RTP-area local music and culture

["charlie st.clair" <nightlightbooking AT gmail.com>]

We implemented a no smoking policy at Nightlight last October and received
what was essentially 100% approval. Some people (who apparently never go
out) still think we are a smoky joint. Most of the people, however, really,
really appreciate the cleaner air indoors, especially when its 3:00 in the
morning and everyone can still dance and have a good time without feeling
like you are in some kind of poisonous, noxious chamber which is sucking
your life energy. Our employees appreciate the cleaner air and report having
an easier time waking up and moving around the morning after a show.

Perhaps only three or four people have ever made a negative comment to me
when I tell them there is no smoking inside, but they still put out their
smoke. I think one person made a sarcastic comment about this being North
Carolina, which I guess was a sideways attempt to invoke our state's rich
heritage as a beacon for self-destructive behavior. I know I feel the legacy
of thousands of winstons, salems, camels, dorals, and other fine brands
coursing through my veins everytime I take a puff of my favorite brand, but
I still actually prefer to smoke out-of-doors. I like smoking allright, as
far as habits goes it's an allright one. But I prefer to not breathe
everyone else's cigarette in addition to my own.

Amazingly, when a band starts, people light up habitually. When they get a
new beer, they light up habitually. When they exit the bathroom, they light
up habitually. When they see someone else smoking, they light up habitually.
Having cleaner air indoors may have actually HELPED business at the
Nightlight, believe it or not. Between starting shows earlier on weeknights
and becoming no smoking, we're recognizing the pervasive sentiment that many
more people would come out to shows during the week if the clubs made it
easier on the patrons.

-Charlie