Longs becoming part of your smoke-free day

Smokers, if you’ve gotten into the habit of dashing into Longs for a pack of smokes, it’s time to kick the habit.

Longs is no longer selling cigarettes and other tobacco products, a changeover that started Wednesday, a month ahead of the previously announced Oct. 1 halt. It’s all part of a nationwide initiative that Longs’ parent company, CVS Health, has launched to rebrand and refocus its business strategy as a provider of basic health services.

Going down a quick checklist: No cigarettes — check. Reliable pharmacies — check. Some Minute Clinics — check. As for liquor? Well, as long as red wine continues to be good for the heart — check.

Don’t be discouraged — get your Warriors tickets

It seems like lots of folks had the same idea simultaneously: Let’s go to the University of Hawaii football game! Long lines at the Aloha Stadium ticket booth reflected that late flood of walk-up customers.

But rather than letting the logjam keep them from future games, these newfound fans should try again. Stadium officials are working with Honolulu police to alleviate some of the traffic and parking issues. Saturday’s game against Oregon State kicks off at 4:30 p.m. Buy your tickets online and get out to the stadium early.