Aloha and Welcome to the Hawaii Smokers Alliance forum.
This site is dedicated to re-establishing and protecting your right to Freedom of Choice.
We did not ask our state government for these new draconic Smoking Ban Laws. We are demanding a complete removal of such bigoted, unconstitutional and unscientifically based prohibition laws.
You can help in the fight by contacting our legislators via this web site. Sign up to become a member. We will keep you informed of the latest news and what needs to be done to counter these unnecessary, unwanted laws.
This just in...
Department of Health debacle
The Hawaii Smokers Alliance is very pleased by the admission of the State Department of Health that “there is no evidence that partially enclosed restaurants/bars had any dangerous level of particulate matter either before or after the law”. Also that an enclosed bar with its doors open had lower PM levels than a partially enclosed bar near and intersection. What is extremely astonishing to us all are two main factors:
1) Why did the department of Health stand by an impact study that claimed no financially harm to an industry when this very report shows that after the law took effect, the patron levels had dropped in all but one location from anywhere between 2 to 85%? If that is not inarguable and undeniable proof of a negative economic impact, then what else would you call it?
2) Why do the minions at the Department of Health continue to demand any outdoor or partially enclosed space regulation of Tobacco consumption?
FACT: Partially enclosed restaurants/bars were all well below the EPA’s 24 hour average limit both before and after the law.
FACT: A bar with its doors open has lower PM (Particulate Matter) levels the a partially enclosed bar near an intersection.
FACT: Any partially enclosed or outdoor restrictions on smoking are superfluous and or just plainly discriminatory in nature.
Their study just proved that point.
FACT: Even their touted 90% drop in PM is laughable as the highest reading they were able to get were only at the 18% level of acceptable PM exposure as defined by the standards of OSHA (The occupational Safety and Health Administration) so even the enclosed spaces are well within acceptable guidelines and deemed to be a safe working environment.
FACT: Customer numbers are down severely. Where are all the promised non-smokers who swore they only stayed away from these venues because of the smoking?
FACT: Liquor revenue is down enormously. Oh sure sales are up at 7-11 and Costco, but the adult venue revenue tanked a whopping $47 million dollars in 2007 alone.
FACT: This study is biased in nature due to the participant’s well documented personal aversion to tobacco use in general. They tried stacking the deck and fell flat on their faces... Good work CFTFH, DOH...
FACT: No other businesses were included in this study, we suggest they do the same indoor air quality check at Camelia Buffet, HY’s Steak House or Ruth’s Chris and see where their PM levels come in.
Tourism Crashing? This pathetic excuse for a lawmaker just happens to be married to Tracie Yoshimoto, the Director for the Coalition for a Tobacco Free Hawaii, Big Island. This man is literally in bed with this organization. He should be hanging his head in shame. He also insists that this alliance is not a conflict of interest, and did not sway his opinion on the matter... Oh yeah, that sounds true, about as true as the hysterical claims of the eminent "Killer" dangers of SHS. But we like to consider the source when objectively discerning information, so his denial of his culpability for nepotism is par the course. South Hilo, Waiakea, Mountain View, send this miscreant back to his hidey hole... He and his cronies have just leveled you all with an economic death sentence. Yes they did this to us all without one shred of scientific evidence that can back up the claims as to the so called "Killer dangers of SHS". There is no study in existence as to the effect of SHS in a realistic outdoor setting that has ever been done to find a causal relationship with SHS and Any HARM WHATSOEVER! This law was passed with bigotry and intolerance as its primary reasoning.
These are what the headlines have been saying for the past few days.
It stands to reason that disenfranchising 30% of the World's population and all the folks who willingly travel with their smoker, family, friends, etc., would have a tremendous impact on our visitor counts.
A very simple concept and solution...
Treat people with dignity, accomodate diversity and respect the time honored golden rule of personal choice and personal responsibility.
Maybe then we can all get back to the business of delivering that Aloha Spirit that Hawaii was once world renown for.
All we are saying, is give peace a chance...
These fine people (love the peace symbol) just want a place to go, to be with like minded individuals who accept them and their personal lifestyle choice. Where is the harm in that? People are unique and have their own acceptable levels of tolerance for a multitude of different lifestyle choices. Some you may agree with, and other you may not, however, if it is a legal product (you can still buy cigarettes in a bar), or activity, it is probably best to mind your own business and avoid the things that cause you distress. If you are adverse to tobacco smoke, then don't come in, or apply to work here, it's very simple!
We are proud of these Military Men, who just got back from their freedom fighting mission on the other side of the globe. They deserve a place to gather, relax, have a brew and a smoke, they have earned it. We will keep up the fight for your freedoms here on the home front boys, of that you can rest assured and Mahalo for your service to our Country!
Hawaii, the world is watching us, what we do here and now will cause an uproar in this attack on our citizens right to freedom of choice and their constitutional will to exercise their personal responsibility.
Let's remind these legislators just who pays them and who they are supposed to be working for! 200,000 smokers in Hawaii can not be swept under the carpet without severe consequences... Ever heard of Elections 2008? Check out the "RED LIST". See if your lawmakers makes the grade...
We love this picture... The flag of our forefather's revolution... Don't tread on me... Priceless!
Smoking now illegal at Hawaii Beaches, Parks, and Municipal Golf Courses
Yep You heard that right. So to our good friends from the East, west and everywhere in between...
Keep your Money and STAY AWAY FROM HAWAII!
The Big Island now has the distinction or should I say "DA DIS STINK tion" of being the most intolerant place on Earth for Smokers.
The people responsible for this atrocity, and full out assault on the Smokers of the Big Island are as follows:
I have dubbed them the Seven Deadly Sinners...
The Chief Imbecile:
Councilman John Yoshimoto
Councilwoman admits to her veto over-ride costing her some votes.
Councilwoman Emily Naeole
In a recent newspaper interview, she acknowledges that she may lose some votes over this debacle. She was mistaken in this opinion as well. She should lose every single vote. She sipped from the Coalition Kool-Aid cup one too many times. There is no scientific evidence for this insidious Law that you helped to create, councilwoman. If you are going to blindly go along with the minuscule zealot smoker hater faction that has infested our Island home, then you should have to pay the price for it. And pay for it you will... Sweep her out!
Councilman Bob Jacobson
This man has been very frank about his intolerance of smokers in the media. I guess its time for his constituents to put an end to the Jacobson Era rule. The intolerance and discrimination of an entire block of society, without any sound or prudent evidence to back up these claims simply can not be allowed. The irony that you are all living under an active Volcano which is spewing metric tons of lethal, toxic chemicals into the very air you breath on a daily basis, and your fear that the smell of someones cigarette has or can harmed you in any way, shape or form is ridiculous, laughable and downright insane. You voters know what to do... Sweep him Out!!!
Councilwoman Brenda Ford
Sorry no picture available...
She too has shown her contempt for her smoking neighbors at every turn in the recent media coverage. She is not even embarrassed in her brazen intolerance of smokers. She lumps them all together in what appears to be some sub-human classification. The thought that every smoker is rude, uncaring or just complete litter bugs is absurd. There are far more reasonable and courteous smokers out these than not. If you were so concerned about the littering, why not just enforce the littering laws? Because, we understand, you don't want to have to even see a smoker. Come elections, let her see you all, smoker and non-smoker in a united front that has taken a stand against the tyranny of the Nanny State Government run Amok! Sweep her Out!
Councilman Donald Ikeda
For years we have been fighting to keep the country, country. Mr. Ikeda do you not realize that your embracing of these outsider fringe special interest groups, is in conflict with that very goal? The Aloha Spirit and open discrimination are two concepts that are diametrically opposed. Shame on you for not doing the right thing and standing up to these hysterical, frenzy feeding zealots. You should have upheld Mayor Kims veto and saw the error in the philosophy behind these insipid bans. Sweep him Out!
Councilman Angel Pilago
Another example of what must be simply stated, the shameful influence of outsiders. Where else could he have learned this unacceptable discrimination and lack of respect for his very own constituents? Surely not from the Kupuna, who advocate tolerance of different lifestyle choices. The conviction for the possible crime of littering that has been leveled onto the smoking population makes the assumption that every smoker will litter. This is not unlike racial profiling, which as we all know is unacceptable, but what else can his decision be based on? It has to be based on that, because there is no scientific evidence that outdoor smoking is a harm to ones health. You should have reconsidered your position, thousands across the state begged you to, but no, you chose over-ride... You made your bed, I hope you enjoy sleeping in it. Sweep him Out!
Councilman Pete Hoffman
It is discouraging to know that this world traveled, ex military man could succumb to this shibai and hoopla. As a member of the Military for so many years, fighting for our inalienable rights to freedom of choice, life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, then in a complete turnabout, strip your constituents of the right to those freedoms is mind boggling. You need solid evidence, not the made up, pulled out of thin air, cherry picked information that you have swallowed whole. Sweep him Out!
The other Atrocity...
SB 2408 Smoking Ban in Public Housing.
This would make the act of smoking a cigarette illegal in ones own private dwelling space.
Our Position: Strongly Oppose SB 2408. This despicable attack on private property rights must be stopped immediately.
The Hearing was set for 1:30 PM on January 29, 2008 Room 016 of the State Capitol. My thanks to all of you out there who either showed up at the hearing or sent in your testimony is opposition to this outrage of a legislative act.
Update: This coward did not even have the decency to show up at his own hearing...
The conclusion:
See web page SB2408 for a complete breakdown
Come Elections 2008...
Sweep him out!
Introduced by :
Senator Gary Hooser
Senhooser@Capitol.Hawaii.gov
We will be backing any qualified candidate from the Island of Kauai to replace this self appointed Nanny, and cause his removal from the hallowed halls of our State Capitol. This type of narrow minded thinking and his belief in the right to subjugate the poorest of the poor to his tyrannical views is un-American at best!
also initially supporting this bill:
Senator Kalani English
Molokai, Lanai and East Maui, Heads up. This guy is all about stripping you of your rights to freedom of choice when it comes to the legal act of consuming tobacco, even in your own home. I guess he is selective on tolerance for personal lifestyle choices.
Sweep him out!
Senenglish@Capitol.Hawaii.gov
Senator Les Ihara
Kapahulu. Kaimuki and Palolo... Although Senator Ihara appears to have had a slip in judgment, he is still undecided at this point on the issue for adult establishments. We are choosing not to offer an opinion either way on re-election status. There is still time for Senator Ihara to make his decision, so we can accordingly, make ours.
Senihara@Capitol.Hawaii.gov
Senator Donna Mercado-Kim
Halawa, Moanalua and Kamehameha Heights...
Senator Mercado-Kim has put herself on the side of Nanny State Government on many occasions. The solution:
Sweep her out!
Senkim@Capitol.Hawaii.gov
Senator Clarence Nishihara
Waipahu, Crestview, Pearl City...
Do not let this grandfatherly face fool you. This man has been at the forefront of the degradation of your rights to freedom of choice. He has actively participated in the absurdity of not only keeping the current law as it is, but making it far more intrusive.
Sweep Him Out!
Sennishihara@Capitol.Hawaii.gov
The only people left at the square castle with some common sense, dignity and respect for diversity...
SB2792 Smoking Exemption
This would allow bar owners to right to apply for a smoking license. The proceeds to the license fee benefiting the Organ Donation Education (We are big on this) and Tobacco Cessation (A necessary Evil) Funds.
Our position:
Strong support. This will insure everyone's right to freedom of choice.
No Information on Hearing date at this point.
Update: Senator Ige held a surprise hearing, for a complete breakdown, see web page SB2792
Introduced by:
Senator Sam Slom
Kahala, Hawaii Kai...
You have the distinction of being represented by one of the most dedicated and sensible people in the entire State Capitol. Our Champion from the very beginning, Senator Slom gets our highest and full recommendation! He has been at the forefront of insistence of maintaining individual rights, and an advocate for reinstating private business owners rights.
Keep Him In!
Senslom@Capitol.Hawaii.gov
Initially supported by:
Senator Robert Bunda
North Shore, Wahiawa...
Senator Bunda is a staunch supporter of personal and business owners rights. He is one of the few who have publicly come out to say that the current smoking law has gone too far. Please show your support for him come elections 2008!
Keep Him In!
Senbunda@Capitol.Hawaii.gov
Senator Lorraine Inouye
Hamakua, S. Hilo...
We are sorry to hear that Senator Inouye will be pursuing a different political path. Please support her in her future endeavors as she is and has been a supporter of yous...
Seninouye@Capitol.Hawaii.gov
Senator Shan Tsutsui
Kahului...
We were pleasantly surprised when Senator Tsutsui gave his support to this worthy bill. His action in breaking from the "Ranks" of his committee obligations was courageous and should be commended by all. It takes a man of backbone to defy the cronyism that runs rampant at the big square castle. Our hats are off to you sir!
Keep Him In!
Sentsutsui@Capitol.Hawaii.gov
Senator Paul Whalen
Kohala, Kona, Ka'u
Senator Whalen has been on your side since the very beginning. Unfortunately, he will not be seeking re-election. We send our best wishes for him, in whatever he chooses to do in the future. A sad loss for you, the constituents of his district.
Senwhalen@Capitol.Hawaii.gov
Senator Mike Gabbard
Senator Gabbard has been a supporter of the businessman's right to serve whichever clientèle they choose to! Please support him in the upcoming elections.
Keep Him In!
Sengabbard@Capitol.Hawaii.gov
Please send a big Mahalo to these courageous, outstanding Senators for their support of Hawaii's right to freedom of Choice.
Together we can and will turn the tide. Be proud, be an American and stand up for your right to freedom of choice!
Great News for Bar Owners!!!
Be on the lookout for the goon squads from the attorney Generals Office!!!
Agents from the AG have been seen around town, trying to get employees and or owners to sign blank affidavits. Beware and do not sign. According to Mark Bennett, AG (see above link), It is not the responsibility of an employee or owner to enforce this law! Yet they are trying to intimidate and ensnare these very people into admitting to committing a violation.
Click here more information
Co-Chair Hawaii Smokers Alliance
email: jolyn@hawaiismokersalliance.com
Co-Chair: Americans for Freedom of Choice
Associate Member: Hawaii Bar Owners Association
Useful Links: http://www.cigarettespedia.com/
The Star Bulletin is the must read publication of every citizen, they have covered the smoking issue in a fair and balanced approach. When you really want to know the truth, read the Star Bulletin.
Ft row: Rep. Colleen Meyer, Jolyn Tenn, Fred Remington, Atty. Paul Yamamura, Bob Speck
Bk row: Kawika Crowley, Byron Chalfont, Karen Huntimer, Sandra Miano, Rich Miano, Michael Zehner, Larry Haanio,
Lance Gomes
Not Picutred: Sam and Ann Kekaula, Robert Dunn, Michael and Chae Walton.
The current legislative sessions daily drop off's.
Click here to see them all
Courtesy of Zero Shibai. Com
Hotels that are still smoker friendly
Aqua Bamboo Spa
Aqua Island Colony
Celebrity Resorts
Country Club Condo
Double Tree Alana
Ewa Hotel
Fairmont Kialani
Fairmont Orchid
Grand Hyatt Wailea
Harbor Arms Hotels
Hawaii Condo Resorts
Hawaii Prince Hotel
Hawai Sekitei Corp
Holiday Inn Waikiki
Hyatt Maui
Hyatt Waikiki
Ilima Hotel
Kahala Hotel
Kauai Sands
King Kamehameha Beach Hotel
Kona Bali Kai
Laie Inn
Maile Sky Court
Marc Resorts Diamond Head
M.R. Hawaii Moi
M. R. Molokai
M.R. Maui Vista
M.R. Molokai Shores
M.R. Pali Kekua
M.R. Poni Kai
M.R. Pua Poa
M.R. Waikiki Grand
Miramar
Pacific Beach Hotel
Pacific Marina Inn
Pagoda
Sheraton Princess Kaiulani
Royal Hawaiian Hotel
Royal Kona
Royal Lahaina
Sheraton Waikiki
Uncle Billy's Kona
Waikiki Gateway Hotel
Kapalua Golf Course Lamenting the downturn in business
All golf course revenue is down sharply in the face of this ludacris legislation.
"a family of four cannot afford to spend 1,000 for a round of golf"
But a Cigar Smoking Foursome made of of International Businessmen used to drop that tidy sum without a second thought...
Who do you think they should be catering to?
Most of these executives still haven't connected the dots...
They are still trying to figure out why their endless supply of wealthy tourists have disappeared.
The answer is plan and very simple.
You must offer basic accomodations throughout the hospitality and leisure activities sectors and stop penalizing visitors, or refusing to accomodate them for choosing to enjoy a legal product. You know, the ability to have a cocktail and a smoke, or an outdoor setting meal, a cocktail and a smoke...
These are not unreasonable requests, and we believe that in the face of a quater of a billion revenue loss across the golfing industry here in the Islands, in lieu of the Department of Healths admission that there were no dangerous levels of Secondhand Smoke in these venues in the first place, calls for immediate action to amend the current smoking laws in the state of Hawaii!
I urge all golf course employees and management to contact your legislators and let them know how the Smoking Ban Law is devastating your businesses.
