----- Original Message/Inquiry -----
Sent: Friday, April 02, 2004 1:42 PM
Subject: Smoking restrictions

As a representative of the Mayor of Lawrence, Kansas, I am seeking the opinion of the United States Bartenders Guild regarding restrictions on smoking in bars and restaurants.  At the time, the Lawrence City Commission is considering passage of an ordinance that would protect workers in the Hospitality Industry from tobacco smoke.  Does your
organization have an opinion on this issue.

 Sincerely,
 David E. Kingsley
 gridave@sunflower.com

----- Response to Inquiry -----

Your message was passed on to me. I'm John C. Burton, Educational Director of the United States Bartenders Guild.

I'm unable to speak for the Guild, however, as a beverage manager and owner in California, when the no smoking law went into effect in California, our food and beverage revenue went up about 20 to 30 percent. People that we had not seen in years returned to our establishment.

Immediately our employees had fewer sick days resulting from sinus problems, our staff stopped "sniffing" from sinus problems.

Our customers started asking for specific servers that do not smoke. Servers that smoke smell like tobacco and customers found cigarette odor more offensive than perfume or cologne.

Has the no smoking law been a good law. Personally I say YES!!!!!!!!

New York has started a no smoking law and their business's are up 7 to 10 percent.

Should you have anymore questions please email me at
johncburton@msn.com

John C. Burton