After seeing that great video and article, I can see that just addressing the butts of the butt leavers is not going to solve the problem. People can be secretive about where they put their butts and good at hiding their butts. A ban is definitely the way to go. I'm sure there are a LOT of non-smokers who would more than fill up the beaches if the butt leavers had to go to a "designated smoking area". David, you are doing a great job! - the more the word gets out (talk radio? petitions?) the better the chance is of getting something done. I'm reminded of when everybody used to smoke in restaurants, then came the smoking area, but smoke itself does not observe specific areas and travels so now we have completely smoke-free restaurants. Maybe that's the future with beaches. It has to at least start someplace.

Last night my Ordinance banning smoking and tobacco products on my Cities' beaches and public parks (where children and teens play) including our Little League field and 2 other baseball complexes including the bleachers passed it's first reading. All Ordinances must pass 2 readings and this will come up again Oct 18. Assuming it passes then it becomes effective immediately. My city is 101 years old so believe me this is an accomplishment as few around here accept change readily.

That is awesome, David!! Hoping for the best for the next go-around on Oct. 18th. If anyone can effect changes, you are the man!

How wonderful David. I do believe that bans on cigarettes do encourage people to set a good example and once they get tired of the hassle - QUIT. I'm sure glad I no longer smoke - I don't know where it is legal in Canada. They even passed a law that it is illegal to smoke in your vehicle if you have children with you. Public spaces like ball parks, soccer fields, etc are all smoke free as are all bars, restaurants, public buildings, etc, etc. We also have ordnances here that cigarettes and all related smoking items cannot be visible in any store. So every 7-11, corner store and grocery store has to keep them in cupboards or behind curtains. Keep up the good work. It does make a difference.

Donna

Donna,

You've given me some GREAT ideas. In Florida we don't have some of the things you just mentioned, like hiding tobacco products and smoking in cars with kids. Also any establishment that sells less than 10% food, like a typical bar, still can allow smoking. These smoking issues would have to be addressed at the State level as the State has taken over that domain with the tobacco lobby's encouragement and financial assistance. lol

David, good luck on the 18th. You're awesome!!!!

It's now illegal to smoke on Gulfport's beach or in any park where children's activities are conducted.

Tuesday night my Ordinance banning smoking and tobacco products on my Cities' beaches and public parks (where children and teens play) including our Little League field and 2 other baseball complexes including the bleachers passed it's second reading so now it's a law.

My city is 101 years old so believe me this is an accomplishment as few around here accept change readily.

I have been inundated with phone calls from neighboring cities about helping them with crafting and advocating similar legislation.

WHOO HOO..HIGH FIVE DAVID!!! I went to the Minneapolis OCF Walk and while stopping for gas, etc, it seemed soooooo strange to actually SEE cigarettes and cigarette advertising!!

One thing I was absolutely horrified at was a Rodeo I went to in Oklahoma where there was a company actually GIVING AWAY chewing tobacco. If you ever get such an event in your community, you will want to be ready for that. I was completely shocked and took pictures of them giving cancer away - FREE.

Donna

Great job David!!!!

You are awesome!!

Congratulations, David!! You did it!! I just KNEW you would!