Letter: Many restaurants don't oppose smoking ban [12/04-1]

Excerpts from: Many restaurants don't oppose smoking ban

By CHARLES CRESO Tribnet.com [12/03/03]

I am confused. Do Chuck E Cheese, Kentucky Fried Chicken and McDonald's really support smoking in restaurants? All are members of the Washington Restaurant Association that is threatening to sue to overturn the proposed smoking ban on behalf of its members.

Marlene's Market and Deli, a prominent health foods restaurant, is a member. Is it represented by the WRA's stance on smoking? Did it get a say in the WRA's official position on the subject? Should its owners be rethinking their membership in the WRA?

Tacoma's Lobster Shop, with its exquisite cuisine, is both a non-smoking restaurant and a member of the WRA. What is its owners' opinion on this controversial issue?

The association's members list reveals a significant number of high-profile, non-smoking restaurants. Many of these restaurants are incensed with the WRA's claim that it represents them. So where does the truth lie?

Does the WRA truly care about the health of restaurant workers? Is the WRA concerned about the health of children who eat in smoking sections of restaurants?

They argue that workers have a choice, a point that is debatable. Do they also argue that children eating in smoking sections were given a choice? Where is the truth?

Why do restaurants that disagree with the WRA's position on smoking continue to be silent members? Come on, McDonald's and Kentucky Fried Chicken - speak out. What are you afraid of?

CHARLES CRESO

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