Posted on 03/18/2006 1:31:15 PM PST by SheLion
BURLINGTON, Vt. --The Veterans of Foreign Wars post in Hyde Park is defying a 6-month-old state law and will allow members to smoke in a private section of the club.
Sign up for: Globe Headlines e-mail | Breaking News Alerts VFW Post 7779 Commander Bruce Martin, a nonsmoker, said he was one of those who voted to allow smoking. The issue was more than cigarettes.
"These people are sick of the state taking away our private rights," he said.
Immediately after club members voted 7-4 Tuesday night to bring back smoking a number of members lit up.
VFW auxiliary member Robin Ferris filed a complaint Wednesday with the Vermont Health Department.
Ferris who used to work in the VFW said that when she worked there she suffered frequent respiratory ailments and her clothes smelled of smoke.
"I don't want to be affiliated with the kind of organization that breaks state law," Ferris said.
Health Department Spokesman Robert Stirewalt said he was unaware of the complaint.
He said when a complaint is filed a staff member is sent to investigate.
Stirewalt said there have been a handful of complaints since the law took effect in September and all have been settled voluntarily.
Martin said members would decide what to do if the Health Department investigated Ferris's complaint.
"I imagine we'll fight it," he said.
Organizations that refuse to comply can be fined up to $10,000 or each offense.
"Obviously, we're hoping that's not the case" with the VFW, Stirewalt said.
VT: Elks Vote No On Smoking Ban.
Elks Vote No On Smoking Ban Burlington, Vermont -- June 18, 2004 Several states and cities have enacted smoking bans in bars and restaurants, but in Burlington the prohibition does not apply to private clubs. One of those clubs, the Elks, considered a voluntary smoking ban Thursday night. Elks Exalted Ruler Moe Decelles told Channel 3 News that the members defeated the voluntary smoking ban on a vote of 125-45, an almost three-to-one margin. Decelles says smoking is allowed at the Elks bar and lounge, but an existing no smoking policy will continue in a separate room used for functions.
If you wish to show your support, write a letter to the Hyde Park VFW Post 7779 POB 237 Hyde Park Vermont 05655, I am sure they would love your comments
Great idea! Thanks so much for the information!
The e-mail to the VFW is:
vfw7779@aol.com
Isn't it coincidental that this woman, self righteous as it may sound, is holding her wedding at the same post in April? I guess she doesn't mind associating with those law breakers when it benefits her needs??!!??
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