better, You were more free. Now we should all remember our parents telling us the story about having to walk a mile in the snow to school, they have really seen the times change and now we are seeing to. Its a shame, before long you won't be able to eat what you want. Its sad. I am all for smoking. Its a choice. "

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Janetta wrote on Feb 20, 2008 5:42 PM:

" Maybe if the casino in Metropolis would honor their hotel offers, more people would feel like visiting their casino/hotel. I have been turned down for rooms numerous times because "they don't have any rooms left". Quit sending me free hotel room offers if you won't honor them! That's the main reason I don't care to visit the Metropolis casino any longer. Quit blaming your bad marketing on the smoking ban. "

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No Fan of Blogo wrote on Feb 20, 2008 4:59 PM:

" You want to see casino business loss and layoffs...wait till Blogo gets his bill passed that will make you pay taxes on your winnings. You will have to see the taxman before you leave the boat. Not only is it bad for Illinoisans, it will stop people from the border states from coming to the boats, because if they win more than $1000. they will have to file an Ill. tax return. "

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SANITY IN MOTION wrote on Feb 20, 2008 2:58 PM:

" Seens like some people need some truth, as children and in parenting. I guess, we should let all smokers and few non-smokers have there baby ways. Let the smoke filled doors open. Sit right down and breath with little sound. But not with children. I guess we should continue allowing drunkers to drink and drive as well, and go home to harm wife/husband and children. That is if they make it home. W Hockey stick, give all the criminally insane, legal or not, the freedom to choose for themselves. "

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AND ANOTHER SHANON wrote on Feb 20, 2008 2:37 PM:

" As you know seem to know, there are even worse parents then one could imagine. They are not the government dictating but are certainly forseen consequences. "

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Re to re:RED BUD wrote on Feb 20, 2008 2:30 PM:

" Is it like an illegal Mary Jane? "

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re:RED BUD wrote on Feb 20, 2008 2:27 PM:

" OOh OOh OOOH OOOh OOOh OOOOh OOOOh OOOOH, DON'T WORRY BE MERRY/MARRIED. BE HAPPY, DON'T WORRY BE HAPPLY MARRIED NOW, BE UNITED NOW. "

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RE:RED BUD wrote on Feb 20, 2008 2:20 PM:

" Seen it and still seeing through the forest and over the mountain to OUR Fathers Fathers FATHER PROMISE LAND, where there is NO BAD WOLVES, and better to see you or eat you with... kill, steal, and destroy you with... I see streets made of gold and colors of rainbows... I preety sure that there is no NO RED BUD there! Is that pot or booz, or something else? Or is it someone? "

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Red Bud wrote on Feb 19, 2008 9:55 AM:

" So you mean this smoking ban curtails smoking AND reduces gambling? That is a win-win situation. Talk about your fortuitous unforseen consequences... "

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To All: wrote on Feb 19, 2008 6:43 AM:

" Again, this is FREEDOM OF CHOICE were talking here. Do you think this would be as big a story as it is if you could still smoke? I think not. It is a story because of the smoking ban and all places including the Casinos are loosing money and laying off people. More jobs lost and more people we as tax payers will have to pay for. "

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Another to Shannon wrote on Feb 18, 2008 11:36 PM:

" Thank you for your revealing comments. To begin with, the non-smoking militants in our society have proclaimed that second-hand smoke is a "public health issue" and that is the reason it is so important that the GOVERNMENT ban it.

The studies used by the EPA and ACS to "prove" that thousands have died from exposure to second-hand smoke did not even prove it. In fact, they did not even actually CONDUCT any research. What did they do?...they did some picking and choosing about which studies they wanted to include in their "research" and discarded the ones that didn't prove their biased opinion. In addition, one of the studies they used wasn't even completed yet! As a result, they were forced to reduce their initial "ESTIMATED" number of second-hand smoking deaths from some ridiculous figure (tens of thousands) to 3,000...which have still not been officially documented to this day. When all was said and done, they had to manipulate the 鈥渞esearch鈥 to get it CLOSE to the outcome they wanted...in other words, they used junk science and LIED. The result, do-gooders like yourself, and the sheeple have continued to propagate this lie to suit their own bias and have thereby succeeded in giving the government more power over our personal lives.

It is NOT a public health issue! It's about people like yourself who think they should DICTATE what your neighbors do and don't do. No one is forcing you to gamble or smoke or eat unhealthy foods, etc. But YOU want the government to dictate YOUR brand of morality on us all. Your comments concerning parents buying nice things for their children....that comment in itself reveals more about you than any other asinine remark you made.

According to your mentality, anyone who smokes or frequents a casino must be a HORRIBLE parent, huh Shannon? I wonder if you'll look back on this issue one day and finally see your error when the government makes it illegal to {fill in the blank with a personal choice of your own}. People like yourself owe all the small business owners in our state a HUGE apology. Some of these people have worked hard all their lives to succeed as a business owner. I guess THEIR American Dream means nothing to you since they are probably smokers anyway, huh? Geez, which morally inferior group is next, Shannon? People with brown hair and dark eyes? Pathetic. "

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Response to Shannon wrote on Feb 18, 2008 8:40 PM:

" hahhaha Lets get real here Shannon despite the fact that casino's are losing business... that doesnt mean at all that people arent still gambling or smoking. my dad smokes and gambles and hed much rather take his money down to the casino whether or not he has to get up from the table and smoke a cigarette outside every half hour, than by anything at all for me let alone donate to a charity... its too bad everyone isnt like shannon "

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RE: Casual Gambler wrote on Feb 18, 2008 4:20 PM:

" You mean that you believe that people are truly getting wise to the game? "

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REPLY: SOUTHERN ILLINOISAN wrote on Feb 18, 2008 4:18 PM:

" Sounds like you are reporting the facts! I believe you are! "

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TO:THE LADY, SHANNON wrote on Feb 18, 2008 4:10 PM:

" Sounds like you got a good head and a heart to go with it!!! "

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TO:C.C WRITER wrote on Feb 18, 2008 4:00 PM:

" NOW THAT A TEACHER WITH A TRUE ANSWER! "

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TO:Spade is a Spade wrote on Feb 18, 2008 3:58 PM:

" A teacher? My correct answer is false! "

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Casual Gambler wrote on Feb 18, 2008 12:54 PM:

" I agree with many of the previous posts. The Metropolis riverboat has really gone down hill over the past several years. I don't visit it as much since I have moved out of the area, but I can say that it has progressively gotten worse. I don't know that the smoking ban is the reason for the layoffs as much as it is poor management. However, having said that, I have visited casino boats in Evansville and St. Louis and can't say that they were any better than Metropolis. And I have heard horrible things about the riverboat in Caruthersville, MO. Perhaps riverboat gambling has past its peak. "

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Shannon wrote on Feb 18, 2008 12:43 PM:

" Maybe the compulsiveness to smoke and gamble each deserve a break. Not only is each habit potentially bad for one's self, neither foster healthy climates for casinos and our social image as a state. Whoop T do! If those folks don't spend their money at the casino or on cigarettes, maybe they can buy their children something nice or donate to a charity. "

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Southern Illinoisan wrote on Feb 18, 2008 10:53 AM:

" I went to the metropolis boat on Saturday night and if business is down you sure couldn't tell it that night. It was packed, we had to really walk around and hunt for a slot machine that was empty. We also had to wait for a table at the restaurant. And for the people that are unaware, there are designated smoking areas on the outside of the boat on every level. For anyone considering going to the St. Louis boat, the casino queen is a complete dump. If you are unhappy with Metropolis you will hate that one. "

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CC wrote on Feb 18, 2008 7:31 AM:

" The big picture here is I don't think anyone is telling smoker's you can't smoke, just do it outside or in your own home. "

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Freedom wrote on Feb 18, 2008 6:52 AM:

" I am with the Vet that filed the federal lawsuit from around W.Frankfort. An 18 yr old can go to Irag and fight for THERE FREEDOMS but his own freedoms in the the good old USA are being taken away. What is wrong with this picture? If the Gov. choose to make Casino's Exempt then so should the whole State of Ill. That is giving the wrong picture. The state can't loose money from this but business owners can? So Wrong. Smokers, stand up for your rights. Ill sells cigarettes and make tax dollars off them. "

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re Kimmisue wrote on Feb 18, 2008 5:59 AM:

" Sounds like someone is a mad gambler? Been there done that and won't go back. It is your choice to go to Evensville! Either way, I wish you good! "

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re Tell us all! wrote on Feb 18, 2008 5:51 AM:

" I understand you. I do plan on thinking long and hard about protecting our rights to freedom as it should be a choice. I certainly hope that I nor anyone else is insulted because of anyone getting kickbacks wrongfully. "

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RE TELL US ALL wrote on Feb 18, 2008 5:42 AM:

" I cerainly will vote carefully for our freedom as I knit-pick. "

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$$$ DING! DING! DING! wrote on Feb 18, 2008 5:38 AM:

" Could it be that people are getting really wise to the Casino games? "

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CAROL'S SONG wrote on Feb 18, 2008 5:30 AM:

" I am a smoker and ashame to admit it. But the truth is the truth. The way I see it is that people will buy more lotto tickets! It certainly would save time for better things like their children ... And, maybe our govt. will have a budget that will work to bring better jobs and to fulfill jeff's(from below)few rational reasons for not wanting a smoke-ban... At least, if you do win, you might when big and come out ahead, and maybe have enough to use it for a good cause. Maybe someday we will all, including government, stop having to depend on losses. "

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re jeff wrote on Feb 18, 2008 4:58 AM:

" Do I know you? Yes manly man, if stupid was locked up, you would have never been let out! Can you tell, if your liars works fall under stupid catagory, or does it fall under your greed god or your durnker god? DO YOU KNOW? "

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Re Spade is a Spade wrote on Feb 18, 2008 4:35 AM:

" And, a heart is a heart! Our you afraid that you won't be able to control yourself. Please do learn what lack in control means teaher! "

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Re Derek wrote on Feb 18, 2008 4:27 AM:

" All I can say is God help us with all our freedoms! "

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re Elliot Ness wrote on Feb 18, 2008 4:20 AM:

" Where do you live? HEE HEE HEE HA HA HA! Just kidding! Maybe the criminal insane need to have more organization in freedom! "

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kimmysue wrote on Feb 17, 2008 4:01 PM:

" I went down to Metropolis last night, and that place has really gone downhill. The restrooms were dirty, trash overflowing everywhere.... Also, they have instituted a policy where they charge $5.00 to cash a check if you write it for less than 200.00. I refused to pay the 5.00 and stopped gambling after my 20.00 was gone. Also, the place still reeks of stale cigarette smoke! I don't gamble very often but next time I do I'll go to Evansville or St Louis. "

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TELL US ALL wrote on Feb 17, 2008 1:05 PM:

" People, stop knit-picking each other! The matter here is our FREEDOM OF CHOICE as stated in the Illinois Constitution. My grandfathers, father, uncles, sister fought so I would have the right to choose. It is such a shame that some people don't know how to choose for themselves and apparently need the government to tell them how to live. I pay my dues at the the VFW. It is MY private club..we are all up in arms about this. If Illinois hotels and motels can have smoking rooms, why can't bars, private clubs & businesses? Probably because the government can't get a big kickback from us?Illinois government won't vote on excemptions until after the elections...PLEASE PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS TO FREEDOM AND VOTE CAREFULLY. "

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Terry wrote on Feb 17, 2008 11:30 AM:

" The casinos have only themselves to blame. They stop giving "comps," and are quick to cancel any points that you build up, if you don't play regular.

Don't call them casinos anymore, all they are - "are slot-machine galleries."

On to Mississippi!
"

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former saluki wrote on Feb 17, 2008 9:50 AM:

" The casino decline is not smoking related. As a former president once said "it's the economy stupid". "

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Uh DUH! wrote on Feb 17, 2008 9:44 AM:

" Gee, could it be that because the ECONOMY is bad, people are choosing not to waste what money they have on gambling? Makes more sense to me than thinking that people aren't going to the boat because it is smoke free! Just a thought. "

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John wrote on Feb 17, 2008 8:08 AM:

" I don't smoke. I have ABSOLUTELY NO OBJECTION to anyone who does. There are ash trays available in my home for whoever wants to do so.

Before the Illinois ban on cigarettes, A group of 12 of us, (6 couples) would go out for dinner twice a month together.

Unfortunately 4 of the group are smokers. We talked it over, and made the right decision for all. We stopped going out for dinner. On a rotation basis we go to eadh others homes twice a month for dinner and drinks. That has been ongoing since Jan, 1st,

Instead of spending around $1000.or more to eat out, we spend less than $200 to eat BETTER FOOD at home.







"

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jeff wrote on Feb 16, 2008 11:25 PM:

" First of all as a casino employee, the smoking ban hurts the money that i make to provide for my family, it hurts the economy because there is less money spent in business' that are non smoking.. the illinois government is losing a ton and i mean a ton of money due to the slow down of the casinos because of the heavy taxes that they levy on the casinos. This money goes into important things such as highways, educations, just to name a few.. I look for the ban to be exempted from casinos just from the financial stand point... NON Smoking is bad financially for the state of IL...So get off your high horses people.... the only real answer that i can see is have seperate non smoking floors from smoking floors.. There should be a law against stupid people but there isnt.... "

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Give Me a Break wrote on Feb 16, 2008 2:25 PM:

" The smoking ban is a good thing for all. IT is amazing to me that California, Florida, New York etc has done just fine with a smoking ban. Why can Illinois not be the same? IT CAN.
All these excuses that smoking ban is hurting business, give me a break. How about our wonderful economy, couldn't that be part of the problem? I think people need to quit whining and deal with it. This is a law, get over it or blame your legislators. "

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Derrick wrote on Feb 16, 2008 1:13 PM:

" Reply to www.searchgodsword.com posting, What are you talking about? I thought the topic of discussion was tobacco use banned in public places owned by private industry. The "Let freedom ring" was sarcasm for the government not allowing smoking in a business. I did not mention religion. "

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To My Lonely Little Valentine wrote on Feb 16, 2008 12:48 PM:

" I'm sorry you had to spend a romantic holiday alone. Now, please take your seat at the back of the class so you can admire me from AFAR....any closer and I may get spooked. :) "

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ellen wrote on Feb 16, 2008 9:07 AM:

" There have not been layoffs at the Metropolis casino. Staff have been reassigned to other positions of lower pay.

The recession not the smoking ban is what is hurting the casino. "

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the Dude wrote on Feb 16, 2008 3:16 AM:

" Why is the Illinois smoking law being blamed for the lack of patronage at the casinos, and for that matter other businesses? Are people so addicted to their habit they can't go an hour or two without lighting up? Face the fact that smokers are weak. They don't have a bad habit; a terrible addiction has them.
Now that I got that off of my chest I can delve deeper into the smoking issue from a psychological standpoint. The problem is smokers have not gone through the five stages of grief as described by Elizabeth Kubler-Ross: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance.
Currently, most smokers are still in either the denial or anger stage; therefore, they are not going to patron any place outside their home just to try to make a point. But as time goes on, however, they will accept the new law and start to go to these businesses once again. "

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Elliot Ness wrote on Feb 15, 2008 9:42 PM:

" Just remember folks, the government tried to tell people that drinking was bad for them in the 1920's and 30's. Even amended the Constitution to ban alcohol.....BUT GUESS WHAT???? Congress repealed prohibition because they really didn't stop consumption of alcohol in the US, and it gave rise to organized crime. It'll happen again. "

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Joey wrote on Feb 15, 2008 12:57 PM:

" Get over it. "

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RE Let's call a spade a spade please wrote on Feb 15, 2008 3:54 AM:

" After spending a lonely night alone on Valetimes day, I read your Comment. Thanks for turning me on. C.S Lewis, I never knew of him before. I really enjoyed his argument on Jesus' claims. He resulted in the three possible options: (1) Jesus was telling falsehoods and knew it, and so he was a liar. (2) Jesus was telling falsehoods but believed he was telling the truth, and so he was insane- Forgive me Jesus if writing such is a sin; yoou know my hidden heart, better than I do. (3) Jesus was telling the truth, and so he was divine. ANSWER 3- This was the easy multiple question that I ever had answered. Almost all worldly questions and answers do not feel like choices. Maybe I have found a divine worldly teacher. I certainly believe that I have. And, I actually like the study. I feel that I'm getting educated. What a teacher. Thanks again one from below. "

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Cont from just below. wrote on Feb 15, 2008 12:40 AM:

" The people could vote on what to call the jail "Crazy Land" or "La La Land" or something else. "

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re Happy wrote on Feb 15, 2008 12:21 AM:

" I personally have always thought and said that if they were going to allow drinking to be legal, that they should have a bar in the jails and being police. And, stay there if they chose to drink over a legal limit or under the influence of some other drug they chose to legally do there. And, if they want to jail hop, going from town to town, the police could be their taxi, but charge them a resonable fee. They could even have rooms for gambling, and harlots for the unmarried, who lack control, both female and males, with toys for sale. Rooms can legally be charge if they chose. And, the rooms can be available at a small fee. They can fight all they want, like the Jerry Springer show, but with voice and picture video, and a judge on the sight in the morning for a show and tell and viewers can come and watch, for a small fee, a course. But, the lawmakers and press get in free. And many can laugh laugh laugh! Lets accomidate this type of rebelion until they get sick and tired or give up life completely, which every comes first or last. For God's innocent children should not have such evil force in their lives. And anyone found in the public, drinking, driving under the influence ect ect ect, should be pentilized serverly. A PAL ACE, for who chose, with many smoking and non-smoking rooms... What a happier world I'd live in! Like a "Happy Place" for all to be. "

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Re Happy wrote on Feb 14, 2008 11:38 PM:

" I think that might have been in the plan of action. Still, for some time, I've worried about whether the smokers, drinkers, and gamblers taken home to the children? Maybe Mayor Butler is ahead of his time with wanting to hire more police. I wounder if there is more money for social services...? "

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CON'T RE What goes around wrote on Feb 14, 2008 11:28 PM:

" I'm sorry, do you have cancer? If so, I will be glad to try and do what I can to help you! However, I'm up against the fence, in knowing whether you are giving truthful statements, but I will meditate on your comment. And, I will certainly keep you in my thoughts, and prayers, whether you have sickness or think that you are in good health. Please know that concerned for you, for I should be. "

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re What comes around wrote on Feb 14, 2008 11:16 PM:

" I don't want anyone to smoke pot and I don't smoke in front of anyone! S.I. Did you open the such "crazy Land" doors again? I want to get rid of all delusional drugers, not just the "lawless." Maybe then we could all help ourselves to a reality and enjoy LIFE. "

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What comes around wrote on Feb 14, 2008 4:19 PM:

" I would be more than glad to help you get your "rights" back to smoke wherever you want if you were willing to help me get the right back to smoke pot in my own home. Guess you know how it feels to have someone else tell you what's good for you. At least I wouldn't be hurting others with my second hand smoke. "

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reply to Ed wrote on Feb 14, 2008 3:02 PM:

" I am a recovering gambler, and yes there is such a thing, and I'm working on being a recovering somker. Yes I hope my dwelling state be a HOUSE OF COMPLETE RESTORATION WITH REPRESTATION OF THE FAMILY. "

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TO PSALMS 1:1 AND MORE wrote on Feb 14, 2008 2:44 PM:

" I wanted to add that I believe the man applied in Psalm 1:1 means mankind. For, there are widows. There are also men with a hard-hearted spiritual dead marriage, many have left the world as we know it. In other words, many have went underground, some coming and going, some being risen, but only resting, yet are living, and some staying for eternal life. Still, all said and done, we can only live to have a family, A FATHER, A SON OF MAN also name JESUS, OUR BROTHER, OUR HUSBAND, ALL BEING ONE WITH THE HOLY SPIRITUAL GOD, and their true claims. They are owners of many more names, holding titles. None of which is a form of god that is fornication and adultery, soccery ect ect ect ect. And IN THE BOOK OF LIFE IN BOOK OF REVELATION JESUS WILL COME TO CLAIM HIS BRIDES, BOTH BEING MALE AND FEMALE TEMPLES, HIS BODY MEMBERS OF THE ONE TRUE CHURCH. "

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PERSONAL REPLY TO DEREK wrote on Feb 14, 2008 2:02 PM:

" You might want to look under the www.SONGS OF WISDOM.COM, but don't be fooled into the ones that are for sale. Or, you could go to the Holy Book Of Life. looking under SONG OF SONGS, PSALMS, SOLOMONS WISDOM IS GOOD. To find freedom, you need to keep looking. If you don't have one or can't buy one or don't want to buy one, go to a church or go to www.searchgodsword.com. Sincerely Sister along with the Holy Spirit. "

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Tom Gregg wrote on Feb 14, 2008 10:47 AM:

" Smoking should be banned in the USA period. "

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Free wrote on Feb 14, 2008 10:21 AM:

" Should we put lead back in the gas and mercury back in the thermometers? Get with the times people! It's for your own good! Since more people do not smoke than do smoke, majority should rule. Get used to it because smoking bans will be spreading across the country. Missouri is already discussing it. I have friends that wouldn't go out to bars and casinos because of the smoke, but now do. I see things picking up now. "

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Debbie wrote on Feb 14, 2008 9:29 AM:

" I know that not smoking is better for your health, I dont' smoke, but is it right to tell other people that they CAN'T? Isn't this taking AWAY their rights and freedoms? If smoke bothers me, I move to a different spot. If someone is old enough to vote, fight for our country, drink, and buy cigs. legally.....Leave them ALONE!!! "

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Happy wrote on Feb 14, 2008 7:04 AM:

" This story show some great spin-off effects of the smoking ban. Not only do we get to breathe cleaner air, but casinos and bars are losing money. Everyone wins! "

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re Ed wrote on Feb 13, 2008 9:03 PM:

" Maybe the gamblers at the East St. Louis Casino were trying to make up for Christmas loses, doesn't work. If they keep going at it, one might come out ahead, or they will lose more with such lies, that you can bet on, if you choose to gamble. I am a recovered gambler of 4 years, and proud of it. "

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re Re Unwanted Dead Or Alive wrote on Feb 13, 2008 8:50 PM:

" I'm truly sorry if you thought that I was telling you that the government needs to tell you how you should live, as you stated. I'm wanting to imply that that I want the government to care for all, especially the weak, in hopes for divine will to strengthen. I cerainly am not saying that. Let the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, united as one, be your pesonal judgment, for that IS WILL, or not. Whatever you or I... choose it to be. I know that I personally don't want to be wrong, I try my best to be true to others and know that only can I be control my own lustful flesh, for only I can be true to myself. "

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CON"T re Re UNWANTED DEAD OR ALIVE wrote on Feb 13, 2008 8:21 PM:

" If someone could and, or would try to give me some spiritual guidence to Psalm 1:1, I'd greatly appreaciate it. My true legal will which the All Knowing has read for it is written in the my hidden heart, is that we all be our One True Father's joint heirs. "

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re Re To Unwanted Dead or Alive wrote on Feb 13, 2008 8:14 PM:

" Yes godly one. I know that I will make it to a death bed, and favor the side with no smoking permitted. Yet as I have openly and honestly admitted, I do lack control in the one, no smoking area. As we all have "choices," yet we all are week and lack and fall short, some more than others. Does this mean that we should allow all worldy drugs to be enjoyed for anyone, anywhere anytime. Many times We all need A Father(God)and Big brother(Jesus), And we certainly our in our lives, whether we acknowledge, like it or, and, or whether we want them in our lives, just as we have a father of lives dwelling the spiritual relm, most call world. Also just as it is written, their is a purpose for a government, whether they say and do not, and not to be like like that, but still there is a purpose for authority and the laws that are to be followed, even worldly laws. I have truly struggled alot with this and I know that I have been strenghened not weakend with a healthier environment that mostly because of better choices. Still diseases exist in many different forms. And, yes I look forward to an even better state, a pl ace to dwell in the fleshly house and all worldly houses of business. Finally in a heavenly kingdom for all God's children. As yes I pray for a government that has good works, one that allows self-defenses and socializations that do not teach all God's children that we are only part of an animial kingdom that dies, were puffing the majic dragon who lives in a dead sea is perhibited. Smoker or not! Sincerly, could some one help me with the one verse in the book of life, except for some writings in Revelations, I have not been able to finish the fulfillment, struggling some with the spiritual writings, in the book of Psalms, chapter 1 and verse 1 - Blessed {is} the man that walked not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor sitteth in the law of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. "

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re Derrick wrote on Feb 13, 2008 7:10 PM:

" SHOW ME THE MONEY? Where's the jobs? I believe "LET FREEDOM RING" is sill a song, but is being sang in the the original verson, the tone being, given and received in the psalms verse of a true freedom to choose, one that matters for all life. "

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Derrick wrote on Feb 13, 2008 10:39 AM:

" I'm not a smoker, but I believe in freedom. If business wants to allow it's clients to smoke in their establishments, then let them. I have a choice whether or not to be a patron of any business in this country. If I don't want to be in an environment where there are smokers then I can choose to leave. People are not forced to be in an evironment they believe is hazardous to their health. Workers also choose to be employed at these types establishments. I'm tired of the government telling me what's good for me. "Let freedom ring" is only a line in a song anymore. "

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To Mr. Grady wrote on Feb 13, 2008 6:33 AM:

" How many of the laid off workers at the casino were smokers and how many non smokers? Casino workers new it was a smoking facility before they took the job, if they wanted to breath clean air they should not be working there. Its there choice. To Swoik-if the game rooms are made exempt then why not other places that are loosing money also? Doesn't seem fair. Maybe due to the lose of revenue to the state? Well what about the lose to business owners? "

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I Agree with Lynda Farley wrote on Feb 13, 2008 6:27 AM:

" I to have lived in ILL all my life. I spend my money where I can enjoy a smoke. Now, that means Missouri. Not that far. Don't go to ILL bars/restaurants/casinos anymore, Why go when you have to go outside to smoke, you can do that at home,so your either staying home or going out of state.Thanks to Ill I am now spending my money in Missouri. Lets just wait and see how many more lay offs in ILL due to this supid ban. More families on welfare that we the tax payers will pay for, cause the unemployment rate is high already in ILL before this stupid ban. We can all thank the Gov. "

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RE: The Unwanted Dead or Alive wrote on Feb 12, 2008 10:09 PM:

" Not to worry, you will make it to a death bed...we all do. I just see you as weak minded and weak willed. You say, "I feel that sometimes we don't know what's best for us, just as we don't always know what's wrong for us." Are you trying to say that "we" as a collective society "can't decide", and need the government to tell us how to live our lives? BULLHOCKEY! This smoking ban law is just one step toward the socialization of not just this state, but the country. This is the kind of retoric our polititians want us to believe, that they are doing this for the betterment of our society. I DO feel sorry for anyone who has or will die from cancer, but it was their choice! But don't sit there and tell me the government needs to tell us how to live! By the way, I'm a non-smoker, and I have always said that the no smoking law was a crock! "

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doc wrote on Feb 12, 2008 9:44 PM:

" I can tell you one reason that the revenue is down. You no longer have a shot at winning anything there. (Metropolis). Please do not get me wrong. I KNOW you lose on slots. I used to go two or three times a month. I take $100 with me and I expect to lose it. It is (was) entertainment for me. I used to be able to play an hour or two, before it was gone. The last 10 times I went, I was broke in less than 10 minutes. Many time never getting even one coin back. That is why I quit. I know many regulars that never go anymore for that reason. Your money does not last long enough for you to want or need a cigarette. "

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RE BobbR wrote on Feb 12, 2008 5:52 PM:

" OH OOHH..OOOHHH...OOOOHHHH.... OOOOOHHHHH..... OOOOOOHHHHHH...... OOOOOOOHHHHHHH.......! DON'T WORRY BE HAPPY, DON'T WORRY BE HAPPY, NOW! "

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TO THE BAN wrote on Feb 12, 2008 5:44 PM:

" I am the writer who wrote " To THE UNWANTED DEAD AND ALIVE." Recently, I got to see my cousin who I hadn't seen but heard a lot about, on the local news, WSIL T.V. He was on T.V. as an opposer to the smoke ban. Another cousin of mine, who was raised in Indiana, had previous been on T.V. because of his delusional behavior, running from police and soo much more. Although I have not talked to either one in many many years. Still I love them both anyway and care about their lack of control and, or wrongful control, and what they are going through, and what they put others through and would liketo see a better way for them and their families. I'd like to see them be better fathers, MEN, and not another repeat of dysfunctional families. One final note, I too have lost because of smoking and gambling, and most of it was my own fault, but now I have been truly collecting winnings and putting many treasures in in my heavenly account were they belong. See Holy Book Of Life under treasures and, or heaven. "

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Ed wrote on Feb 12, 2008 4:04 PM:

" At the East St. Louis Casino, the number of visitors was UP 10 percent in January. And that's with smoking casinos right across the river. True, their revenues were down 2 percent, meaning people were spending less time at the machines. Could the soft economy have something to do with people spending less? I certainly think so. It sure doesn't look as cut and dried as the posters here would have you believe. "

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JJ wrote on Feb 12, 2008 11:29 AM:

" Re: Which Story Is Correct? Did you call the Illinois Legislature "stupid"? Good grief man, you failed to mention "80% corrupt", "

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SCOTT wrote on Feb 12, 2008 10:22 AM:

" IF ROD WANTS TO HELP PEOPLE, DONT ENFORCE THIS LAW, BAR WILL CLOSE, I OWN ONE, MY CASH IS WAY DOWN. IF THEY WANT TO BAN SOMETHING, HAVE YOU EVER LOOKED A ALL THE HI ENERGY DRINKS, LOLLIPOPS, THAT ARE TARGETED FOR KIDS, THIS IS STUIPID, IM 43 YRS OLD AND THEY NEVER HAD ENERGY DRINKS, BUT I DONT THINK I EVER NEEDED ONE. THEY NEED TO PUT AT LEAST 18 TO BUY, THAT WOULD BE A GOOD BAN. BUT PUTTING A LAW THAT WILL KILL MY SMALL LITTLE BAR IS WRONG "

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smoke , smoke, smoke wrote on Feb 12, 2008 10:07 AM:

" smoke smoke smoke that cigarette....puff puff puff away and smoke yourself to death....tell st peter at the pearly gate....hes just gonna have to wait.....cause you gotta have another cigarette.....hahahahahahahahahaha "

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Patrick L. wrote on Feb 12, 2008 9:31 AM:

" Any activity that causes death of innocent bystanders, not to mention direct participants, is stupid, cruel and endangers the lives of all.

My question: how many of these smokers oppose abortion, but have no problems lighting their poison around an actual growing human child because it is their "right" to do so.

Quit. It's that simple. It is a right for others in this world to breathe clean air. "

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Government and well-meaning org. wrote on Feb 12, 2008 8:47 AM:

" The bar and restaurant business is fiercely competitive, and the people running venues are smart enough to do everything they can to increase their bottom line. If banning smoking really were good for their business, wouldn't they have discovered it by now, and wouldn't that make laws mandating bans unnecessary?

Crooked politicians aside, the anti-smoking movement DOES consist of those who are genuinely concerned about the health of U.S. citizens, like the American Cancer Society. Unfortunately, the ACS has stooped to the level of using "junk science" studies to further their "well-intended" agenda. The fact still remains that second-hand smoke does NOT pose a real threat to those breathing it. It all boils down to the antics of the misguided/lying politicians and whining non-smokers who will stop at nothing to force their own brand of morality and preferences/choices onto every U.S. citizens. Our founding fathers must be rolling over in their graves on this one! "

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Let's continue to call a spade a spade please wrote on Feb 12, 2008 8:08 AM:

" Studies funded by anti-smoker groups achieve their numbers by:

- Including many business which are not affected by bans
- Under-representing businesses that are the most impacted by bans.
- Excluding many of the businesses that are most devastated by the bans (Bars, Bingo Halls, Pool Rooms, Bowling Alleys, Distributors, etc.)
- Ignoring the issue of compliance.

In addition to these facts, the studies used by the militant anti-smoking groups to promote their agenda are easily debunked. The million (billion or trillion?) dollar question here is, "Does second hand smoke cause cancer in non-smokers?" How accurate are their claims in the first place? Do some real research on the subject. It's not difficult to locate. After that, start researching the most effective ways to get this ridiculous law overturned. And once again, if you don't want to breathe the second-hand smoke, go somewhere else! "

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Let's call a spade a spade please wrote on Feb 12, 2008 7:42 AM:

" "Of all tyrannies a tyranny exercised for the good of its victim may be the most oppressive. It may be better to live under robber barons than under omnipotent moral busybodies. The robber baron's cruelty may sometimes sleep, his cupidity may at some point be satiated, but those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end for they do so with the approval of their own conscience.
- C.S. Lewis. " "

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Ruth wrote on Feb 12, 2008 6:56 AM:

" bluto wrote on Feb 11, 2008 2:10 PM:
" Ruth,
Read the law before spouting off about what you dont know "

Maybe you are the one who should go back and re-read the Illinois Smoke-Free law. It does not state how the ban is to be enforced, nor who is to enforce the law. No way for people receiving the fines to appeal them, and absolutely NO DUE PROCESS of the law.

A couple of other states have also faced this problem; Texas for instance. "

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Which Story Is Correct? wrote on Feb 12, 2008 6:53 AM:

" From a recent story in the SI: An anti-smoking casino proprietor in Indiana, arranged for a no-smoking floor in one of his own casinos. Great idea? No! His non-smoking floor was void of gamblers and his entire casino now allows smoking. The SI story also indicated that Indiana's gaming commission loves the Illinois legislature, because our lawmakers are too stupid to recognize that they are sending substantial revenue to Indiana. "

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Ruth wrote on Feb 12, 2008 6:40 AM:

" I have studied the no-smoking law for Illinois very throughly. Technically, what I wrote is absolutely correct. That is why a few State Prosecuting attorneys have told local police not to ticket smokers in public places; and also why at least one State Representative has gone on record as stating the law needs more work, because there is no guarnantee "due process " of the law for the people receiving the fines. "

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xxx wrote on Feb 12, 2008 5:58 AM:

" Come on all you non smokers get out to the casinos and saloons and save these peoples JOBS! The non smokers said the smoking ban would help business! The non smokers would be out spending more money because they would not half to be in a smoke filled Enviroment. It looks like to me that you lied! Now hard working people that need these jobs to support their children, are loseing there jobs! So think about the child that might go to bed hungry tonite because mom or dad lost their job. Because you are to cheap to get out and spend your money to support this no smoking ban. "

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TO THE UNWANTED DEAD AND ALIVE wrote on Feb 12, 2008 12:00 AM:

" As a current smoker and for over 20 years, I have to say that smoking is terrible to the health and innocent children. It is the only strong-hold that I have not been able to get a hold of. Still, I did learn long ago to not force others to inhale my smoke and promote such ignorance. And, yes I've been know to blame the government. I continue to pray that I stop before my death, for I may not make it to a death bed. And, I certainly don't want to die with a cig in my mouth, or smoke rolling out from my last breath. Nor do I want to die being responsible for some one elses bad health and,or death. I truly agree that it is not right to business owners, when cigs are still being sold on the market. But, I hope that we are taken steps to just that, for I lack the self-control. I would also like to say that if our Illinois government could carless about us and they were greedy as many claim that they want the social security people... to die, I feel that they would not being paying for soo many childrens heath care and have such a non smoking law. Many are ignorant to the truth in the fact that smoking is bad to peoples health and many just don't care that innocent and vunerable ones are being affected with their ignorant decisions. I have to admit that I gambled for over 20 years, playing bingo for many years, and when I finally quit 4 years ago, I know that I did the right thing, and I'm sorrow to say that it was my son's wreck is what enabled me to quit bingo and it took my son's love when quitting earlier worldy lustful addictions. I do still go out to eat as much as I always did, I just take it home, or I just don't stay at the restaurant as long, which should be good for the business. I don't want to see any one lose their jobs. I pray that we in Illinois and in other ban smoking states grow to have healthier jobs and families with a better environment. I feel that sometimes we don't know whats best for us just as we don't always know what is wrong for us. But, to me this smoking ban is good for the public health and that we make must make it over the mountain to see just that. I pray and believe that there are future jobs waiting soon over the mountain that aid us with the right kind of health care. And, for others with such states of minds be nations( people)to follow us. In jesus' name, Amen. "

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Lynda Farley wrote on Feb 11, 2008 11:04 PM:

" Recreational venues ALWAYS suffer from smoking bans. There are about 70 MILLION Americans who do NOT WANT to quit smoking. It isn't about nicotine, people ENJOY smoking, and you can't keep the stinkin' patches LIT. I will NEVER spend recreation money (INCLUDING for a restaurant meal), if I am supposed to 'enjoy' my smoke standing outdoors in inclement weather, like the new leper class. NOT happening. I was born in IL, and now travel a lot. I completely boycott ALL states, counties, and cities where I can not enjoy a restaurant meal due to a smoking ban. You can pass stoopid unconstitutional laws, but you CAN NOT tell me where to spend my money. I don't think it's fair that only bars and restaruants pay for the stoopid smoking bans, so I also try not to buy gas or shop, OR buy produce and products from that state (county or city)either. I've also been pulling my bank accounts out of ban areas. If you don't like my smoke, you don't like my money, either. "

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Thomas wrote on Feb 11, 2008 5:44 PM:

" The bandwagon of local smoking bans now steamrolling across the nation has nothing to do with protecting people from the supposed threat of "second-hand" smoke. Indeed, the bans are symptoms of a far more grievous threat, a cancer that has been spreading for decades and is the only real hazard involved 鈥 the cancer of unlimited government power. The issue is not whether second-hand smoke is a real danger or a phantom menace, as a study published recently in the British Medical Journal indicates. The issue is: if it were harmful, what would be the proper reaction? Should anti-tobacco activists satisfy themselves with educating people about the potential danger and allowing them to make their own decisions, or should they seize the power of government and force people to make the "right" decision? Loudly billed as measures that only affect "public places," they have actually targeted private places: restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, 鈥 whose customers are free to go elsewhere.

All decisions involve risks; some have harmful consequences; most are controversial and invite disapproval from the neighbours. But the individual must be free to make these decisions. Yet when it comes to smoking, this freedom is under attack. Smokers are a minority, practising a habit considered annoying and unpleasant to the majority. So the majority has simply commandeered the power of government and used it to dictate their behaviour.

Thomas Laprade
"

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History Buff wrote on Feb 11, 2008 5:20 PM:

" There's a new motto going across the country:
'No Smoke = No Go = No Dough'.
It saves a lot of money for the spender too! "

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BobbR wrote on Feb 11, 2008 2:51 PM:

" Could the economy have something to do with lower sales volume? The chickens are coming home to roost. Trickle down economics never did trickle down. For 7 of the pst 8 years Republicans have ruled the White House and Congress. Jobs shipped overseas, lower wages, high coal mining unemployment, higher gasoline bills, high home heating bills, higher health insurance costs, higher drug costs, massive government bureaucraccy on homeland and military spending, and open borders for illegal immegrants to steal our jobs and work for rich farm plantation owners is the Republican way. No wonder people have no discretionary income left over to enjoy more time at a casino, a bar, a restaurant, or shopping. The radical right has now made it possible for your entire paycheck to be delivered to the drug companies, health insurance companies, and big oil as dividends for their past campaign contibutions. Sorry, no money left for the casino and a cigarette. Also, thank the radical right for lower taxes.........there's nothing left after payday to tax!!! "

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breather wrote on Feb 11, 2008 2:14 PM:

" This is just awful, does this mean the people of this state and those around are not throwing as much money away on gambling? (asked with tongue in cheek). Get a life, who cares...except maybe the people of metropolis who have bet their livlihoods on other people's other idiotic habit...gambling "

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bluto wrote on Feb 11, 2008 2:10 PM:

" Ruth,
Are you really that ignorant of the law? The owner may not have to enforce the smoking ban but they open themselves up for a citation too...for not stopping the obnoxious boob who feels it is his right to damage not only his lungs but everyone around him. Read the law before spouting off about what you dont know "

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Geez wrote on Feb 11, 2008 1:53 PM:

" Get over it!!!!! There are 13 states that currently have a restrictive ban such as Illinois with many other states that have less restrictive bans. Face it, it will eventually be a law everywhere that smoking in any public place will be outlawed. It surprises me that Illinois took so long to do it. Georgia has been smoke free since 2005. "

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Virgil Kleinhelter wrote on Feb 11, 2008 1:26 PM:

" It's not just Casinos, it's entire cities. Here in Louisville people are going to the surrounding counties to eat and drink, play bingo and other forms of entertainment. I have been active in stopping bans in the surrounding counties and they are happy to take Louisville's business. I made sure they knew the truth and they took the time to look at the real facts.
They now know the Fraud being spread by the ACS, AMA, EPA and the Health Department. The ACS uses our tax money and funds provided by Johnson & Johnson through the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to literally buy bans. They spent $200,000 to get the ban passed here in Louisville and $4 million in Chicago. The fraudulent EPA report was vacated by Federal Judge Osteen as a fraud and the ACS still uses the 3,000 faked deaths to prove their point. Over 150+ studies found no connection of Cancer or Heart Disease to SHS and WHO found that children of smokers were 22% less likely to contract cancer and they still deny their own study. This is the myth of the century. "

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Watch out wrote on Feb 11, 2008 10:52 AM:

" I have a feeling that this is only the beginning. On a related note, I know of many "establishments" throughout the area that are deliberately ignoring the smoking ban. I wonder how long it will take before the state intervenes. I have a feeling that the state is going to really crack down once this thing has been in effect for a couple months. It could get interesting... "

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Ruth wrote on Feb 11, 2008 9:28 AM:

" Smoking bans force you to remove ashtrays, hang a sign, and tell your patrons there is no smoking. They DO NOT force you to enforce the law.
There is no legal requirement for an owner to take ''specific action'' when someone is smoking.
This makes all smoking bans illegal unless your State or town wants to train you, supply liability insurance, sign you on as police AND make it a law that anyone they want must be forced into police duty. Your 16 year old son washing dishes in a restaurant would have to go to the police academy because he may have to uphold the smoking ban law.
Remove these un-enforceable laws from your books NOW to avoid law suits. Every worker has the right to sue you when hurt, your ban opens you up for liability
Petition the general Assembly. "

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Bill Hannegan wrote on Feb 11, 2008 2:15 AM:

" The American Cancer Society pressured the Illinois legislature to impose a smoking ban on bars and restaurants with an alarming, yet misleading, claim: "One eight-hour shift in a smoke-filled workplace is the equivalent of smoking 16 cigarettes."

The study the group cites in support of this claim, however, merely suggests that eight hours in a smoky workplace might provide 16 cigarettes' worth of one chemical: NDMA (N- nitroso-dimethylamine), a chemical far more present in secondhand smoke than actively inhaled smoke.

Does this mean that a bartender in a previously smoky Illinois bar was automatically a 16-cigarette-a-day passive smoker? No way. Research by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory found that the amount of smoke a bartender breathes is far less. The research showed that the total tobacco-specific particles actually inhaled by a bartender in a smoky bar equals about one-fifth of a cigarette per eight-hour shift, or one cigarette per 40-hour week.

The tricky 16-cigarette claim by the Cancer Society may have swayed a close smoking ban vote in the legislature. Is a law based on such a phony claim valid?

"

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Peter wrote on Feb 11, 2008 1:07 AM:

" Did anyone ask the dealers how they feel about working in a smoke free enviroment, or anyone else working at the Casino.
Goverment say this is good for YOU, and where doing this for YOU.
Why don't YOU ask me how i feel, instead of telling me. "

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ohio bar owner wrote on Feb 10, 2008 11:12 PM:

" Mr. Grady: the lies the ACS has spewed "no harm to business" is as big a lie as is the fact the ACS didn't make MILLIONS from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Ohio's bars are dying. Hear me? DYING. The "long term impact", to which you refer, means the few bars who DO manage to stay open "long term" get customers from all the bars that closed. Anheuser Busch distributor sales DOWN 7.8%. Draft beer DOWN 8.1% Sales to drive thrus/carry outs UP 1.7%. FACT. Not like your propaganda. You act like our businesses are just objects, they're expendible. We're PEOPLE. We've put everything we own on the line to own our own businesses. Why don't you tell the readers how much the ACS has made off the RWJF? Why don't you tell them the RWJF is Johnson & Johnson, makers of Nicoderm, Nicorette & pshcyotic drug Chantrix? The RWJF paid for these bans for pure greed as did the ACS for their part. They PAY you to market their products (over a MILLION Dollars), PAID you to lobby Medicaid to pay for NRTs. Tell me, Mr. Grady, while we're talking propaganda, who are the 53,000 who die every year from SHS? Post the names for the past 2 years in this paper & prove to the readers it wasn't all a big marketing strategy. "

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Meowmmy wrote on Feb 10, 2008 11:01 PM:

" I think the best way to determine a 'weather factor' is to ask the surrounding states how their business has been. I was to casino in Indiana last week and I asked several employees if they have noticed an increase in business since the Illinois ban went into effect. The answer I got was a resounding "Oh Yeah!". "

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Jay wrote on Feb 10, 2008 10:51 PM:

" Casino workers have a right to work anywhere. But who said casino workers mind working in smokey air? If they don't like the smokey air, they wouldn't work at the casino period.

Smoking areas in a casino would be a start. And smoking areas would assure those workers get their paychecks. They might lose their jobs with fewer customers going into a smoke-free casino. Harrah's in Joliet has laid off tons of their workers already. "

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dinosaur wrote on Feb 10, 2008 6:01 PM:

" This is what the great socialists running this state bring you. less freedom, less liberty, less free choice, less income, fewer jobs. As long as you keep electing Democrats, you will keep getting these results. How warm and fuzzy do you feel now? "

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gassed off! wrote on Feb 10, 2008 4:55 PM:

" Are there other businesses that are claiming their revenue is down? Yes, but they aren't providing state revenue. So, it's just "tough" for them. No known plans to reconsidered smoking ban for them. "

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Chimney wrote on Feb 10, 2008 10:17 AM:

" Well, Mr. Grady.........what about IF they have no job to go to? "

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Puffer MaGee wrote on Feb 10, 2008 7:55 AM:

" I would go to the Evansville Casino instead of Metropolis since the smoking ban, because as my name states I am a smoker. Why should OUR rights be taken away? "

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