On Dec. 10, Corpus Christi enacted a full ban on smoking in bars and all public gathering places. How long before San Antonio follows Corpus and many other major cities in Texas and throughout the country?

At Chango’s Havana Club, commonly referred to as a “cigar bar,” the owners have decided to limit smoking to the patio only starting Jan. 1.

“A smoking ban in San Antonio bars is inevitable” says Chango’s partner Jimi Ellis. “We have noticed a trend towards enjoying live music, dancing and socializing and away from a smoking environment.”

Chango’s initially was designed to be a jazz and cigar lounge, but quickly morphed into one of the most popular live music venues in San Antonio.

“We allowed the patrons to determine the direction Chango’s would follow,” Ellis says. “Just as our customers dictated we become a live music and dance venue, they are also responsible for our move towards non-smoking.”

It’s no secret that many women enjoying an evening out prefer not to go home reeking of smoke.

“I think it’s safe to say that the change to non-smoking, notwithstanding any plans the city may have, came as a result of complaints by female patrons who wanted to enjoy a smokeless night out,” Ellis says.

Currently in San Antonio the majority of bars and clubs are non-smoking by choice. Clubs like Chango’s are fortunate to have an outdoor patio where patrons who smoke have an area to enjoy a cigarette or cigar. Chango’s has a 500-square-foot fully stocked humidor and has been selling a consistent quantity of cigars for more than four years.

Ellis says Chango’s will continue with its thriving cigar sales, as patrons can enjoy them on the patio. Chango’s has an outdoor covered stage where bands typically play on Fridays and Saturdays. There also is a full out-door bar and seating for 100 or more people.

Meanwhile, Austin enacted its total smoking ban in 2005, Houston in 2007 and Dallas in May 2009. Will San Antonio be next, and, if so, when?

“Those questions I do not know the answers to,” says Ellis, “but I feel certain it’s inevitable.”

San Antonio initiated a smoking ordinance in January 2004. Primarily aimed at restaurants, it allowed some loopholes which to this day have not been closed. The loopholes, which allow restaurants to designate smoking areas without fully enclosing them have done nothing but create an air of ambiguity.

The current restrictions could make one wonder when or if San Antonio will follow other major Texas cities on this issue. Where Houston, Dallas, Austin and Corpus have led, will San Antonio follow?