You have got to ask what this means! Below is information from Councilmember Montgomery. She really really got it wrong!
MPAAT funds smoking cessation for people... even inner city neighborhoods like Ward 1! ANSR contacted MPAAT and the American Cancer Society to see if it would be possible to pour more resources into promoting use of MPAAT services in the inner city. Both MPAAT and the American Cancer Society agreed to work with the community to have a very targeted promotion among inner city residents through churches, neighborhood festivals, community events and using community newspapers and radio stations. We presented this information to Councilmember Montgomery in writing. Frankly, we got not response from her. It did not appear that she understood that FREE cessation services were available through MPAAT to all Minnesotans, even though we repeatedly told her so. Insurance is not necessary to get MPAAT assistance. When Councilmember Montgomery said she was particularly concerned about private clubs, Councilmember Thune offered to develop an exemption for those clubs. Again, Council member Montgomery did not respond. Every effort was made to meet both Mayor Kelly's apparent objections and Councilmember Montgomery's objections. We met their stated objections. Unfortunately, it appears that their real objections were not the same as their state objections. See Montgomery's comments below. Jeanne Weigum Merriam Park Since it*s introduction the Smoking Ban has consumed a great deal of City Council time, and may have left Ward 1 constituents confused as to where Councilmember Montgomery stands on the issue. Therefore, it is her goal to reiterate that her concerns remain the same. She has always suggested that a Smoking Ban should be introduced at a higher level as to truly get everyone statewide on board. "I know smoking is bad for one*s health" but I remain concerned that proposed solutions do not take into account the un-insured, under insured, un-employed and under employed, nor did it offer aids to assist people in kicking the habit. Yes, small dollar amounts were mentioned, but nothing that would assist people within those groups and largely in Ward 1, long term. Councilmember Montgomery*s concern for small bars (V.F.W., American Legion and Private Bottle Clubs) is reflected from her experience as a police officer, "When people don*t have the means to smoke indoors they will go outside" and what will follow? "Their drinks", police officers will then be faced with enforcing two issues. -- Jeanne Weigum 651-646-3005 fax 651-646-0142 _____________________________________________ To Join: St. Paul Issues Forum Rules Discussion Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] _____________________________________________ NEW ADDRESS FOR LIST: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To subscribe, modify subscription, or get your password - visit: http://www.mnforum.org/mailman/listinfo/stpaul Archive Address: http://www.mnforum.org/mailman/private/stpaul/
