CINCINNATI -  Cincinnatians everywhere are making preparations this week for the statewide smoking ban that takes effect this Friday. 

Citywide sales of Kodiak, Red Man, and Skoal smokeless tobacco have skyrocketed in preparation for the ban, and local media has stepped in to help citizens fill the nicotine void.  Local 9 News did a feature story, "The Ins and Outs of Snuff: What is it and how can it help you?",  while The Enquirer had a human interest story Monday on "Chaw Etiquette".

One anonymous bar owner was found investing in cheap patio furniture and tiki torches for a "patio" that was once a humble back-alley vomitorium.

Local businesses without patio space are providing safe alternatives to cigarettes. Norwood bowling alley Stones Lanes will sponsor an "Oral Fixation Tournament" with free lollipops and tootsie rolls to all participants, while Northside pub The Comet plans to give out a free nicotine patch with every burrito sold.