Cigar bar tries to open next to American Cancer Society
SOUTHFIELD, Mich. (WJBK) - A cigar bar was set open in Southfield but the business would have been located right next to the American Cancer Society.
It looks like those opposed to the plan were successful in smoking the business out.
"I think we're just really glad this is something we don't have to worry about and don't have to worry about the risk of exposure," said Kelly Kaschimer of the ACS,
The smoke has cleared before it ever really began
The Cigar Fraternity planned on opening a cigar lounge inside Arbor Lofts in Southfield--- much to the chagrin of its neighbor----the American Cancer Society.
"I was absolutely horrified by the thought of a tobacco company, a cigar shop going up next to the American Cancer Society," said Kaschimer.
Kaschimer is an ACS employee and two-time cancer survivor.
"I was diagnosed with Lymphoma five years ago and oral cancer a year ago," she said.
She says she never smoked a day in her life. Her only known risk factor was second-hand exposure to carcinogens.
She planned on speaking out against the re-zoning request that would've allowed the stogie shop to open up, only to learn the request was pulled from the agenda before the meeting.
Here are her thoughts on the Cigar Frat's original plans and location for their lounge.
"I have a feeling they probably didn't think about it before their initial proposal," said Kaschimer.
FOX 2: "One could only hope right?"
"I would hope not, yes," she said.
Todd Faison, the owner of Cigar Fraternity, says Arbor Lofts withdrew the re-zoning request because they could not agree on leasing terms.
He also says he planned on going above and beyond state requirements to make sure no one was affected by the smoke in their lounge.
That would include special ventilation systems, three smoke heaters when he says only one was required and making sure the walls were sealed tight to keep the smoke in the lounge.
Faison is planning to open a lounge in the area but not in that location.