Art’s bans smoking

From staff reports

Patrons will no longer walk out of Art’s Tavern — one of Leelanau County’s most popular drinking holes — smelling like an ashtray. Effective Nov. 1, owner Tim Barr (who we like to call Glen Arbor’s unofficial mayor) banned the use of cancer sticks on his premises.

“These days, it seems like 80 percent of people (or more) don’t smoke, so they’re in the majority,” said Barr, who made the populist decision before the state or the county get around to enacting a ban on smoking in local bars or restaurants. Barr added that the move has drawn nothing but praise — especially from his employees. And customers have already commented that the establishment smells nicer since Nov. 1.

“I’ve been breathing smoke for 35 years,” says Barr. “It’s time to think about my health, too.”

Will this move affect revenues — the crux of the argument by industry groups against legislated smoking bans in Michigan? Sure it will. In fact, Barr expects to draw more customers to smoke-free Art’s (which means more money). … He can also expect more business from the editors of the Glen Arbor Sun, who like to throw back pints, but don’t like secondhand smoke-induced hangovers the next morning.

In other news, Art’s will install a brand new bar this month, made from nearby cherry and maple wood, to commemorate its 75th birthday this year.