In Honor
This community recognition award goes to Mr. Jim Schumacher, owner
of Albuquerque's Scarpas restaurant. Scarpas is know for its delicious
brick-oven pizza, gourmet salads and superb italian pasta. Mr. Schumacher
also owns Seagull Street and the Cooperage. While the other two restaurants
contain small smoking sections, Schumacher decided to keep Scarpas 100%
smoke-free.
Jim told us that the decision to go completely smoke-free was
a "no-brainer" for this establishment. In part, Scarpas is much smaller than the other two
restaurants. It would have been difficult to separate smokers and nonsmokers. Scarpas is
also designed as a dining-only facility. While patrons may order from a fine selection of wines and beer, Scarpas does
not have a full bar. The Cooperage, on the other hand, frequently has live entertainment and
bands. Seagull Street also provides for a more entertainment-filled environment.
When asked about the issue of smoke-free, Jim states that he is
occasionally criticized for his position. He adds that these complaints mean "nothing" to him. The
decision just makes good business sense.
Jim has found that some prospective diners learn about
the no-smoking policy and leave, but this happens only rarely. He believes he receives more compliments from
nonsmokers. In addition he does receive an occasional call from individuals looking for smoke-free environments because
they have severe allergies or other respiratory problems. In general, the smoking issue is not a concern either
way.
The new America thanks you Jim!
NOTE: Jim Schumacher originally attended college on a football
scholarship and is presently an avid runner. He has two daughters currently
competing in college track and field programs. Kelly is a sophomore at Colorado State. She
made it to nationals this year with her cross country team.
Dana is a junior at UNM. She has made the transition from a top-notch sprinter to a long
distance runner. Jim told us that Dana worked to save enough money to hire a distance coach to
help her make the transition. What dedication! We wish the best of luck to all three athletes.
Scarpas is located at 5500 Academy Rd. NE and their phone is 505.821.1885
The Tomato Cafe Story
