Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Dear Guv. Culver (pt.1)
Sent: April 15, 2008Dear Governor Culver,
Congratulations on your recent anti-smoking legislation!
I have a suggestion on what you should focus on next. Now that Iowans will no longer be allowed to smoke in restaurants or bars the "no smoking" sections will no longer be needed. I think a law should be passed to make these "no kids allowed" sections. Just like they were before, but instead of banning smokers, you get a law passed banning kids!
Think about it. How many times has a perfectly good meal, that you paid hard earned money for, been ruined by a crying baby, screaming toddler, or a pesky child poking his head over the back of your booth? With the declining dollar, and rising food and fuel costs, it becomes ever more important that Iowans out for a relaxing meal actually get to relax.
I realize kids aren't as bad as smokers (since they haven't been proven to cause cancer), but they can be just as annoying. Isn't it about time something was done about this?
On a different note, I thought Barack Obama stood no chance of becoming President with a name like that! But I figure if a man named "Chet" can become Governor, we can have a President named Barak. Thanks for endorsing him. You had my vote, he'll get mine in the general election.
Sincerely,
Christopher L. Jorgensen
p.s. if possible could I get an autographed photo?
Reply Dated: April 22, 2008
Office of the Governor
Chester J. Culver
Governor
Patty Judge
Lt. Governor
State Capitol
Des Moines, Iowa 50319
515.281.5211
Fax 515.281.6611
www.governor.iowa.gov
Dear Christopher:
Thank you for contacting our office regarding state prohibitions against smoking. We appreciate your taking the time to contact us.
When House File 2212 – the Smoke Free Air Act – was enacted into law, it made Iowa the 14th state in the nation to pass a statewide smoking ban that includes restaurants, bars and workplaces. Our goal is to make Iowa the healthiest state in the nation. We understand there are compelling arguments against this bill; no legislation is perfect, however, we believe that the bottom line is that this bill will save lives. Our Administration believes that by enacting the Smoke Free Air Act our state is joining together with one common purpose: to build a healthier Iowa.
We understand that Iowans have many questions regarding exactly where smoking will, and will not, be permitted in Iowa on July 1, 2008. The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) is in the process of writing Administrative Rules to provide guidance on the enforcement provisions of the law. The Administrative Rules have not been finalized. As more information becomes available, it will be posted on the IDPH website: http://www.idph.state.ia.us/tobacco/smokefree.asp . This website also has a link to House File 2212, and provides an opportunity for Iowans to ask IDPH questions.
Again thank you for contacting our office and please feel free to do so in the future.
Sincerely,
[signed] [signed] Chester J. Culver Patty Judge Governor Lt. Governor
My reaction:
[Originally published: Tuesday, June 17, 2008]
I thought this letter had already gone up! That’s the problem with being as popular as I am. I can’t keep track of all the people writing me! I need a secretary or an intern. My girlfriend/editor/typist says she’s applying for this position (and she’s willing to wear the appropriate apparel, so this opening is closed!).
I guess with State budgets being what they are an autographed photo was out of the question. Makes me sad. You can’t see, but I am frowning right now. I really thought Chet would come through for me.
As you may, or may not know, I live in Iowa. It kinda makes me proud to be from a state that would elect a man that chooses to go by the name of Chet, but this is offset by the fact that Chet didn’t address my concern.
Maybe I need to get a petition going, lobby for the banning of children in public places!
Posted by cjorgensen on 12/31 at 06:00 AM
Political •
