ksnewsie (anonymous) says...

Recount!!

April 10, 2009 at 2:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Chevelle_Joe (anonymous) says...

Yikes that is close!!

April 10, 2009 at 2:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

slimbolen99 (anonymous) says...

SIX votes. WOW.

April 10, 2009 at 2:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

driveonby (anonymous) says...

Headline says "smoking Ban defeated by 6 Votes". According to your tally the ban passed by six. Another right on top of it story by the Gazette. WHICH is it?

April 10, 2009 at 2:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

ksnewsie (anonymous) says...

It is too close. The only way to be sure is a recount!!

April 10, 2009 at 2:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

mmstormont (anonymous) says...

AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!

April 10, 2009 at 2:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

ksnewsie (anonymous) says...

Either way, it is too close....we need a recount to be sure. Otherwise, we'll all be wondering...RECOUNT!!

April 10, 2009 at 2:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

kittenslvsu (anonymous) says...

I vote recount to close to call hope the recount goes the other way

April 10, 2009 at 2:40 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

DJrocksthemic (anonymous) says...

I agree I'm confused the story doesn't match the talley. Did it pass or no????

April 10, 2009 at 2:40 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

reality (anonymous) says...

This is a sad, sad day.

April 10, 2009 at 2:40 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

slvrnblck (anonymous) says...

KVOE annonced that the Yes votes won. The Gazette article must be wrong.

April 10, 2009 at 2:41 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

difference_of_opinion (anonymous) says...

They just recounted all the votes...how many recounts do you need? It passed when will you accept that? Bow out gracefully as you all agreed to do.

April 10, 2009 at 2:43 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

driveonby, That is the calibur of the reporting by the Gazette. I won't believe it until I see it several times and know without a doubt that the ban was defeated !
Right now I am so pleased, but optomisticly cautious !

April 10, 2009 at 2:44 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

reality (anonymous) says...

There is no point in questioning this any further. The people who want more of governement telling them how to live, when to breathe, when to pee, when to eat, etc. have won. There is no point in arguing with a bunch of mindless drones.

April 10, 2009 at 2:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

peanutbutter (anonymous) says...

I think the only one's demanding a recount are the one's who don't want the BAN to pass.

April 10, 2009 at 2:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Maximus (anonymous) says...

Standby.....for the conspiracy theorists.

April 10, 2009 at 2:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

ksnewsie (anonymous) says...

Lord knows I wanted the ban to pass. BUT, I would feel better if it passed by a wide margin. It did not, so to be sure and be safe about the vote, I think it needs a recount of ALL ballots. Six votes is way to close without further scrutiny.

And yes, the Gazette dropped it big time.

April 10, 2009 at 2:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

pangrac (anonymous) says...

driveonby, the Gazette headline read, 'Smoking ban enacted by 6 votes '. 'ENACTED' not 'defeated'.

April 10, 2009 at 2:50 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

booker5m (anonymous) says...

You wanted a vote because didnt think it would pass.Now you had your vote. Sit still and be quiet

April 10, 2009 at 2:51 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

difference_of_opinion (anonymous) says...

There weren't enough voters for there to be a wide margin. Way to go Emporia registered voters!!

April 10, 2009 at 2:51 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

sociallyconsious (anonymous) says...

Where in the gazette do you see that the ban was defeated? According to everything posted online it states that the band was enacted. Which means the yes votes won. This is exactly what it states at the top of this blog. Where's the confusion? Emporia has a smoking ban.

Per earlier comments both sides stated they would not ask for a recount. Democracy worked. Lets move on. Tomorrow is a new day....

April 10, 2009 at 2:51 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

difference_of_opinion (anonymous) says...

And pangrac it did say defeated by 6 when it was 1st published they just updated it to say the correct thing.

April 10, 2009 at 2:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

epona (anonymous) says...

So how long before we can force it to another vote? It wont take long for people to realize their rights are being stepped on.

April 10, 2009 at 2:53 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

epona (anonymous) says...

So how long before we can force it to another vote? It wont take long for people to realize their rights are being stepped on.

April 10, 2009 at 2:53 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

kittenslvsu (anonymous) says...

Democcracy failed Govenment takes control how long till we turn to having no say and turn communist ???????

April 10, 2009 at 2:56 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

brad66801 (anonymous) says...

SWEET this day just keeps getting better, i might wanna go buy a lottery ticket. AWESOME

April 10, 2009 at 2:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jmcmannis (anonymous) says...

I was there the ban was passed, we have been pushed closer to a tyrannical goverment

I am mad but the people spoke, I pray there is a recount but I do not know if there is one. You have to pony up $250 bond for a recount by Monday and if the side who wanted a recount if they lose they will have to pay the cost of the recount

The ban takes effect 12 am tonight

April 10, 2009 at 2:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

kittenslvsu (anonymous) says...

Democracy failed Govenment takes control how long till we turn to having no say and turn communist ???????

April 10, 2009 at 2:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

irishemporia (anonymous) says...

I agree with Newsy. Much as I like that it passed, that vote margin is too narrow for comfort. Should there be another recount? Maybe.

Maybe the few of us who posted consistently should have spent less time arguing and more time getting people to vote. While 25+ percent is nothing to sneeze at, especially for a spring election, 50+ percent would have been so much better.

Stevie, Matt and all others who had a stake in this election, I hope it proves to be a boon to your business. As promised, I will be a patron. I hope others will, too.

April 10, 2009 at 2:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

kittenslvsu (anonymous) says...

This is a Sad day for Emporia.

April 10, 2009 at 3 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

tbluma (anonymous) says...

Now will see how many of the cae crowd show up at the bars they were boycotting before the ban passed and then if it's a token visit or a truely genuine patronage of consistant business.

April 10, 2009 at 3:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jasonesu (anonymous) says...

I noticed that they stated why they wanted some of the previsional ballots counted, but did not state why they did not want the others counted. I find that interesting. Well look out county residents Teresa Ms Clean Air Emporia will become Teresa Clean Area Lyon County now. It should be a little easier for her to shove it down everyones throat now that she has the power of being a commissioner, and I bet she will use it.

April 10, 2009 at 3:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

irishemporia (anonymous) says...

How did democracy fail?

A group of citizens took their idea to government.
Government took action.
A group of citizen, who did not like government's action,
took it to a vote.
The PEOPLE (not government) voted, and it won by six votes.

FOLKS, that is exactily what democracy is. By the People, For the People, Of the People.

April 10, 2009 at 3:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

giggles (anonymous) says...

I don't know who keeps saying that the losers need to bow out gracefully. They have the right to fight for their freedoms, just as you, telling them to stop is very un-democratic and un-American. The margin is too small, even the best polls have a margin of error. You have to at least take into consideration there may be some error.
You don't have to agree with their determination, but you can't tell them to stop either.

April 10, 2009 at 3:05 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

old_soldier (anonymous) says...

According to my boss, the ban takes effect immediately!

April 10, 2009 at 3:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

irishemporia (anonymous) says...

Jason,
I would support a countywide ban, just like I supported a citywide ban.
And, if a group of people want it, they should take it to the government,
and the government should let the people vote,
and the people -- just like they did in the city election -- should decide whether they want a countywide smoking ban.

And just in case you want to expand the boundaries, the same applies to the state, and the country, in my opinion.

IF you don't like that, I would suggest moving to a country where the people have no say.

April 10, 2009 at 3:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Maximus (anonymous) says...

Standy.....for the Hitler quotes.

April 10, 2009 at 3:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jmcmannis (anonymous) says...

I am just so sick to my stomach I do not know what to say. This is a dark day in American and Emporia History when the vote of a few wants to take my rights away. I am terrified of what this may lead to.
T. Walters, CAE you should be stripped of your commission chair and bannished from Emporia for destroying the rights granted to us by the founders of these United States Of America. We granted unalienable rights and today you started stripping those rights away leading us closer toward a tyrannical goverment. I for one will not stand for it.

Say no to tyranny.

Raise glass laddies and lasses to drink away the pain of your rights being stripped away and pull out ur coin purses because the police are going to start writing tickets.

April 10, 2009 at 3:09 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jasonesu (anonymous) says...

I already live in a community where the people have no say. Our commissioners passed this ordinance and should have never done that prior to a vote. The commissioners and Zimmerman are dictators, he tries to run Emporia like it is a suburb of Chicago, maybe he should go back to his roots and let us get back to ours.

April 10, 2009 at 3:10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

irishemporia (anonymous) says...

McMannis: Forget it. This was a decision made by THE PEOPLE of Emporia, not government.

April 10, 2009 at 3:12 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jmcmannis (anonymous) says...

Old soldier the ban does not take effect until midnight. That means business owners have 10 hrs to get ready for the ban to take effect.

Of course it is going to be near impossible since most bars are open already and to convert by midnight will take a herculean effort on the part of business and bar owners.

April 10, 2009 at 3:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Walts37 (anonymous) says...

I have not smoked for over 10 years but sure glad I do not live in Emporia or a town like it any longer. WoW WHAT is next Emporia dogooders. NO EATING CANDY after 6 pm.
~~Walts37~~

April 10, 2009 at 3:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Maximus (anonymous) says...

To recap what irishemporia so eloquently stated:

How did democracy fail?

A group of citizens took their idea to government.
Government took action.
A group of citizens, who did not like government's action,
took it to a vote.
The PEOPLE (not government) voted, and it won by six votes.

April 10, 2009 at 3:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Chevelle_Joe (anonymous) says...

The bars aren't going to lose any of my business.. I like beer and whiskey and the bar scene too much to let smoking or second hand smoke ruin it for me. I didn't support ether side of this issue but hey.. look at the bright side.. at least I'll probably live ten years longer than I would have and I'll spend ten more years worth of money at the bar. Its instances like that that may help to offset the loss of business from the ban passing.

April 10, 2009 at 3:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

gemini (anonymous) says...

I don't think EITHER side needs to be gloating right now. The ban passed and I'm thankful for it, however it is a bittersweet victory.

Many will be pleased that they can eat and gather without the threat of SHS, including myself, however it has torn the town in two. Bad feelings are going to be harbored for a long time and that is very sad.

The ban was going to go into effect anyway before petitions were passed to allow this to go to a vote. I signed a petition because although I am in favor of the ban, it was a decision the people of the city needed to make. The city has spoken (albeit not MUCH of the city) so we need to stop the bickering. Nothing is going to be accomplished by it now.

April 10, 2009 at 3:14 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jmcmannis (anonymous) says...

Irish but it was the goverment who had the final say in what provisional ballots would be accepted or not and they had the say when the votes were read to second the motion.

So yes the people had the say but the goverment had the final say.

April 10, 2009 at 3:14 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

seeya32 (anonymous) says...

The reason it was so close was the laws on the books were fine,but oh no ,the special few always get what they want. I did a count the other night in the Fiest book and we counted 60 non smoking restaurant/bars and 8 where you could smoke,I dont think this shouldve ever gotten this far,time and money spent that mightve been better spent elsewhere. I do know of a couple of restaraunt/bar owners who will not be very happy.I had to chuckle about this the other night,my wife who is age 52 and has never smoked in her life said if this ban was upheld,she would go to her business and take up smoking Ha Ha,I really did think this was funny!!!I I know she wont do it but it made her feel better

April 10, 2009 at 3:15 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

irishemporia (anonymous) says...

Give the bar owners a little credit. How hard will it be to put out the cigarettes and put away the ashtrays.

My bigger concern is for the smokers who have so little respect for the bar owners that they refuse to quit smoking.

The bar owners consider themselves in a bad situation with this new ban. Do the smokers want to make it worse by defying the will of the people and lighting up in the bars after midnight?

April 10, 2009 at 3:15 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

pbpw (anonymous) says...

The people of CAE and all the pro-smokeing ban proponents should remember that sometimes when you win you lose - and I believe this is one of those times. The divisions caused by this ban will be remembered for a very long time.

April 10, 2009 at 3:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

irishemporia (anonymous) says...

McMannis: I don't think you understand how the election process works. No matter. The process worked -- win or lose.

If you want change, run for office, be an activist, or otherwise do something about it.

April 10, 2009 at 3:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

madpoet (anonymous) says...

I love how they have to wait months to start collecting the new sales tax even when it had been announced way ahead of time but the ban starts with 10 hours notice. On a holiday, no less. My bosses are all gone today. That is true of a lot of businesses. What a joke. I hope Ms. Walters doesn't starting cruising businesses to ticket tonight.

April 10, 2009 at 3:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

support_thesmokingban (anonymous) says...

This is a Great day in Emporia!!
if it would have gone down Emporia would have been the first in the state of Kansas to vote the smoking ban down!!

April 10, 2009 at 3:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

irishemporia (anonymous) says...

Oh, and a special note for Stevie.

If you ever decide to run for office (and I sincerely hope you do), you've got my vote. I like your passion, even if I don't necessarily agree with your politics.

VOTE CORBIN!

April 10, 2009 at 3:23 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jasonesu (anonymous) says...

I do realize that the platform for CAE and Teresa was a heath issue, but did Teresa ever fill one bit guilty when she was serving those greasey hamburgers, cheeseburgers, fries, and frosty's to the residents of Emporia? I bet not and look how many arteries she helped clog and bypasses she caused. Nope never bothered her one bit to contribute to obesity and she laughed all the way to the bank to make those deposits. Now how much does she really care about health.

April 10, 2009 at 3:23 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

giggles (anonymous) says...

I don't think you can seriously call this a MAJORITY won vote. It is so close to being equal it is scary. Majority votes in congress often takes 2/3.
BTW, wouldn't it make more sense to have the voters in the 66801 area code for decisions that affect where they live. They might not live within city limits but it is where they go to spend their money. I guess us backwoods people don't have the thinkin power that city folk got...

April 10, 2009 at 3:25 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

madpoet (anonymous) says...

I agree giggles. In an impromptu poll at lunch the other day, of 7 people only 2 were able to vote on this issue. The other 5 of us lived out in the county. I would bet 3/4 of my coworkers do live outside the city limits. But a smoking ban affects us at work but we couldn't vote. I will applaud the other 2, by the way, they DID go out and vote. So we had 100% turnout of those who were allowed the privilege. I say bring it on with a county wide ban. It will go down in flames (pun intended)

April 10, 2009 at 3:33 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

drumma (anonymous) says...

Ha ha ha!!! Take your stank outside whiners!!! Maybe some oxygen will wake you up to see the light.

Have a great, smoke free day!

April 10, 2009 at 3:34 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

tvarsky (anonymous) says...

Maximus was right, here come the Hitler quotes . . .

Did you know the three leading fascist leaders (Benito Mussolini, Franco, & Adolf Hitler) all abstained from tobacco and smoking? Did you know the Nazis banned smoking nationally in 1941? Is it a coincidence that Hitler also abstained from alcohol? Advocates for the ban are the same people who would've told Churchill to snuff out that cigarette and put down that drink . . . right before he whipped Tojo and Hitler's ass.

I'll leave you with this quote from the big guy himself, Adolph Hitler: "[Tobacco is] the wrath of the Red Man against the White Man." Good job making the Fuhrer proud, Emporia.

April 10, 2009 at 3:35 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

old_soldier (anonymous) says...

jm - my "boss" is the city manager. It's being enforced as of 2:45 today. I'm not happy about it.

April 10, 2009 at 3:35 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Tell (anonymous) says...

She could care less jason maybe some of these health nuts will get their butts on a treadmill.

April 10, 2009 at 3:35 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

giggles (anonymous) says...

The news sure does report about obesity and the serious problems that go with it. It is probably the next ban on their list. Everyone is going to be so healthy in Emporia, maybe not happy or stress free, but healthy... They could be raising money for everyone's gym memberships now.

April 10, 2009 at 3:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

mmstormont (anonymous) says...

LOL drumma!!!!!!

I'm just really upset I can't sit inside of public places and destroy people's lungs with my disgusting poison shs. Geez Emporia, how could you ban something so amazing??? So what if my shs causes cancer in non smokers, they should just go somehwere else, and take their kids with them, bc I'll blow my smoke on them too! I'm also going to throw a fit about putting this issue to a vote and now when it's passed by the vote I begged for, I'm going to throw another fit!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wake up Emporia.

Today is a good day!!!!!!! ;)

April 10, 2009 at 3:40 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

drumma (anonymous) says...

jasonesu

I don't think you're going to get second hand obesity. Missed the point by a long shot.

April 10, 2009 at 3:43 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

tvarsky (anonymous) says...

mmstormont: you take your children into bars and taverns? despicable.

April 10, 2009 at 3:44 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

mmstormont (anonymous) says...

Try again. Read slowly this time...

April 10, 2009 at 3:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

epona (anonymous) says...

I agree. I live in the county but do all my shopping and spending, and working in Emporia. I did not even get to vote on the issue, yet I am going to have to live with it. How that for NO REPRESENTATION! And if I had known what Theresa Walters was up to I never would have voted for her. You can bet I wont make that mistake again!

April 10, 2009 at 3:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

allintogether (anonymous) says...

6 votes. So much for the non voter's excuse of my vote won't matter so why bother. This was such a tough issue. The margin of victory speaks volumes as to how this wasn't the slam dunk CAE thought it would be. I hope as a result that Walters and her CAE ilk have spent their political capital and find their influence severely diminished. Takes a lot of money and a skewed study to divide a community.

This result should ring in the ears of people who didn't bother to vote. Unbelievable. I will be in Town Royal soon to buy Steve a beer. Thank you for putting up a great fight and being the kind of representative this community needs.

As it is now, the people have spoken. I will humbly abide.

April 10, 2009 at 3:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jasonesu (anonymous) says...

Drumma, I did not say second hand obesity, I was speaking clearly of a health issue and stated that. Teresa went at this ban as a health issue and second hand smoke was her target. Well obseity is a health issue and greasy Wendy's burgers contribute so they could be the target.

April 10, 2009 at 3:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

tvarsky (anonymous) says...

"So what if my shs causes cancer in non smokers, they should just go somehwere else, and take their kids with them, bc I'll blow my smoke on them too!"

I cannot blow smoke on kids in a bar or tavern because kids are not allowed in bars or taverns. Save your editorial commentary for someone it might work on.

April 10, 2009 at 3:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

goodoleboy (anonymous) says...

Majority as defined in websters:

the excess of a majority over the remainder of the total : margin <won by a majority of 10 votes

the greater quantity or share <the majority of the time

the group or political party having the greater number of votes (as in a legislature)

How is this unclear? If people want to be angry, be angry at those that did not vote, not the results of those that did. Not that I like her but even Walters went on record saying she would not seek a recount, saying she was "above that" what does that say about all of you that dislike her so, and are whining about a recount? give it a rest already, there was a vote, the voters spoke, this is over.

April 10, 2009 at 3:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

barefootin (anonymous) says...

close.

April 10, 2009 at 3:51 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

mmstormont (anonymous) says...

tvarsky: Kids are allowed in restaurants, believe it or not! This wasn't just about bars...

April 10, 2009 at 3:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Tell (anonymous) says...

Teresa
Hey come on down to the Royal I'll buy you a beer you can celebrate!

April 10, 2009 at 3:55 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

gooseylucy (anonymous) says...

drumma, Good one. Second hand obesity. Roflmao!! That's a good one. For all pro shs folks, you got the vote you wanted, but not the answer you wanted. Too bad, but let's just move on. I would imagine your customers will still come to the bars even though they have to step outside to smoke. Remember, you are not losing your right to smoke, you just can't smoke inside. Simple.

April 10, 2009 at 3:56 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

OU812 (anonymous) says...

im just wondering how many of the winning 'YES' votes were bought or bribed seeing as how it was stated that posting the vote "NO" signs we're pointed out to be a bad resolve because it could sway how the votes went......personally i dont think the "People's" vote even really mattered anyway since the city comission was already gonna implement the ban without giving "Anyone" the chance to be heard......but now the "Yes Men" can gloat at a victory that was decided for them months ago!!!!! Yay go morons!!!!!

April 10, 2009 at 3:58 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

blulitespecial (anonymous) says...

Since I won't come into Emporia late tonight to get my 3 bottles of high-dollar beer,plus tips,plus maybe a drink or two for a lady- I guess somebody's going to have to sell a lot of greaseburgers to make up the difference.How many cheeseburgers do you have to sell to make up for the tax and profit loss of $20.50 in sales and tips? Oh,since I'm not in town tonight,I won't be buying a greaseburger,either. It should be of everyone's interest to see how future sales tax figures work out,and if we'll need to change the tax structure. Again. I hope this doesn't come down to another decision of raise sales tax,or raise property taxes.

April 10, 2009 at 3:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

drumma (anonymous) says...

jason,

The point is that I make my own concious decision to eat what I want. You can't control where your smoke goes. If it goes into my lungs and I don't want it there, you've just violated my constitutional rights. Let's face it, there are absolutely no LOGICAL arguments for smoking in public. And as for the slippery slope logic that i'm sure will follow from others, no this isn't the end of your beloved country, it's the beginning of freedom.

April 10, 2009 at 4 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Tell (anonymous) says...

Mr Sauder has done so much for this community it is just stunning to me that he would work so hard to divide it.

April 10, 2009 at 4:01 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

sandman (anonymous) says...

A very sad day, a recount should be DEMANDED!!! I would like to know concerning each and every provisional. Plus, felt the question was VERY poorly stated on the ballet, had MANY people ask what it ment. Why can't they just say:
those for the ban, vote "Yes", those oppose the ban vote "No"
I believe MANY people were confused by the wording.

April 10, 2009 at 4:01 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

giggles (anonymous) says...

No, gooseylucy, not just outside, as far as I have heard, you may be lucky to find a place in the vicinity where you can go to smoke, or you may still be in violation.
Hey, maybe those businesses just need to move outside the city limits, that seems to be where CAE wants them.

April 10, 2009 at 4:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jasonesu (anonymous) says...

You have every right to choose what bar to go into, if you don't like smoke then go the smoke free ones, which there are. I do not smoke but don't feel that I have the right to tell a business owner what they can or cannot do. There are very few restaurants in this town that allow smoking, so go eat at one that is smoke free.

April 10, 2009 at 4:05 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

josiesbar (anonymous) says...

The people have spoken, indeed. I am very disappointed in the people who didn't come out and vote, because I personally talked to about 40 people who didn't vote. Regardless, me personally, I am not going to push this vote to a recount. I believe the numbers are right, and have been assured of such by the county clerk. It has been a long, hard fight, and for us to come out 6 votes short, is to me, pretty astonishing.

Quick side story-- We have been calling the city offices, trying to figure out when this ban goes into effect, and have so far, gotten 3 different answers. It's good to know they have their "stuff" together (rolls eyes).

I want to thank everyone who assisted us in any way, shape, or form. For those of you who voted for this ban, I sure hope to see you out at the bars at midnight. For those of you who are against this ban and didn't vote, don't _itch. You don't have the right.

My last statement is this. I am really saddened to see how many people in Emporia are so willing to give up their rights, and need the government to make decisions they should be perfectly capable of making themselves.

For those of you who want to gloat, maybe a little decency would be called for, especially for the bar owners who have the most to lose. Unlike the two girls in the commission meeting today, a little maturity goes a long ways.

Matt

April 10, 2009 at 4:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

giggles (anonymous) says...

Drumma,
you call that freedom??? Crushing one freedom to get another is not democracy.

April 10, 2009 at 4:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

mermel (anonymous) says...

a wise soul once told me....
"if you're smoking around me...you better be on fire!!!"

April 10, 2009 at 4:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

OU812 (anonymous) says...

Amen Jason.....and since you ppl want to talk about freedoms and rights well here's one for ya "Freedom Of Choice" it's a smokers "CHOICE" to smoke and it's also a non-smokers "CHOICE" to not be around or in the areas where the "Smokers" are!!!!

April 10, 2009 at 4:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

orangewindow (anonymous) says...

i think this has gone way too far.... it is an outrage... i thought this was supposed to be a free country... whats up with that... this is just another right that they have taken away from us. how aweful.... whats next, if you have high blood pressure or colesteral problems you wont be able to go to a fast food place. this is so wrong... i really think that they need to do a recount, just simply because it was too close to call. look deep down in yourself and honestly think about what is going on. how many right do you want taken from you before you decide to do something about it???????

April 10, 2009 at 4:12 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

eiggohp (anonymous) says...

YES, now I can breathe good old clean are instead of all of your second-handed smoke that is causing so many health problems.
YOU wanted a vote.....you got a vote.....now shut up!!!!

April 10, 2009 at 4:16 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

josiesbar (anonymous) says...

"YOU wanted a vote.....you got a vote.....now shut up!!!!"

You're the one who's yelling, not me. Once again, a little maturity goes a long way...

Matt

April 10, 2009 at 4:19 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

OU812 (anonymous) says...

i have a good question for you all to ponder on for a minute....Last i knew tobacco wasn't listed as an illegal substance so how is it that something that isn't nearly as harmful as "illegal drugs" , "Methane Gas" , "Ethonol" and alot of other more major health related issues able to be banned in such a vicious manner????

April 10, 2009 at 4:19 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

giggles (anonymous) says...

Half the people said yes, the other said no, we can just as easily tell you to shut up. I personally don't feel you have any right to tell me to shut up about it, because you didn't even allow me a vote, even though I live here for all intents and purposes! I will be mad as I want to be, I still have that right for now.

April 10, 2009 at 4:19 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

localman (anonymous) says...

tvarsky,
You don't know crap about what you can and can't do with taking a minor in a bar.

April 10, 2009 at 4:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

localman (anonymous) says...

tvarsky,
Ask Corbin how many underage and I mean not even teenagers he had in T.R. on St. Patricks Day. If he didn't allow that he would lose a great tradition.

April 10, 2009 at 4:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

epona (anonymous) says...

The next thing will be no more drinking. Look out for a dry county next. You know alcohol is as much of a drug a tobacco. These health nuts want to take away all our fun! Well that's okay, cause we can go somewhere that wants our tax dollars. Evidently Emporia doesnt need it!

April 10, 2009 at 4:27 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

josiesbar (anonymous) says...

I hope you all realize that there are 6 people who own bars in Emporia, but live outside the city limits. Ehh, what difference does another 6 votes make, right?

April 10, 2009 at 4:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

giggles (anonymous) says...

Truly, I know how many people I encountered that were angry because they couldn't vote on the issue, because they fall outside the city limits, myself included. I think we have a right to be upset about the outcome because it really wasn't a fair vote. Emporia, Kansas 66801 residents should have been given that freedom, our democracy.

April 10, 2009 at 4:33 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jmcmannis (anonymous) says...

Old soldier I did not know that but, How on Gods green earth can the city manger inact the ban 10 hrs ahead of schedule. According to the county electoral board and what was reported by the Gazette the ban officially takes effect at midnight. I was sitting in the commission chambers when they said it.

So your city manger must have jumped the gun and decided to snuff out the smokers before the weekend.

Hope that clears up what I heard, was told and read.

April 10, 2009 at 4:33 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jmcmannis (anonymous) says...

Yeah Matt I thought that reaction of those two students in the commission meeting was a little over the top. I think they were trying out for an audition since the news crew were in full force today.

I just want to thank you and Steve Corbin for the sacrifices over these past few months that you have made to protect and defend the rights of the people.
If I knew where you hung out I would come and buy you and Steve a drink.

Steve I pray that your business will remain strong despite the setback.

April 10, 2009 at 4:41 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

josiesbar (anonymous) says...

jmcmannis--

We're at Town Royal right now. The Crown is going down REAL good right now...

Matt

April 10, 2009 at 4:42 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Tell (anonymous) says...

10 hours doesn't seem like alot of time to train staff, post signs, and get a plan on how to inforce the ban oh well maybe the cae will come to help out now that they all will be at the bars.

April 10, 2009 at 4:45 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Paccifier (anonymous) says...

Under the definitions in the ordinance, Section 2 n defines Smoking, and it includes the word "weed" besides tobacco.. Tea may be a weed to some, or were they anticipting legalized marijuana (sp, sorry)? This is from the version of the ordinance available on KVOE website at least.

April 10, 2009 at 4:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

FormerEmporian (anonymous) says...

As a former Emporian, a frequent visitor, and a smoker I have been reading comments and all the news stories about this issue.

I remember a few months ago being in Emporia and having dinner at the local Applebee's. I got up from my dinner and walked outside to enjoy a smoke and was chided by several people that you can smoke inside. I commented "I know, but I CHOOSE to smoke outside." The same thing happened to me a few weeks later at Bruff's.

I live in Kansas City now and a quite accustomed to the smoking bans we have here. Myself and the people I associate with all understand that their may be issues related to second hand smoke. We get that and we respectfully move outside.

I am assuming all will take this to mean that I support the ban. Far from it . . . I choose to ban myself from smoking indoors. In much the same way, members of the CAE and people who voted for the ban had the choice to vote with their wallets. They had the right to not give their money to establishments that did not support the type of atmosphere they preferred. In much the same way, I choose not to eat at Chinese restaurants, as I do not like Chinese food. I do not shop at the various craft stores around Emporia, as they do not have items that appeal to me. I prefer soft drinks in a Styrofoam cup so I patronize J's Carryout or Sonic.

There is nothing that has ever forced any of the people of CAE or voters for the ban to go to such places that allowed smoking. There is nothing in Emporia's water that turns people into Zombies which Steve can summon in mass to come to Town Royal.

People of Emporia . . . I submit to you that you have free will. The power to choose, the power to spend your money where you want to. This is totally evidenced by the decline of the great Emporia mall.

I now challenge the members of CAE and all who voted for the ban to celebrate tonight at their favorite establishment that once allowed smoking. At midnight tonight, you should all amass at Bruff's, Josie's, Town Royal, Coles, Mary's and give your money to the places you all wanted to cater to you.

The problem is you probably never had a desire to go to those places anyway, and probably after the ban goes into effect will not patronize them.

This is my first ever comment! I feel relieved now! Thanks for listening to me vent.

April 10, 2009 at 4:51 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

slvrnblck (anonymous) says...

Matt and Steve--

Congratulations on a well fought debate. You may have been on the losing side but you both gave it your all. I think this ordinance ended where it should have....the voters hands and I thank you both for getting it to that point.

April 10, 2009 at 4:53 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Kujiin (anonymous) says...

Some people will never get it. Today with the results of the election Emporians will have healthier places to drink, eat and be merry. However in your infinite wisdom you have started the ball rolling.

April 10, 2009 at 4:53 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

epona (anonymous) says...

Tell
I'll bet the CAE wont be in Corbin's! I dont think he'll let them in ! LOL

April 10, 2009 at 4:54 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

rcakmon (anonymous) says...

Congrats, Emporia! I didn't think it would pass but I'm proud that it did. All you smokers...just step outside and puff away. The non-smokers can now go anywhere in town without coming home smelling like an ashtray!

April 10, 2009 at 4:54 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

SFIns (anonymous) says...

jmcmannis = sore loser...

If anyone that is calling for a recount really wants one they can request it. It doesn't have to be EOB.

April 10, 2009 at 4:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

brookesaunt (anonymous) says...

I think it is a sad day in Emporia and when the goverment tells us what we are not allowed to do. Whats next someone telling us we aren't allowed to smoke in our own cars or homes.

April 10, 2009 at 4:58 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

livinglife (anonymous) says...

I think its very very sad when the right of individual business owners can be taken away like this! If you do not run the business, pay property taxes, buy supplies to keep the door open and on and on then you do not have the right to tell a business owner what they can allow or not allow in their business! But sadly enough thats just what the registered voters of Emporia have done! Shame on you! Do the businesses that allowed smoking by their own choice a favor..If you voted yes stay out of there! They don't need your money and I am sure they would rather be supported by customers who believe they have the right to choose! Just for the record I don't even smoke! But I voted no! When somethings not right it's not right! I learned that when I was 2 years old! If I did not want to be around second hand smoke then I did not go into a place of business that allowed it. How complicated is that to figure out? Duh! To the businesses that now have to play by someone elses rules. I am very sorry to see this happening to you! For now I would suggest making a very nice outside area for all your smokers. Or buy smoking cars because they cannot stop smoking in private vehicles. Maybe fix up an old school bus and let the smokers have at it in the parking lot! Just some ideas! I am sad to say I am not very proud to be living in Emporia, KS. today!

April 10, 2009 at 5 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jmcmannis (anonymous) says...

SF I am not a sore loser, I am not asking for a recount yes I see this as a step back but it is what it is. I said my peice now it is time to move on and try to heal this town from the wounds inflicted on both sides of the debate.

Matt as soon as I shower I will be over.

April 10, 2009 at 5:01 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

giggles (anonymous) says...

What is the distance that a person will have to go outside to smoke, I know it was debated, but I don't know what was decided.

April 10, 2009 at 5:01 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jmcmannis (anonymous) says...

By the way the Gazette just got word from the city and the ban is in effect as of 245 this afternoon. As soon Vopat certified the election the ban became effective.
Giggles I belive last I heard it was 10 ft away from any public entry way.

April 10, 2009 at 5:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

olddog (anonymous) says...

KVOE just announced that according to the Police dept the ban is effective immediately.

Maybe the Gazette can help clear this up.

1st the ban was defeated. Then enacted.
1st it was midnight, now it's immediately.

Gee who knows the right answer.........

April 10, 2009 at 5:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

olddog (anonymous) says...

LMAO @ 10 inches!

April 10, 2009 at 5:09 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

josiesbar (anonymous) says...

slvrnblck,

Thank you. All we wanted was for this to come to a public vote, and it did. I find it disturbing that only 27% of registered voters came out to vote on this, both sides. Even more disturbing is that this is a record turnout for a city election. The worst part about this is that there are at least 6 bar owners who couldn't vote on this. I have to end this post. The computer screen is getting blurry for some reason (Crown????)

Matt

April 10, 2009 at 5:10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

olddog (anonymous) says...

YY4U - A beer garden on the roof of Town Royal sounds like a great idea. Maybe they could get grants from the CAE to help with the project!

April 10, 2009 at 5:20 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Tell (anonymous) says...

I'll bet that the CAE will be willing to assist in building all of these outside smoking areas, after all its for the health of Emporia.

April 10, 2009 at 5:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

hickory (anonymous) says...

I suppose Clean Air Emporia will be working with the feds now to get a flatulence tax past for all cattle and hogs a farmer owns.

April 10, 2009 at 5:53 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

seeya32 (anonymous) says...

Hey drumma,"stank ass" ? In the words of Roy D. Mercer,,just how big of ole boy are ya??

April 10, 2009 at 6:10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

smogman (anonymous) says...

A customer from Lebo came in my store this afternoon around 3:00 and was smoking as he walked in, I told him the smoking ban had passed and that I had to call 911 and have him sited, another customer said, "that cant be good for business". So I gave him a break while I painted a stupid 10ft square around my door..........They all laughed and I still made 50 bucks.

April 10, 2009 at 6:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Renegade (anonymous) says...

I'd like a re-vote...

DO YOU WANT A SMOKING BAN?
YES OR NO?

April 10, 2009 at 6:20 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

smogman (anonymous) says...

If you vote here renegade, the NO voters will just get deleted........LOL

April 10, 2009 at 6:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

mistyblue (anonymous) says...

Hey! I have a idea. Let's all turn on our police scanners and listen to all the details for citation and tickets. Chhh-ching! Our tax dollars at work with enforcement.

April 10, 2009 at 6:34 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Renegade (anonymous) says...

-smogman.. The confusion on whether or not the ban passed is stunning to me...
Someone that has been posting against the ban, for months, I suspect voted YES...because he thinks there is no smoking ban now..because the YES vote Won....
How many others did that? Or voted the other way?..

Well, it really doesn't matter..because, our State Government will make all of Kansas a non-smoking state before long.

April 10, 2009 at 6:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

smogman (anonymous) says...

BTW... The customer ask "Where can I smoke in Emporia" I said in your car or your house or outside of this 10ft square, then he ask "What if I blow the smoke at your new painted square?" I said, dont make me call my lawyer,,,,,,,,,LOL

April 10, 2009 at 6:54 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

smogman (anonymous) says...

renegade-Yes is for, No is against. Agreed the State ban is tolerable...........COMPROMISE. But from what I read here the other night the pro ban faction can still move to reinforce there version of the ban. Probably another battle to keep state law enforce over the city ordinance. IMO

April 10, 2009 at 7:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

smogman (anonymous) says...

And I hope the state passes there version now.

April 10, 2009 at 7:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

kittenslvsu (anonymous) says...

Hickory the government is already tring to get a tax passed on the animals already very sad.

April 10, 2009 at 7:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Renegade (anonymous) says...

Well...Get ready everybody!....They're going to put a huge tax on Coca Cola soon..because, "our Government, thinks we are getting too fat."..So, they'll tax Coca Cola so we'll stop drinking so much of it.

The light I see at the end of the tunnel...is a train coming at us!!!!...

I'm "warning you all now"...if they play the tax game with Coffee...I'm going to war!!!!

April 10, 2009 at 7:24 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

smogman (anonymous) says...

Where do you think Obama is going to get the trillions, I remember the 70's. Intrest rates were around 21% Can You Say INFLATION........OOPS I forgot there going to tax cow gas to make up for tobbaco now..........SWL

April 10, 2009 at 7:31 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

smogman The current state ban law in the sernate #81 is an exact version of the the old city/state law. Don t count your chickens before they are fried.

April 10, 2009 at 7:40 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

justthinkin (anonymous) says...

Yes, I remember that, when asked about enforcement, the City Commission said that if a violation was witnessed, the person should call 911. I hope my heart attack or rape or robbery doesn't prevent my receiving help, and I CERTAINLY wouldn't want my heart attack or rape or robbery to interfere with taking down an evil smoker!

April 10, 2009 at 7:41 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

justthinkin (anonymous) says...

P.S. - Haven't we surpassed the "50" posts, and isn't it time to move this forum to the trash can?

April 10, 2009 at 7:43 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

smogman (anonymous) says...

But I while still be able to smoke at my local state affiliated casino.........HUH..... O THE HYPOCROSY...........BTW......Steve Congrats, A job well done.

April 10, 2009 at 7:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Renegade (anonymous) says...

Does this mean we can't smoke at the "tea party" on the 15th...after we've paid our Taxes?....

I'll beat this dead horse if I want to.....LOL...sorry..justhinkin...I'm justsayin' :-).
I agree..enuff said!

April 10, 2009 at 7:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

smogman (anonymous) says...

Also I thought private clubs were exempt from the ban under state law?

April 10, 2009 at 7:51 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

smogman (anonymous) says...

Steve, just remember to take your tape measure with you when you go outside of your own building to smoke, burns me up too..............

April 10, 2009 at 8:31 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

justamarine (anonymous) says...

Steve-
go check out the outsiders perspective in the news forum thats what is sick
Rob

April 10, 2009 at 8:31 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

smogman (anonymous) says...

Pay more taxes and lose more rights, 2+2=0............Just another underpaid tax collector.......SERENITY NOW.............LOL

April 10, 2009 at 8:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

goodwinwe (anonymous) says...

remember the prohibition days?? how abouts an underground smoking tavern?!??

April 10, 2009 at 8:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

glarson (anonymous) says...

Wow, I head for Good Friday church service and the forum explodes. I can't keep up.

Let's head to a forum... or continue the discussion on one of the other result stories:

http://www.emporiagazette.com/forums/...

April 10, 2009 at 8:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )