KFVS12 News & Weather Cape Girardeau, Carbondale, Poplar BluffBusiness Owner Snubs Nose at State Smoking Ban

Business Owner Snubs Nose at State Smoking Ban

Business Owner Snubs Nose at State Smoking Ban
By: Arnold Wyrick

WEST FRANKFORT, Ill. - Shortly after the State of Illinois' no smoking ban was implemented, some grass roots efforts tried to get it abolished.  But, to no avail, and all smokers were forced to light up outside and at least 15 feet from a public doorway.

But, one business owner in West Frankfort isn't adhering to the ban, and isn't planning on doing so anytime soon.

"This country was founded on civil disobedience, that's where this country came from.  And now people have lost the will to fight," said Jon Hemminghaus.  He's the owner of Wounded Rig, a boat and refurbishing company.

Hemminghaus is even refusing to post the mandatory no smoking signs on his business doors.

"They can fine me all they want to, write as many violations as they like.  But, I won't pay them.  They come and get me and do whatever they want to do."

Now he wants to take things one step further in his fight against the statewide ban.  And is planning to host a 'smoke in' in his place of business on March 1st.

"There comes a time when you've just got to stand up for what you believe in and your freedom.  Just because these lawmakers and politicians put that law out there, it doesn't mean that everybody has to bow down and say it's a law we've got to do it."