Jump to full article: Tucson (AZ) Citizen, 2008-08-16
Author: ANNE T. DENOGEAN Tucson Citizen
Intro: The Navajo Nation recently came close to doing the right thing and beginning a smoking ban in all public areas, including its future casinos.
It was close, but no cigar, as concern for casino profits took precedence over tribal health, as has been true with nearly every tribe that enters into the gaming business.
Apparently, they've learned too well the ways of the white man, who also refuses to let customer or worker health concerns stand in the way of maximizing profits in his smoke-filled casinos. . . .
The doors, walls and slot machines require less cleaning. And the casino never has to buy ashtrays or matches.
As someone who has enjoyed concerts, dining, dancing and gambling at all four Tucson-area casinos, I've always thought the tribes were doing a disservice to their customers and their employees, many of whom are Native Americans, by allowing smoking.
What's sad about it is they don't have to sacrifice people for profit. The Taos Mountain experience proves that a smoke-free casino can have both healthy profits and healthy people.
Anne T. Denogean can be reached at 573-4582 and
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