Yes, yes, agreed with all your comments.

On the "safety" issues, my recommendation is to get a 2nd opinion from a
fireplace expert.


But, I suspect the smoke still may be the result of your chimney flue not
being fully warmed yet. Until the flue is fully warmed, it will not draw
efficiently, and may smoke. I am **very** doubtful that burning the
newspapers would be enough to warm the flue enough for a good draft.

You might want to try this: Light a fire........... if it starts smoking,
try to open a window (or door) near the fireplace, to allow for more air
filtration. The smoke should go away as soon as the fireplace is fed
enough oxygen. After about 5-10 minutes of a strong burn, close the door or
window. You may have to experiment with the times , and how much to open
the window, but I think that if you will allow your flue to fully warm,
your smoke problem may just go up in smoke........... hee hee heee heeee..

Good Luck, and let us know !!!!


--James---