July 21, 2008
To the Editor:
This e-mail is being sent to express a concern a large number of Ohioans have with the media and their one-sided slant of the news.
On or around June 23, Ohio Sen. Schuler and 12 co-sponsors introduced a bill to clarify the exemptions Ohio’s smoking ban, Issue 5, was to have had in the law based on what voters read when they went to the ballot to vote. Clearly, no private club or family-owned business was exempt once the rules were written.
We’re extremely unhappy with the media coverage this state has chosen NOT to give regarding Senate Bill 346. The truth is that Ohio voters were lied to. We were told this ban would not harm businesses. That was a LIE. Liquor permit holders lost the potential of $67.44 million in 2007. Ohio Job and Family Services had projected a gain of 10,000 jobs for the hospitality and leisure industry. Twelve months after the ban, 5,400 people have lost their jobs in that industry. The coin-machine operator industry (vending machines, pool tables, juke boxes, etc.) is down 25-35 percent. Beer distributors are down up to 10 percent in their sales, thus impacting the sales in bars and restaurants.
These losses are passed down to vendors, musicians, etc. Ohio voters were told private clubs and family owned businesses would be exempt. Read the ballot language.
Family-owned businesses are fighting for their lives. They paid for these businesses. They have lost the ability to make decisions that impact their business. Private clubs are closing all over Ohio as are family-owned bars and restaurants.
SB 346 is a common-sense approach to the ban. It would essentially keep franchises (such as Applebee’s, Lone Star, Ruby Tuesday’s, Max & Erma’s, etc.) smoke-free. It would allow the family-owned business to decide for themselves based on their customers’ demands whether or not to be a smoking facility. That allows choices for employees to work where they want and patrons to patronize where they wish. Put up a sign. It’s that simple.
When the news media fail to report our side of this smoking-ban debate, it gives those with money and who contribute large donations the ability to get air time and time in the newspapers that we do not have the money to pay for.
We’re fighting huge organizations that aren’t even located in Ohio. Where are the fair and balanced media? Are there none left? Are you aware these same organizations want to:
• have employers FIRE smokers;
• ban smoking in our homes, OUR homes;
• ban fast food restaurants from serving children without their parent or guardian.
It’s way out of hand. If you think what I’m saying is untrue, look at www.ash.org and see for yourself. These fanatics are threatening our homes and ability to parent. This has to stop. The media have given them way too much credibility and air/print time. We deserve our day. Please consider the other side of this and give us equal time.
Pam Parker, on behalf of Opponents of Ohio Bans
Grove City, Ohio