Students view smoking ban favorably

Today marks the one-year anniversary of the city-wide smoking ban placed on restaurants, bars and other businesses in San Angelo.

Students who live on campus used to be able to smoke near the doors of a building, but now have to be at least 15 feet away.

"I was already used to [the ban]," junior Chris Gaither said. "I always smoke outside anyway."

Gaither had previously lived in California, where the smoking ban has been effective since 1998.

As a musician, Gaither said he does not mind the smoking ban.

"It used to be hard to breathe on stage…and now it's easier to play," he said.

Sophomore Shannon Garcia said the ban does not bother her either.

"I never smoked in restaurants," Garcia said. "I don't like smoking around people."

Garcia said she understands that most people do not like to smell smoke while they are eating at restaurants.

"I'm in favor of the ban because even though I smoke… I think it's only acceptable to smoke outside," Garcia said.

Many ashtrays are placed away from building entrances.

"I'm glad they put benches outside of the dorms because it's more comfortable for me to sit when I smoke," freshman Sur Broadway said.

Private businesses and night clubs in San Angelo were also affected by the smoking ban.

"The smoking ban has made business better," Fat Boss manager Cari Mayer said.

Some students at ASU agree with Mayer.

"Without as much smoke in the bar, more people feel welcome to come in and enjoy a drink while breathing in clean air," Broadway said.