Atlantic Station 'bans' smoking
This aggression will not stand, man
Last weekend, Atlantic Station posed a question on its Facebook page: should smoking be banned at the outdoor shopping/living/dining (and Creative Loafing office-having) district?
Last time I checked, the feedback was mixed (granted, 591 people commented and I didn't look at each and every one). But based on what they're calling "overwhelming feedback in favor of a smoke-free environment," they're banning smoking. Well, they're prohibiting smoking in common areas and putting designated smoking areas along the mall's periphery.
From their blog:
Just in time for the BB&T Atlanta Open, smoking will no longer be permitted in Atlantic Station's common areas, including the Central Park green space and sidewalks.
Non-smoking policies may vary for restaurants with al fresco dining areas. Designated smoking areas, placed around the perimeter of the property in order to continue accommodating all guests, will be identified with "Smoking Spot" signs.
Not everyone is thrilled about the announcement (especially because it was announced on Facebook as a "ban," which it isn't).
One dude said, "That is ridiculous. It is outdoors! It is a proven scientific fact that cars produce more pollution and carcinogens than cigarettes. I don't see an effort to ban those. People have become giant whining babies. Next will they ban large sodas. You have lost a very loyal Midtown consumer."
Others are thrilled. A lady wrote, "Thank you so very much. i appreciate the air that is shared between me and other people when i shop there. my fiance will be thrilled and since he works right around the block from you guys he'll probably start eating there more."
Really? Your fiance wasn't eating at Atlantic Station because he might encounter people who smoke? Isn't it equally likely that your fiance will be around people who smoke, you know, anywhere else in the outdoor world where smoking is and always has been allowed? Does he hide inside all day? He sounds awful, and you should call off the wedding.
More recently, Atlantic Station asked Facebook followers if Regal Cinemas should serve booze. I hope they get on that just as fast.