The Ypsilanti Courier
A Heritage Newspaper
Weekly Publication
Local coffeehouse goes smoke free
By Christine Laughren, Staff Writer
PUBLISHED: April 24, 2008
The Ugly Mug in Ypsilanti has gotten a makeover.
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Along with new floors, tables, chairs and a fresh coat of paint, the coffee shop went smoke free Monday.
Jim Johnson, co-owner of The Ugly Mug said he and his wife, Melody Rye, have wanted to make improvements and go smoke free for a while.
Johnson said he was looking to create a healthy atmosphere for non-smokers who come to the shop as well as draw in customers who did not visit because of the smoke.
"I think everybody is ready for it," Rye said of the smoke free change. "Even our smokers have commented they don't like smelling like smoke when they leave."
However, Johnson, who also likes to have an occasional cigarette, has not forgotten his loyal smoking customers.
The Ugly Mug has vamped up its outdoor seating section as well, where smokers are welcome to relax.
New canopies on the patio provide shelter from the sun and the rain and outdoor heaters will provide a little warmth when the weather gets chilly.
Those who did smoke at The Ugly Mug enjoyed their last day of smoking in the cafe Sunday.
Patrick Miller said he is not going to miss being able to have a cigarette in the shop. He also said he thinks the change will draw more customers.
"I think it's a smart business move," Miller said.
Robin Linkowski said she does not mind the change either.
"As long as all my friends still come here I don't mind," Linkowski said.
However, Kelly Labowitch, of Plymouth, said she sometimes makes a special trip to The Ugly Mug to sit, relax, drink coffee and smoke a cigarette.
"I'm not sure I will come here as often," Labowitch said.
Although The Mug looks a little more streamlined without the movie theatre-style seating and the hodgepodge of furniture, Rye said shop would still offer the unique experience regulars have come to enjoy.
Several businesses in the area have also gone smoke free in the past couple years.
Sidetrack Bar and Grill just recently became a non-smoking restaurant during their peak lunch and dinner hours.
Owner Linda French said customers could still smoke indoors after 10 p.m. She also said anybody is welcome to smoke on the patios at Sidetrack any time of day.
French said she hopes the entire state will eventually go smoke-free.
"I think it's going to be the wave of the future," she said. Contact Staff Writer Christine Laughren at 697-8255 or at claughren@heritage.com
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