Pantagraph.com | News | Students' plan for hookah bar no pipe dream

Note: All views and opinions expressed in reader comments are solely those of the individual submitting the comment, and not those of the Pantagraph or its staff.

curious wrote on Nov 14, 2007 8:35 AM:

" can someone explain to me how a private business can be considered a public place, i thought a public place had to be land managed by the government, i didnt realize when someone bought an establishment everybody could claim ownership of it. "

Sad Day wrote on Nov 12, 2007 9:08 PM:

" You know that a non-smoker is going to apply to work there, and then whine to the government when they are subjected to smoke, right? "

Jen-Dizzle wrote on Nov 12, 2007 9:07 PM:

" So - We already have a hooka bar - it's called Smoker's Den. And they are cheaper...might want to reconsider the prices! Furthermore, there is way more of a bar/night cene in downtown bloomington, than normal. Normal has house parties - not much of a night life. Might want to reconsider price and location. "

LLLLLLLLLLLLLL wrote on Nov 12, 2007 2:27 PM:

" Good Luck with your new business fellas !!! ..................... "

to:kso wrote on Nov 12, 2007 10:26 AM:

" it's quite clear that you are a supporter of ISHookah lounge, but smashing the Smoker's Den is not only childish, but stupid. They been offering Hookahs longer than these guys and only charge a couple of bucks. I've been going there for over a year now and have had a great time every week. Get a clue! "

kso wrote on Nov 11, 2007 10:27 PM:

" i think its a great idea. i mean we have smokers den but its really kinda dirty. so i look forward to this place. its at least something for the people that aren't 21 to do. "

Jim wrote on Nov 10, 2007 8:42 AM:

" What stops bugs and diseases from being rampant with everyone sucking on the same bowl of hookah water? A replaceable tip wont stop much. I cant believe that Normal will taint their Uptown image by allowing such a controversial kind of business. "

radlady wrote on Nov 10, 2007 4:29 AM:

" I think the idea of a hookah bar is a new thing to the area and that is whats upsetting some people. I say give it a chance and see what comes of it..Besides if u don't want to be around smoke..don't go. And as for the live bands for the younger under 21 students, it would be a good alternative to house partys once in a while. "

TO: JD wrote on Nov 9, 2007 11:00 AM:

" Normally just seeing JD's name on posts makes me want to post and disagree with everything he says, because he is usually a crazy radical... But I almost partially agree with him... I am a non-smoker who really apprecaites the fact taht no smoking is allowed in resturants and stuff (because non-smokers should be allowed there without having to inhale scientifically proven harmful smokes) because resturants are aimed toward hungry people... However this bar is AIMED at smokers, I dont see any reason why a non-smoker would even be in there if he wasnt in there to smoke... I cant belive there is a debate on this. (and "less is more" is probably right also) "

to: Cowboy wrote on Nov 9, 2007 9:25 AM:

" How did you miss the part that the State did not ban smoking, or smoking within tobacco retail establishments? Why don't you call your state representative and tell him you want to ban smoking....see what he/she tells you. If no one bought tobabbacco for a few days, the State would be rinso. And, as someone else posted, why are you so so interested in other people's business? Yes, it's a public place, but I hardly think people who don't smoke or children will be forced to frequent a Hookah Bar. "

To: No diff wrote on Nov 9, 2007 9:18 AM:

" Are you kidding me? Why would only pothead frequent the place when they won't be serving up any pot? You are an idiot, and only goes to show that people that are against this business really have no idea what they are talking about, and are just grasping at straws. Making these ridiculous broad-sweeping, statements that reeks of propaganda for the purpose of getting as many people on their side as possible, no matter how untrue the statements are. All kinds of people will be frequenting this new business, no just potheads. I guess it's true what they say: Small town, small minds. "

to: ? wrote on Nov 9, 2007 8:48 AM:

" Where did Michael Dell get the money to start a computer company while in college? College students are not barred from accepting venture capital, or having their own nest egg, you know. "

to: Ironwoman wrote on Nov 9, 2007 8:46 AM:

" Because "conservative" when mixed with less conservative, becomes less conservative. How else would you make progress and keep up? "

to: no diff wrote on Nov 8, 2007 5:04 PM:

" crack pipes? apparently, you know absolutely nothing whatsoever about the real use of crack cocaine. not to say thats a bad thing, necessarily, but you go on to make a very public fool of yourself by joyfully displaying your cultural ignorance. thank god for internet anonymity, right? i assure you, no regular crack user is so much as even stepping foot in a "head shop". there is nothing there for them, they are far too busy scoring crack, money for crack, or some other cheap way to stay as high as possible until crack is found. the head shops are, for all intents and purposes, only popular with one "drug" group: strict potheads (we can assume these guys are known for use of psychedelics, as well). BIG, BIG, BIG EFFING DIFFERENCE, BUDDY. "

to mark wrote on Nov 8, 2007 4:24 PM:

" I just wanted to comment on your comment that it is better for you than smoking cigarettes or cigars. Cigarettes yes, cigars no. It is commonly accepted that you inhale hookah tobbaco and cigarettes while smoking, while any real imported cigar smoker will never inhale. Therefore it is apparent that cigars are going to be far less harmful to your lungs due to the fact the smoke never reaches them. Oh yea there is not one premium imported cigar on the market with additives, you really need to research before you start to blabber on about things you do not understand. "

Cartman wrote on Nov 7, 2007 1:09 PM:

" Before you know it there will be a drum circle three-miles wide! "

No diff wrote on Nov 6, 2007 1:33 PM:

" They sell the big weed pipes at mother murphys and have for 30 years, They sell Crack pipes 100 yards from the childrens museum,(go look for yourself). So how can you complain about these guys ? If you can sell drug pipes on one block you should be able to sell a little tobacco smoke on the next block. "

hey JD wrote on Nov 6, 2007 9:40 AM:

" less is more...we are all tired of you. "

JD wrote on Nov 5, 2007 7:37 PM:

" I said that the smoking ban was just a control effort when it was being discussed, but thought I was reading too much into it, and that it was all about health issues. Now the truth is being seen, but it is too late. The residents of Illinois gave up some freedom now to be safer, but so that control freaks could get their way. You can rest assured though, they will not be stopping. Next they will be seeking a way to ban places like this lounge, and next they will be in your closet telling you that you have to wear orange and blue, because it is soothing. Laugh if you will, remember that the smoking ban was 'all about health' too. "

To: To: To?? : JD wrote on Nov 5, 2007 3:10 PM:

" My only beef with some of the comments here, are from people who won't even be affected by this proposed Hookah business. Now, they are protesting it for the sake of protesting! Crying, "what about the ban?!" How crazy is it that the biggest protesters of cigarettes and biggest proponents of the ban, didn't even bother to educate themselves on the specifics of the ban. Such as the part that states retail tobacco shops are exempt from this ban. This is probably because ONLY smokers will be utilizing this business, and therefore non-smokers will not be "victim" to being thrust into smoke against their will. So what other possible legitimate reason could people have to protest about? "

To: To: To?? : JD wrote on Nov 5, 2007 3:10 PM:

" hmmmm.....yeah, I really hated to have to pull the "bar vs. cigarette" card, and am a little disappointed in myself for doing so. As for having many other addictions, well if you get right down to it that's true for anybody. Everybody has vices. I actually don't drink because it doesn't agree with my tummy, however. I agree with the smoke in your food. Whenever I went out to eat before the ban, I normally would choose non-smoking unless I was with a group of my smoker friends. I love a cigarette after dinner, especially after a mighty tasty dinner, but I don't particularly enjoy the smell of SHS when I'm eating. That being said, there were many restaurants, for instance Olive Garden, that did a fine job of separating the two sections. Never once was my dinner affected by the waft of cigarette smoke. The same cannot be said for Steak n' Shake, who laughingly only put six inches of open space between the two sections. "

to to JD wrote on Nov 5, 2007 1:03 PM:

" I roll my eyes at all of JD's posts...I also agree with much of what you said, until you bring in the alcohol issue at the end. Not that isn't right as well...it's just that for most smokers, cigarette smoke is far from their only addiction. They are polluting their lungs AND drowning their livers as well. Which just rehashes the same old stuff, I have never advocated, despite being a non-smoker a ban on smoking in bars...just don't get it, it is not a health food store. But I really enjoy not smelling smoke when I eat. "

To: JD wrote on Nov 5, 2007 9:56 AM:

" Normally I'd roll my eyes at your posts, but I agree with you on this. I was shocked to read the outraged posts from people that wouldn't be affected by this business! I AM a smoker, and do what I can to be considerate of others: don't light up within 10 feet of anybody in public, I don't stand at the entrances of restaurants blowing smoke in the faces of people that are walking in or out, and I don't scowl back and at people that are sneering at me merely for smoking a cigarette 10 feet away from them. You can be a model citizen, do-gooder, Treat-people-how-you-want-to-be-treated kind of person, but if you're a smoker as well, it's like you're in bed with the devil himself! The only reason for so many non-smokers to get so bothered by a business they wouldn't even patronize is CONTROL. Everybody has to do what they think it's right, or else we have to listen to whining and complaining but never any good reason to protest this business. What makes this new place worse than a bar? Since when is drowning your liver in alcohol safer than smoking? "

JD (cont) wrote on Nov 3, 2007 4:08 PM:

" The only reason a non-smoker could be affected by the hookah bar, is if they chose to go into it. Since the service provided is smoking, there is no reason a non-smoker would have to even enter the building. Thus the non-smoker would not be impacted at all. By the comments here though, the non-smokers are against this just because of the smoking that will be going on in it, not because it affects them at all. Thusly, the person is attempting to control the actions of others, based solely on the desire to control them, not any health issue. So you tell me how being against allowing people to control others for kicks and giggles makes me a smoker? "

JD wrote on Nov 3, 2007 4:04 PM:

" How does one being against others continued attempts to control others choices make me a smoker? I am neither for or against smoking. It is a persons choice that they have to make and live with. I am against people who want to force their personal choice on others, and do not accept responsibility for their actions. Every negative post about this topic has nothing to do with the hookah bar, but with people wanting to force their choices on those that are willing to utilize this service. Non-smokers have no reason to go into this place, yet still are complaining just because their is smoking going to be going on. (cont) "

dude JD wrote on Nov 3, 2007 9:56 AM:

" do you really read your own rants before you click on the "post comment" button? Your whole smoking crusade thing is really tiring, especially since you claim that you are a non-smoker, what a fantasy that must be for you, akin to a man dying of chirrosis of the liver and telling you that he never had a drink. "

Hookah in Alice/Wonderland wrote on Nov 2, 2007 10:25 PM:

" Remember the Caterpillar? Wasnt he enjoying a hookah? Nobody banned that book, did they?! Relax folks! "

to for JD wrote on Nov 2, 2007 4:17 PM:

" how about getting an original thought of your own...and everyone knows JD is a smoker. "

No BOOZE!?!?!? wrote on Nov 2, 2007 1:53 PM:

" I give it six months, tops. "

don't worry wrote on Nov 2, 2007 11:14 AM:

" Silly rabbit, the water doesn't filter out the carcinogens, thats what your lungs are for. "

Pink Monkey wrote on Nov 2, 2007 10:39 AM:

" The Smoker's Den Rocks!!! "

For JD: wrote on Nov 2, 2007 9:49 AM:

" I disagree with your comments sometimes, but you are on the mark on this one. When I read the story, my first thought was: This is a perfect opportunity for would-be activist non-smokers to go to the new business only to complain about SHS. And how aggravating is it when they all scream "What about the Smoking Ban?!!" Especially when the very ban they lobbied for states very clearly that retail tobacco shops are exempt. What's more, is that they are obviously making nasty comments about this business without even reading the story, where it clearly states that this new business would be exempt from the ban and why. It IS all about power and control. My way or the highway, even if it doesn't even affect them! So, JD, on this subject I completely agree with you. By the way, I also am a non-smoker. Quit a few years ago. Good day. "

no big deal! wrote on Nov 2, 2007 9:43 AM:

" Everyone needs to calm down. The Smoker's Den is a great place to hang out, but i think that having something in Normal is not a bad idea. A lot of the patrons at the Smoker's Den are either 1) already downtown or 2) won't go anywhere else. That's fine. But there are a lot of stundent who are NOT 21, who do NOT have vehicles that need something to do. There aren't many places for students to really go on a Friday or Saturday night that don't spell trouble. I've never read so many comments from whiney, closed-minded people in my entire life! "

ummm Pantagraph wrote on Nov 2, 2007 8:44 AM:

" I thought you charged for advertising, yet you let the guy from the smoking place on to rant about these kids. Perhaps advertisers should be able to post all the time, or get a rebate. "

Glad to be Gone wrote on Nov 2, 2007 7:36 AM:

" Having been raised in BN, I truly enjoy reading the Pantagraph, particularly the comments that follow the stories. Only the incongruent logic of Mayor Daley can provide better fodder for an early morning laugh. But, you are all missing the point. Visit the website. It reads like a couple of sixth graders wrote it. I am all for these young men and hope they succeed (Mark Cuban started this way). But fellas, learn some grammar. Develop a sense of design (or visit an art class). And always remember; "You'll never go broke underestimating the poor taste of the American public." "

Ya-YA sister wrote on Nov 1, 2007 11:29 PM:

" Someone referenced "Mother Murphy's". Is that place still open? I still have stuff laying around in a box somewhere that I bought there back in the 70's and hauled back to Texas. Loved the Furry Freak Bros comics!!! Good Luck to you young men and your enterprise..I am nearly a blue hair myself but I wish you prosperity. Ya'll lighten up...this is merely a stepping stone to their business smarts in the future. "

Problam wrote on Nov 1, 2007 5:21 PM:

" I only see one problem. Does "shisha" give you a buzz. If not what's the point. "

JD wrote on Nov 1, 2007 5:20 PM:

" That is the point I was making, when I talked about this being a control issue. Non-smokers pushed through the smoking ban claiming it was about SHS health issues. Now here comes a business which offers no service to a non-smoker, but still has smoking, and suddenly the non-smoking crowd want to find other faults to get it closed down. These people are not worried about health in the least bit. They just wants to force, ie control, others and force them into being mini-me's. It was pointed out then that this was the issue, and is being proven true now. "

OMG!!!! wrote on Nov 1, 2007 3:29 PM:

" Did the anti-smoking arguement just go from "It can cause me cancer when I sit 30 feet away from you" to "You'll get herpes?" This sounds alot like the gov't arguement against marijuanna. First "IT WILL KILL YOU" to "If you smoke weed you'll forget to do something important." What next "smoking tobacco causes the economy to crash?" Get real people, you are just repeating the gov't propoganda which you've been fed, and swallowed whole without even thinking about that which you are spewing forth. "

T wrote on Nov 1, 2007 3:23 PM:

" STD's are so much fun.....They're Grrrrreat "

To: Agree with Harmful wrote on Nov 1, 2007 12:11 PM:

" Well, if you are so worried about all that stuff, then why aren't you protesting bars - after all, lot's of people hook up there and are probably spreading around all kinds of fun STD's. Not to mention the fact that alcohol diseases the liver. Worst of all, think of how many hands, that don't get washed after using the potty, dip into the complimentary bowl of mixed nuts? The list of possible diseases coming from the nut bowl is endless! Now let's move on to work-out places. Chances are, those benches and equipment aren't wiped down after each use. Think of all those crabs that are crawling around all over the place!! You know what? I think this new business might be safer than some of the other businesses here in town. Why don't you run along and protest those. "

To: Harmful and Agree with Harmful wrote on Nov 1, 2007 11:59 AM:

" What's wrong with this new business, huh? If you don't like chicken, would you go to the City Council and demand that they shut down KFC? This business would be exempt from the ban because it is a retail tobacco store - JUST LIKE IT SAYS IN THE ARTICLE. Actually, this is a good thing, because maybe it will get people out of the bars. THOSE are more harmful than businesses like this new one. When people leave a smoking den and get behind the wheel, they don't have to worry about a DUI, or killing someone in a drunken driving accident (not that drunks actually worry about that). Additionally, you need to quit whining about second hand smoke. The first-hand smokers aren't going to care if they're around second-hand smoke. I swear, smoke nazis are such simpletons! "

To: Agree with Harmful wrote on Nov 1, 2007 11:32 AM:

" Doesn't ANYBODY read the article before commenting? This business is a retail tobacco store. They are exempt from the smoking ban. Besides, this business would hurt you any, so what is everybody's problem? I am so sick of the snobby, stuck up, my way or the highway mentality. If you don't like it, you are free to go, or MOVE, somewhere else. I feel like I am back in junior high with all this nit picking and griping. You can write to the City Council all you want, but they made the rules, and gave into the whining of the smoke-nazis just like you wanted them to. Now you are going to dispute the very ban that you rallied for? Read the rules of the ban, or better yet, read the article before making your belligerent comments. You people act like you are better than everybody else, but you are obviously more ignorant. It's common sense: If you don't like the business, don't go there. Duh! "

If wrote on Nov 1, 2007 9:59 AM:

" you dont like it..don't go. IT HAS NOTHING TO DO YOU WITH NON SMOKERS! Obviously, this is a place for people who wish to go someplace to socialize and get a taste of different tobaccos which should not be a crime or be criticized. At least they don't have fake IDs trying to get into bars. I would rather them go to places like this, than to bars or friends houses to drink! If you don't like smoke, DONT GO! Pick any bar in Bloomington/Normal instead since none of them allow smoking. Congratulations...now take your victory and take it somewhere else. "

Daddy (not Mommy) wrote on Oct 31, 2007 10:20 PM:

" These boys have been brave enough to try out a new venture and hard working enough to make it happen. THEY have come up with the ideas, energy and capitol so, "Chi Town Kids" sorry your parents only gave you lunch money but perhaps if you had come up with an idea worthy of merit you might have gotten more than a cheese sandwich for lunch. When all is said and done, the success and longevity of this business venture will be determined by the Customer. If you don’t smoke or don’t want to smoke, you don't have to go there. If you do smoke, why not try it out. Competition usually benefits the consumer with better pricing and customer service so having something else in addition to Smokers Den should be seen as a good thing. I for one wish the boys great success. If its not they will still have tried and, as the saying goes, "its better to have tried and failed than never tried at all". "

Agree with HARMFUL; note to City Council wrote on Oct 31, 2007 10:10 PM:

" What happened to our smoking ban????? If our city council would take the time to research this hookah thing a bit more, they may find what I did on Google.... "In addition to the inherent risks of smoking tobacco, researchers say that second-hand smoke and the spread of infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and herpes make hookah use a growing public health concern." "

JD wrote on Oct 31, 2007 9:16 PM:

" It does not matter if it is harmful or not. It is the decision of the adult if they wish to take the risk or not. Just like adults take a risk eating greasy foods, driving across town, or crossing the street. The protests have nothing to do with risks, but everything to do with control. The business model target smokers in specific, and does not offer any service for a non-smoker at all. This is upsetting to many non-smokers who, because of the smoking ban, feel way more important than they actually are. So it is not against the law, they have no reason to make it about them, and they can not enforce their opinions on others about it. "

jgerrard wrote on Oct 31, 2007 8:23 PM:

" I can't believe these comments! First off, a hookah isn't some method of glamorizing drug use. It's a smoking pipe common for CENTURIES in the Middle East & Mediterranean. "Sheisha" is the Egyptian slang for hookah - and it's exclusively used for fruit-flavored tobacco. If someone put marijuana in it, everyone would know because it would smell like marijuana.Second, what's with the Chicago v. Bloomington/Normal crap? I grew up in Bloomington and went to college in Chicago. I always found it really annoying when B/N people invented this "us vs. them" mentality towards the city. Get real. Chicago is just a couple hours away and it's not what people hype it up to be. Far too many "born and bred" Bloomington folks think the people in the city are all about judging people from central Illinois and that they think they're better than them - and they counter that with being against anything new or anything they interpret as "city-like." Truth is, the people in Chicago aren't judging you. Just because some new kind of business in Bloomington is starting, that doesn't mean that people are just trying to "copy those city folks." Get over yourself. "

very amused wrote on Oct 31, 2007 7:40 PM:

" man reading these comments i have seen that all the people who seem to be against the idea of this hooka lounge seem to be townies "

HEY HIPPES wrote on Oct 31, 2007 5:37 PM:

" If you dont like the hookah bar,DONT GO THERE. Those boys have the right to run their buisness as they see fit....... "

DwightH wrote on Oct 31, 2007 5:09 PM:

" to: to dwight. Seems like I'm not the only one here at the farm readin' and postin' to the blogs. and, no, I don't think I rent to these guys. Maybe I should?? "

To: HARMFUL wrote on Oct 31, 2007 5:05 PM:

" Great, you know how to read. Then you should also have the common sense to know that you don't have to frequent this new business if you don't want to. As for the smokers, they know what the risks are, so leave them alone. Everybody has vices that aren't good for them, even hoity-toities like you. And I'm sure we could come up with all sorts of fun websites that provides just as much propaganda on your vices. Moral of the story: if it doesn't affect you, then get over it!! "

To: re ugh wrote on Oct 31, 2007 5:01 PM:

" So, do you have a report from Mayo clinic that states that carcinogens cannot be removed by smoking through water? Actually, I think everybody is missing the point here: If you do not like the idea of this business, you do not have to patronize the place. End of story. If you didn't like fish, would you demand that Red Lobster not put up shop in this town? That is how ridiculous these arguments are. Whether or not carcinogens are removed really isn't the issue. Smokers know the risks they take. Now if a non-smoker doesn't want to risk getting cancer simply by sitting in the same building as a smoker (can you say paranoia?) then don't go in the building! It never ceases to amaze me how people seem to lose all common sense when it comes to the fight against smoking. Let's worry a little less about the smokers, and a little more about our own vices - we all have them. "

To I agree wrote on Oct 31, 2007 4:39 PM:

" Yeah! Let's tar and feather them and get 'em out of town!! "

Re: Re: to: Ugh wrote on Oct 31, 2007 4:19 PM:

" He never said smoking out of a hooka lowers carcinogens from smoke, but "and using a tobacco that's low in tar in nicotine like this bar will do, you can successfully rid the tobacco of most, if not all, carcinogens when pulling the smoke through the use of a water bong." So, oh my god, MAYBE he is right in this circumstance. Most of you know I (Gov't opressed Mule) am the first to argue for smokers rights, but I agree with YOU that under normal circumstances pulling smoke through water does not lower the carcinogens, but in this case as sited by TO: UGH he is correct, so please read these posts before criticizing someone for something they did not say. "

Just some insight wrote on Oct 31, 2007 3:35 PM:

" Smokers den seems a bit jealous of this new business.... anyone get that impression? Better yet, embrace it, both of you guys (ISHL and SD) should combine forces and you could only benefit each other surely??? Just a thought...... "

T wrote on Oct 31, 2007 3:20 PM:

" it does not matter if it harmful or not, if you dont smoke then you dont have to go. personally i love smoking and i will be there. thank you "

HARMFUL per Amer Lung Assoc wrote on Oct 31, 2007 2:42 PM:

" Google it people! Go to American Lung Association's site for the whole article: www.lungusa.org Here is part of the article.... "Existing research warns that hookah smoking poses the same or similar health risks as cigarette smoking. The report also looked at the existing research behind hookah use, and finds some disturbing results: Because a typical smoking session lasts 40 to 45 minutes, versus five to 10 minutes to smoke a cigarette, exposure to dangerous chemicals is increased with hookah use. Teens were eight times more likely to experiment with cigarettes if they’d ever used a hookah. The fact that hookah use also increases the chances that kids will start smoking cigarettes should be of great concern to policymakers and the general public. "

lindini wrote on Oct 31, 2007 2:39 PM:

" I've been to middle eastern type resturaunts in the city who offer this service and it simply is just no big deal. I understand that many people in this town can't stop clutching their pearls anytime they see something that isnt common place but the accusations that this is a drug den or anything other than what it is are just silly. If someone opened a cigar store would you be so reactionary? It is just plain old smoke folks. No big deal. "

Mark wrote on Oct 31, 2007 2:04 PM:

" As far as Smokers Den goes. Scott Lynch is a great guy, I have used his shop for my personal shisha on multiple occasions. What he has done is great, and we can only hope to accomplish what he has so far. We are in no way trying to take away any business from Scott and do not wish to create any hostility. I wish no disrespect and believe we deserve the same. The Smokers Den and the Illinois State Hookah Lounge offer two completely different experiences, each one exclusive to itself. So now the consumer has the choice, and that makes him/her happy. Overall I think its good for all of us, because the smokers den have a solid client base, and we are accessable to all ISU students wanting to smoke but without transportation to the Bloomington Area. We wish Smokers Den a happy Haloween and continued success!! "

Reformed Hippy wrote on Oct 31, 2007 2:02 PM:

" I could care less if they open this place I'm just amazed Normal's city fathers are so carefree about licensing a place designed around smoking when you can't light up in a flipping bar!! I just think it is completely unbelievable! "

Mark wrote on Oct 31, 2007 1:51 PM:

" As far as the hookah smoke goes, let me agree that the tobacco does not remove all carcinogens. On behalf of my partner, let me apologize for that misstatement. What we were actually trying to say was that hookah smoke is less harmful than its cousin the ciggarette/cigar. First of all, commercial tobacco is harvested completely differently than shisha, and contains little "additives" as in cigarettes. Things like urea are NOT found in shisha and reduce the danger to the Respitory System. We also do not advocate any drug use (excluding tobacco of course), and have minimized the risk of anyone "tampering" with the hookahs. Also thank you to all who support us and commend our efforts to live that "American dream". "

Mark wrote on Oct 31, 2007 1:48 PM:

" Hello everyone! I am half of what will soon be the Illinois State Hookah Lounge. We are very excited about this venture and have put months of work in, as well as going to school full time, to get thus far. Let me take a minute to address a few things that caught my attention when reading all of your great insights/comments. A lot of comments were of, or related to the smoking ban and our ability to conduct business with this legislature in effect. We, as a registered smoking establishment (we will have notification on the front door/window letting ALL know of this) are exempt of the ban because of this fact. We do not advocate any smoking that effects non-smokers. This has a positive effect overall because the smokers can smoke in their space and not have to worry about directly polluting the non-smokers air. "

so negative wrote on Oct 31, 2007 1:37 PM:

" I have read so many ignorant silly negative close minded comments. If you would never go there fine no one is asking you to. And how is it anyones business where they are getting the money to open the business. Why do you care. It's not your money or your business. Why does this place already have to be assumed that it will be a place for smoking pot etc. They have places like this all over the world. This business opening will not be doomsday like many of you old close minded people are acting. Like someone else said these guys are going to learn a lot from opening and running this place. Just because there are other places for young college students to hangout doesn't mean there's not room for another. Seriously some people in this town need to find peace and stop getting so angry and upset and offended about someone having a new idea that doesn't fit into your norm. "

Joshua wrote on Oct 31, 2007 1:03 PM:

" Hey all, I cant beleive some of these comments left?!? This Hookah Lounge will be awesome. Props the the business students. This place will be an excelent social gathering area. No smoking cigs or cigars.... GREAT no smelly smoke! Best wishes to a successful future guys! -Joshua "

Reformed Hippy wrote on Oct 31, 2007 1:00 PM:

" What happened to the B-N smoking ban??? Call it a Hookah Lounge call it a head shop bottom line where there is water and smoke there is probably pot, hash and probably things that weren't available when I was not a reformed hippy!!! You got to give the boys something for trying!! "

Long Time Resident wrote on Oct 31, 2007 12:47 PM:

" Last time I checked we were not ruled by Hu Jintao. If they are old enough, its a free country. Thats kind of the reason we fight wars.??? "

smokers den customer wrote on Oct 31, 2007 12:11 PM:

" hey scott i know i will continue to provide you with my buisness. yall are relaxed and courteous. not once have i been in and out of the store without you or your employees thanking me for comming in. you have done a fine job with the place and i look forward to this friday! "

smokers den customer wrote on Oct 31, 2007 12:10 PM:

Sweet wrote on Oct 31, 2007 12:01 PM:

" I agree with Adolph Hitler! And to Penny: what do you think about the smokers den in bloomington~that has been there for some time now?? :) have we seen more or less ""up north.." Gangs, homicides, rampant poverty, overcrowded schools, overcrowded streets...."Up north" needs to stay up north.... since we have had the "smokers den" because it is the same thing they want to put in normal. perhaps you and other nasayers will be the laughing stock! LOL cause reading your post makes me laugh out loud. I agree with who ever said this was a blue haried rant!! LOL some ppl just love to B*TCH about anything they can or should I say ANYONE, depending on what subject is on the table?!?! LOL someone has your card! "

Long Time Resident wrote on Oct 31, 2007 11:47 AM:

" Last time I checked we were not ruled by Hu Jintao. If they are old enough, its a free country. Thats kind of the reason we fight wars.??? "

GET REAL wrote on Oct 31, 2007 11:47 AM:

" Get real people these are College kids you really think it going to be a Hookah bar ? Give it 6months and there be Cannabis coming out of the Hookah "

The Smoker's Den wrote on Oct 31, 2007 10:49 AM:

" Hello...my name is Scott Lynch and I am the owner of The Smoker's Den in Downtown Bloomington. I have owned and operated my business since March of 2005. By the way...all smoker's are welcome in my establishment. Contrary to this new hookah bar where cigarette and cigar smoke is not going to be allowed...what? I have operated the hookah aspect of my business for over 2 years now. We offer over 50 flavors and the cost is only $2.00 per person to smoke for an unlimited amount of time on Thurs, Fri, and Sat nights. We also offer a diverse atmoshere with live entertainment and a laid back atmoshphere. "

re: To: Ugh wrote on Oct 31, 2007 10:38 AM:

" Sorry, but I think I'll trust the Mayo Clinic more than some "college chemistry class" when it comes to research on whether a hookah removes carcinogens from tobacco. It does NOT. Read about it yourself on the mayoclinic website... just search for "hookah" and you'll find the info. Feel free to post info on where I can read about how safe hookah smoking is. I'm open to seeing research from legitimate sources. "

To: Cowboy wrote on Oct 31, 2007 10:26 AM:

" Remember, you don't have to patronize the place. It amazes me the number of people that seem to lack this kind of common sense. It won't be hurting or affecting you, so what's your problem? Sounds to me like you're someone who'll never be happy until the rest of the world agrees and practices your belief system. You're not perfect, after all, it was the cowboys that ran the Indians out of their homes! Ha ha......and the Dallas Cowboys, don't get me started on them......Seriously though, this isn't a way around a law. It's a retail tobacco store, and as such falls under exempt guidelines. Now, don't you worry about a thing, because I'm sure smokers that frequent this bar will have to pay just as much of the hypocritically high smoking tax as they would if they bought their smokes at a convenience store. So, you can worry a little less about everybody else and topics that don't concern you, and worry a little more about rounding up your herd. Good day to you sir. "

To: Ugh wrote on Oct 31, 2007 10:17 AM:

" I love it when people write in for the sole purpose of calling someone else an idiot, then makes so many factual, grammatical, and spelling errors in their own posts that would suggest, well, takes one to know one. By the way, it's d-u-m-b, NOT d-u-m-n. I LOVE the oxymorons!! Also, don't you worry your pretty, dumn(!) head about a thing. It's the smokers that pay the majority of the taxes that go to such funding. Also I learned in a college chemistry class that using the right kind of equipment and materials, and using a tobacco that's low in tar in nicotine like this bar will do, you can successfully rid the tobacco of most, if not all, carcinogens when pulling the smoke through the use of a water bong. If you want to complain about college students not spending their time wisely, then you'd have to protest bars serving alcoholic beverages as well. Judging from your belligerent post that reads as if you were slurring the words as you typed them, you would never, ever protest a place that provides you with your magic juice!! "

To: Suckups wrote on Oct 31, 2007 9:55 AM:

" Actually, I never knew such a business existed in downtown Bloomington. I would love to hear more about it, if you don't mind sharing. Thanks! I do agree that if we need such a business so badly that it is causing this kind of conflict on the comment boards, why aren't we already frequenting a place that is already here. Thank you in advance for your information. "

To: FYI wrote on Oct 31, 2007 9:53 AM:

" Did you not read the story? It's right in there, in the middle. A retail tobacco store is exempt from the ban. This means that if you non-smokers go in there - even knowing that it will be full of smoke - nobody is going to care whether you like or agree with it or not! Personally, I have never felt more free of judgmental, close-minded, smoker nazis in my entire life!! The day this business happens will be the best day, if only for the very reason that you can whine as loud as you want about the smoke, and the smokers are more then free to tell you where to go if you don't like it! Finally, there will be an establishment where smokers aren't looked at as if where are only there for the sole purpose of murdering their entire family. No matter the fact that it is pretty close to impossible to get cancer merely from sitting on the other side of the building from a smoker. Now, let's put THAT in our pipes and smoke it! "

To: I agree wrote on Oct 31, 2007 9:49 AM:

" And if you want Bloomington/Normal to be like rural Kentucky, then just move there. "

Cowboy wrote on Oct 31, 2007 9:49 AM:

" Boy oh boy....what a fine example of our hypocritical governmental system. You ban smoking in public places...such as bars and anywhere people congregate for health reasons. YET you allow smoking in a "retail" tobacco shop that is open to the public where people will congregate. Just a fine example of the two faced government officials we have elected. What about the second hand smoke and health hazards ideals that you people beat everyone in the heads with to push your smoking ban ? And now you welcome a smoking parlor ??? I think the mayor and the council of NO-Town Normal needs to stop and think about this. A LAW IS A LAW. I am not against new businesses but this is a very clever trick to get around the law. If this goes through....I think next election the hypocrites running AbbyNormal should not be re-elected. "

Won't be long wrote on Oct 31, 2007 9:40 AM:

" I'm sure there will be an emergency session to outlaw this. It'd be good PR for the council to distract from not doing anything else. "

Wendell wrote on Oct 31, 2007 9:35 AM:

" Please do not tell Maude, but when I was in the service a group of us visited a place much like this and I do not believe it was tobacco in the system. I assume there will be some kind of safeguard to ensure nothing illegal is introduced. As far as the business itself, it seems many people my age do nothing but complain about our youth and their lack of work ethic. I applaud these young people making a solid attempt to run a business and be productive. "

to dwighth wrote on Oct 31, 2007 9:28 AM:

" you probably own the houses that they live in, so why not back their venture...or you could get off the newspaper.com and get back to work on K4 instead of just hanging around for your pension... "

stupid! wrote on Oct 31, 2007 8:36 AM:

" Heaven forbid there isn't a place for the under 21 college students to hangout. They are in college, stay home and study and give your mom and dad their money's worth! What a stupid idea! It's still smoking..isn't it? BY THE WAY, WHO IS PAYING FOR THIS NEW VENTURE? "

DwightH wrote on Oct 31, 2007 8:26 AM:

" Well, interesting subject. At 53, I have a little cash put away. Retirement is looking good. Maybe I'll check this out and provide some "financing" an/or upstart capital for these enterprising young adults. could be a real money maker. I'll have to contact these guys. "

a reader wrote on Oct 31, 2007 8:07 AM:

" sounds like a pipe dream... business will probably go up in smoke "

T. CHONG wrote on Oct 31, 2007 7:44 AM:

" HEY MAN IS A HOOKAH LIKE A BONG MAN?? I KNEW THIS UPTOWN THING WAS GONNA BE SWEET. YUPPY IS OK UPTOWN I DON'T KNOW ABOUT HIPPY. THIS UPTOWN THING IS BRINGIN ME DOWN. I WAS GONNA GO UPTOWN BUT THEN I GOT HIGH LA LA LA "

re: otis wrote on Oct 31, 2007 7:16 AM:

" couldn't have said it better myself. "

TTI wrote on Oct 31, 2007 7:06 AM:

" Yeah, man…… We are gonna put some flavored tobaccy in the pipe, and smoke it through water, and this is totally safe and this would never ever be considered a gateway to putting the real stuff in the pipe, and kids need a safe place to hang out, and it’s because we need a safe place to hang,,,, man….. Unbelievable! "

I honestly thought: wrote on Oct 31, 2007 6:36 AM:

" Normal was trying to upscale the downtown area! The picture says it all. I don't care if it is done up north or not, this doesn't belong in our town. Kudos to the students for trying out their entrepreneurial skills, however this is not cool. It is only glamorizing tobacco, and imitating the act of smoking marijuana. I don't care if it is established as a retail store or not, it is still allowing smoking in a public establishment. The laws need to cover those loopholes. Bad Idea!!!!!!! "

To: ugh at 9:21 p.m. wrote on Oct 31, 2007 6:29 AM:

" With regard to the ISU Bowling and Billiards center; African Americans from Chicago have pretty much taken that place over. It isn't really safe for a light-skinned male or female student to be there. It sure seems that the ISU police department avoids that place as well. "

to:Penny wrote on Oct 31, 2007 6:27 AM:

" Your message was hilarious. It sounds like you haven't even left your house in years. There are many great places up north in Chicago and the suburbs that are great areas to live in. Many with much lower crime rates than Central IL. Or was this just another blue-haired rant? "

to B-Town Dem wrote on Oct 31, 2007 4:56 AM:

" Republicans about keeping government out of people's lives? Where have you been for the past 25 years ;) "

Kudos! wrote on Oct 31, 2007 4:02 AM:

" Good job guys! I would not hang out there, but I think it's great! In fact, I think that anyone that has the guts to open their own business, should be praised! I'm guessing that many of the people who criticize, have never been in their shoes! My husband and i left BN for this reason. Don't get me wrong, there are some wonderful people in this town that I love..but in the big scheme, BN is composed of alot of closed minded people, who would never take on a venture like this, or any other. When we opened our business, we were laughed at. We grew, and are very successful now. Most of the people who laughed, are still going to their 9-5 jobs, working for "the man".. making squat.. just surviving. News flash people. If you work for someone else... your fate lies in their hands. Work for yourself.. and you will find strength. that you never knew existed! You will also find self worth, and a feeling of accomplishment...even when you fail. At least you tried! May each of you come up with your own idea! "

Already in Bloomington wrote on Oct 31, 2007 3:29 AM:

" Sorry I'll keep my money in downtown Bloomington and go to the exsisting smokers den that has ALREADY been there-not at some "pipe" dream location. I would rather keep my dollars in a city that keeps their history alive, that does not try and make everything modern! "

Sad Day wrote on Oct 31, 2007 12:59 AM:

" I love this. Two enterprising young adults are taking on their own business venture. One in which the sole purpose is to smoke. In other words, if a person goes there, they go there with the express desire to smoke, and knowledge smoke will be there. Now everyone wants to not only question everything about the business, but the fact or fiction behind hookah smoking. People need to realize that just because they do not want something, it does not mean no one wants it. Diversity of thought is what made this country once great. Now people want to turn it into little Russia. "

otis wrote on Oct 31, 2007 12:55 AM:

" what a stupid business plan wont be in business 6 months "

DP Dough Ryan wrote on Oct 31, 2007 12:26 AM:

" As a business owner in Uptown Normal (opening January 2008), I love to see a long-vacant storefront put to use. It always struck me as a shame that a storefront on top of campus should sit idle for as long as 202 North Street did. Congratulations to these two guys for finding what could very well be the best and highest use for the space. I look forward to meeting them. "

in reply to: wrote on Oct 30, 2007 10:59 PM:

" To the few people commenting about the smoking ban, I would like to gently attract your attention to the part in the article that states "While smoking is banned from public places in Normal, this would be considered a retail tobacco store and such stores are exempt." I hope that serves as some small assistance to answer your inquiries. Also, I would like to say that while I will not be making use of the establishment in question I do wish the best of luck to its proprietors and I hope that those with an interest in such a venue enjoy it. "

Just me again... wrote on Oct 30, 2007 9:52 PM:

" Where are they getting the money for this? "

Cheech wrote on Oct 30, 2007 9:51 PM:

" Just curious, do you think you are going to lose money from people who are wanting to SMOKE? "

ugh wrote on Oct 30, 2007 9:21 PM:

" this is just dumn. it's fine if they want to open this place, but i sure as heck hope that none of our tax dollars are being used to get this place open. i would rather facade grants, incentives, or any other tools we have for economic development be used on worth while endevours that contribute to our community. i would really like the see the scientific evidence to support that water removes the carcinogens from the smoke. can we find a more positive way to allow under 21 year old students to congregate? oh wait...isn't ISU building a new athletic center? don't we have a student union on campus? is there not the bowling and billards center? is there not campus social organizations, greek life, IM sports, basketball/football/volleyball games, parks, restaraunts, stores, open space, picnic tables.....i can see how there is really no place for students to hang out at besides a smoking bar. the sooner this place is out of our town the better off we are. "

B-town Dem wrote on Oct 30, 2007 8:56 PM:

" What is wrong with this? What's this I hear? I thought the republicans were all about letting the consumer do the voting and keeping government regulation out of people's lives. I think that this harmless, no one is getting intoxicated and driving. Let them have their chance. They also have Nordstrom, IMAX and flavored popcorn stores up north, which one is causing the gang violence I wonder? "

seesr wrote on Oct 30, 2007 8:50 PM:

" just give it a chance, if you don't want to go, there's always the coliseum to spend your money. "

Learning Alot wrote on Oct 30, 2007 8:28 PM:

" I'll bet these two students will learn more about business in getting this venture going than they would in 4 years in the classroom. It's a real life business, not some fantasy business they dreamed up on paper for college credit. They probably have learned about zoning restrictions, accounting, taxes, marketing, etc. to get this shop up and going. Whether they end up learning about wealth accumulation or bankruptcy, I wish them luck and congratulate them for having the guts to try something new. "

Hoot wrote on Oct 30, 2007 8:06 PM:

" This is an absolute outrage. This kind of nonsense...in the middle of "Uptown Normal"? I urge the Normal ( and ab-Normal) civic leaders and other assorted "health busybodies" to quash this abomination. These kids will become addicted to nicotine and go out and buy cigarettes. The taxes will then fund the SCHIP program (Wait, that's a good thing). Ok, they will throw their ugly butts on the streets and blow billowing clouds of murderous second hand smoke into Al Gore's atmosphere. Stop it...stop it...stop it. Let's do it for the children, dogs squirrels and all that is good and just in the universe. "

Penny wrote on Oct 30, 2007 7:49 PM:

" While it may thrive "up north," look at the mess there is "up north.." Gangs, homicides, rampant poverty, overcrowded schools, overcrowded streets...."Up north" needs to stay up north....This will be a laughing stock... "

suckups wrote on Oct 30, 2007 7:29 PM:

" why go to your shop when the smokers den in downtown bloomington was the first and best place for this. plus the owner scott is from are area,not visiting students that will wisk away all our hard earned dollars!! "

Adolph Hitler wrote on Oct 30, 2007 7:11 PM:

" Mein rezidents! Vat are you doing to yourselves. The Fuhrer must put a stop to anything that is not in line with mein Health Department regulations. Bring in the goot Dr. Mengele to put der stop to it. Stamp out the freedom of youthful joy and live in mindless obedience to me and the regulations of my henchman Blogogogogvishy "

People pay attention! wrote on Oct 30, 2007 7:02 PM:

" You can go online a read the smoking ban ,it states that these type of establishments are exempt from the ban,even the state ban says so! "

aww JD wrote on Oct 30, 2007 6:27 PM:

" could you give it a rest for once? And that I am a non-smoker thing doesn't work anymore...1 or 2 packs a day? "

To: To I agree wrote on Oct 30, 2007 6:18 PM:

" Unfortunately, that logic does not hold true for the residents of Illinois. They expect ever business to cater to them. Some idiot will want to go into the lounge, and whine and cry there is smoke there. Of course there is smoke there, they allow smoking, but that idiot will fail to understand that they choose to go into the lounge in the first place. That is how the smoking ban in Illinois got passed. The politicians needed to protect those 'geniuses' that were not smart enough to not go into smoking establishments. I swear, the majority of Illinois residents have no branches on their family trees. "

FYI wrote on Oct 30, 2007 6:13 PM:

" What about the smoking ban? Surely that's indoor smoking...water pipe or not "

Shisha wrote on Oct 30, 2007 6:01 PM:

" In Egypt, at Egyptian establishments, you can get a shisha with aromatic tobacco and socialize with friends. We were at the Aswan Moon on the Nile in Aswan eating Nile fish for dinner. Other patrons had finished their meals and called for the shisha. Since the restaurant was open air, the smoke was sweet and not too objectionable for this nonsmoker. We did not smoke shisha but we enjoyed having Egyptians around and conversing softly in a social occasion. I'm not sure this place will be the same as the smoke will probably be overwhelming. VooDoo Science is right, though, the water does NOT strain out the carcinogens. "

big unit wrote on Oct 30, 2007 5:44 PM:

" How long until Mary Jane is legalized, sooner or later its gonna happen! "

To: "I agree" wrote on Oct 30, 2007 5:25 PM:

" "fad" ? Let me guess you have never been out of the country? I don't mean that to say anything bad, but this is not a fad. In fact, its part of everyday life in other countries, cultures. Welcome to global times "

48 AND A NON SMOKER wrote on Oct 30, 2007 5:15 PM:

" but the last thing i smoked leagal was a pipe and i enjoyed the flavour.and ive been thinking of taking it up agian .but i will have to give the smokers den a try in the hooka dept and try that .and yes even this new place .and i think it should go over real well.great idea guys "

To: I agree wrote on Oct 30, 2007 4:59 PM:

" Personally, I'm willing to bet you ARE Iron Woman. Either way you, or both of you, need to realize that if you don't like the idea, then you don't have to patronize the place. Just because you don't like it doesn't mean the rest of us won't. I'm not a Chicago transplant, but hearing the way you people feel about things like this, I'm a little embarrassed to be from the same city you are. I just would never want to be grouped with such close-minded, stuck up Repubs - who always have the nerve to think that nothing new is allowed in THEIR town. Guess what? It's my town too, and I will choose to patronize this place. It's about time we got a new business in town that's not some stuck-up restaurant (or yet another movie theater we don't need). Good day to you, and I sure hope you will someday realize what a sad life it is to lead when you never, ever, allow yourself or others to try something new and see what the rest of the world is like. "

JD wrote on Oct 30, 2007 4:58 PM:

" Anyone want to bet on how long it will take a non-smoker to walk into the hookah lounge, and then whine to the government about the smoke they were exposed too? "

To: Ironwoman wrote on Oct 30, 2007 4:53 PM:

" I get it, you are one of those people who are afraid of change. Perhaps we AREN'T as conservative as YOU like to think! Not everybody here belongs in the Republican party, especially me. As for "catering" to Chicagoans, you are nuts! There are plenty of people down here that would really like an establishment like this - and isn't catering to their customers what businesses do? Besides, it doesn't hurt you any, so if you don't like it you are free to attend one of those nice, stick-up-the-butt places you conservatives like to frequent so much. "

d. evil doesn't agree with Ironwoman wrote on Oct 30, 2007 4:48 PM:

" yowch. so little faith in our surroundings. while we have a large percentage of factory workers, farmhands, maintenance ninjas and teachers in our midsts, we also have a decent population of things like artists, musicians, and the 15,000 or so college students who all moved into downtown Normal a few weeks ago. so personally? i'm kinda offended, you know? i'm one of those aforementioned maintenance folks (i play on the arts side of the field too) and i have to tell you... having met a lot of people on both sides of the 'state farm' versus 'real farm' fence? i know a lot more people in the 'smalltown' profession category who would use these services over those here for the 'grand corporate mechanism' or the 'Transplant Chicago' project. so maybe, just maybe smalltown America is a little less conservative these days than one would think? i could be wrong. "

Chong wrote on Oct 30, 2007 4:43 PM:

" Dave's not here, man! "

I agree wrote on Oct 30, 2007 4:34 PM:

" with Ironwoman. If you want BN to be so much like Chicago, just move to Chicago. Leave our town out of all the new, ridiculous fads that barely catch on. Enough is enough. "

d. evil wrote on Oct 30, 2007 4:33 PM:

" as a concept, it'll work. the Smoker's Den already offers this as a service, and the Den does rather decently for itself. however - two things... the first? the Den offers the choice to purchase and use regular tobacco products too - the ISHookah shop won't - and the second? heh... 'how long will it take for someone to throw something else in the pipe?' = 'not very long' when we're talking about a shop *on campus* ... so yeah - while it sounds neat and it'll probably see some use, it's viability as a business is definitely going to be affected by the other two factors. and finally - i'm just saying here - bongs hit sooo much better, so why would you want a hookah at all? "

Ironwoman wrote on Oct 30, 2007 4:02 PM:

" This spells out future trouble and conflict. We are more conservative here than we think. Why do we feel the need to pretend we are a Chicago suburb? We are not. Look around. We are a town of educators, farmers, and factory workers. He we are catering to our displaced Chicagoans and State Farmers. It makes me want to puke. "

dwarf wrote on Oct 30, 2007 3:48 PM:

" I used to hang out at the place in downtown Bloomington quite a bit. There's definitely a market for this. I don't smoke cigars or cigarettes, but hookah smoke is pretty darn nice. "

Fence sitter wrote on Oct 30, 2007 3:35 PM:

" I don't believe that this is something that everyone would like (I don't like it, but hey whatever) or even that this is a business that a lot of people would frequent, but there is a large international following for the use of the hookah. Maybe this would be a business that would influence international students' decisions to attend the BN colleges. "

Why oh Why wrote on Oct 30, 2007 3:32 PM:

" does the pantagraph even write about this stuff???? I was thinking of opening a scritcher bar in town. YOu know, where weirdos come together and socialize wearing furry animal suits. Why doesn't the pantagraph write up a story about that?? Of course that is just as outrageous and unbelieveable as this little venture. C'mon.. this isn't going to happen. Its a failed business model and the town will not support it. The interest in this place just peaked with this article. Nothing left from to bury the idea. "

right wrote on Oct 30, 2007 3:18 PM:

" Just another example of where our world is heading. And it is not up. "

"studies" wrote on Oct 30, 2007 3:15 PM:

" I'm not sure about the studies that have been mentioned but I used to be a casual smoker back in college and I never got any kind of nicotine buzz from a hookah like I did from cigarettes. In fact, other than the rich flavors I never felt anything from them, while throw me a quick cigarette and I got a quick, easy buzz. "

May I suggest wrote on Oct 30, 2007 3:12 PM:

" a bring your own bong night???? "

Thought They Were wrote on Oct 30, 2007 2:47 PM:

" Outlawing smoking in all establishments at the first of the year? "

smoker's den wrote on Oct 30, 2007 2:28 PM:

" The smoker's den already offers this so it isn't like this is anything new to the area either. "

hookahsmokingcaterpillar wrote on Oct 30, 2007 2:27 PM:

" if it keeps the brats away from me I am all for it as long as AlGore approves and the proper carbon credits are purchased...... "

good idea wrote on Oct 30, 2007 2:23 PM:

" Maybe they can get Prez Al to take the inaugural toke! "

to silly wrote on Oct 30, 2007 2:22 PM:

" I think it's a good idea and hopefully will be a fun spot for young adults 18 and over to hang out. Also close to campus which is a plus and live music always draws a crowd. And to the ignorant that called this hippie stuff get out of Bloomington Normal and learn about culture. They have places like this all over the world for all different cultures. Good luck to these two guys and their new business. "

Hookah in CU wrote on Oct 30, 2007 2:16 PM:

" There are at least two hookah bars in Champaign that limp along "

Chi town kids wrote on Oct 30, 2007 2:12 PM:

" glad mommy and daddy give the kids anything they want. Here you go, have some money to open up a hookah lounge. All my parents gave me was lunch money. sounds like some spoiled kids looking for trouble. "

Smoke Free Illinois? wrote on Oct 30, 2007 2:10 PM:

" It's only a matter of time before all public places are non-smoking. I can't see this lasting very long. But good luck in your venture guys, you're gonna need it. "

BN ignorance wrote on Oct 30, 2007 2:08 PM:

" I live on the east coast, formerly B-N born and raised, and there are many places to smoke shisha. They are a great place to get away from the normal (no pun intended) scene. Of course, there are drug users with their jokes and those who will bash any new venture that is not a chain restuarant, but how about giving it a chance once it opens. I was skeptical at first, but now enjoy relaxing at these establishments. "

Bobtail Nag wrote on Oct 30, 2007 2:07 PM:

" How long before the anti-smoking nannies will complain that they are engulfed in and offended by all the smoke when they start frequenting the place? "

smoker wrote on Oct 30, 2007 2:04 PM:

" I'm a cigarette smoker, so I'm not one to criticize others about the hazards of smoking. However, the idea that the hookah filters out the dangerous chemicals in the tobacco is a myth. Research shows that, on average, hookah smokers ingest significantly more nicotine per session than if they'd been smoking cigarettes for the same amount of time. I'm all for giving people the freedom to do it, but anyone who says it is "safe" is misinformed. "

Good To See... wrote on Oct 30, 2007 2:03 PM:

" Fresh ideas and ambitous young people willing to take them on. I hope it works out for you and please don't listen to all the naysayers. People in this town will ALWAYS find something to criticize because they are unhappy and jealous that they don't have anything better to do than sit in front of a computer and complain. Best of luck to you in your endeavors!! "

Jeff wrote on Oct 30, 2007 2:02 PM:

" to Otis..I dunno...every year a fresh crop of students that will see the novelty of it. Then when the novelty wears off, next year, new students..shrug..waste of space in my opinion though "

21 year old wrote on Oct 30, 2007 2:01 PM:

" sounds like a good idea to me, must be all the old people that dont like change that think it is a bad idea "

To: Voodoo Science wrote on Oct 30, 2007 1:58 PM:

" I agree with you. I would like to see the studies as well. Probably several years from now, we will find out the answer. "

To: Silly wrote on Oct 30, 2007 1:58 PM:

" I bet your parents said the same thing about Mother Murphy's 30 years ago. "

or maybe not.. wrote on Oct 30, 2007 1:55 PM:

" Maybe they won't last at all. Allowing certain smoking but not all smoking. "

TO: OTIS and VOO DOO wrote on Oct 30, 2007 1:54 PM:

" Love to see the naysayers come out of the woodwork anytime someone has a new idea for this town. However on your predictions that they won't last 6 mos or won't find local cash, I divert your attention to SMOKERS DEN in Bloomington. It's a Hooka bar and has been in business for over a year and in fact is doing quite well. Wish we could say the same of business' where smoking was banned. "

Costanza wrote on Oct 30, 2007 1:53 PM:

" the claim that "water filters the smoke" has been proven to be false. Too bad the young owner is perpetuating this myth. I'm not against a hookah lounge, but people need to know the real deal... that's all. "

? wrote on Oct 30, 2007 1:51 PM:

" Where do two college students get the money to support a venture like this? "

duuuude wrote on Oct 30, 2007 1:48 PM:

" we need a hookah bar man.. we NEED it! dude put on that hendrix bootleg.. "

DUDE wrote on Oct 30, 2007 1:48 PM:

" I need some Funions... "

Ganza wrote on Oct 30, 2007 1:47 PM:

" Right on, I'd like there to be a place like this in Normal. There's a lounge in Downtown Bloomington that I like going to, so I'd like to see what this one has to offer, too. "

The Irascible Fachna wrote on Oct 30, 2007 1:44 PM:

" Why not hashish, or opium? Burning neither exudes the foul and deadly miasma of :::GASP!::: cigarettes. "

otis wrote on Oct 30, 2007 1:39 PM:

" wont be in business 6 months what a stupid venture "

So?? wrote on Oct 30, 2007 1:30 PM:

" What is smoked in that joint stays in that joint? "

silly wrote on Oct 30, 2007 1:28 PM:

" Sounds like a bunch of hippy crap to me "

Voo doo science wrote on Oct 30, 2007 1:27 PM:

" I want to see some proof to his claims that "the water washes out all the carcinogens." . This is smoking. Sounds like somebody else is looking to learn that Chicago and Bloomington have very different attitudes. Good luck finding local cash for this. "

to pitdogg wrote on Oct 30, 2007 1:23 PM:

" I like that thought..... I wondered that myself. "

pitdogg wrote on Oct 30, 2007 1:04 PM:

" can we bring our own fruity flavored stuff..... "

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