The Epoch Times asked Bay Area locals, smokers and nonsmokers, what they think about banning smoking at street festivals and fairs in the city of San Francisco.
Tucker Cunningham, 21, graphic design student, Tenderloin
“I would be OK with them banning smoking, because I’m not a smoker myself. But for the street events, that’s one of the main reasons why I love San Francisco ... Usually they don’t really charge anything; it’s usually free for the public. But there’s probably a big cleanup after each one. So, there are pros and cons.”
Christina Mason, 27, copywriter, Lower Haight
“Yes, I think that’s great. I hate smoking. I hate the smell. ... It’s disgusting. It smells and it messes up my skin. I don’t like it. Yes, [even if] it’s a public event, it’s outside, they should not be able to smoke, at all, period.”
Pedro Ospina, 49, architect, Fremont
“[I agree with the ban], because I am trying to enjoy a healthy environment everywhere, not smelling the smoking from anyone else.”
Lee Chua, 31, sales, East Bay
“There at least should be a designated area. ... But if they ban smoking, but you can smoke pretty much anywhere where you can find a spot without a lot of people, and it’s a huge area ... I don’t see why they would ban smoking. ... But if it’s a small enclosed-type, a bunch of people are put together … then I can see that. So, I’m for both—half and half.”
Deandrea Shaverds, 30, pharmacist, Berkeley
“I think it’s a good idea, because people who don’t smoke can easily come in contact with secondhand smoke. That’s more deadly than smoking itself. I wouldn’t mind it.”
