Why one of Amarillo's restaurants operates smoke-free
AMARILLO, TEXAS -- Since the Texas Legislature killed a bill to create a state-wide smoking ban, ProNews 7 thought our staff should talk with one of the many Amarillo restaurants that are smoke-free and ask why.
The Bagel Place has been around for 15 years, and has always been smoke-free.
"When we opened the Bagel Place, we leaned towards the healthy side of the business. We decided from the opening we would be smoke-free, and actually I feel it's been beneficial to us. I believe had we allowed smoking, our business would have been less than what it is," said John Petty, owner of the Bagel Place.
The smoking ban hit opposition since many believe that cities and business owners should have the final say on smoking within their establishments.
"I think it's probably better that the business owner decides for themselves, but as a customer to businesses, I prefer it to be non-smoking, but as a business owner, again I lean toward the business owners being able to control his own establishment," said Petty.
ProNews 7 asked Petty why there are so many smoke-free restaurants in Amarillo.
"We have seen a larger number of people becoming non-smokers, and I believe a large number of people tend to stay away from smoking areas, so if a small restaurant like we have here, if you allow smoking there would be, I feel like a number of people that would not come here because of that," said Petty.
Currently there are hundreds of restaurants in Amarillo that are smoke-free. A link to a list is provided below.
