W.Va. Teens re-Energize their Tobacco Fight

Source from:  newstribune.info Friday, August 24, 2007 08/27/2007

For some teens, summer vacation kicks off three months of idle pleasures and mindless, sunny days. However, for approximately 200 students across West Virginia, it launched Raze On 2007 at the University of Charleston, June 10-12. This annual event recapped the movement's school year and enlivened the students' resolve to fight tobacco in the coming school year. Local students from Keyser High School under the leadership of faculty member, Trina Melody, attended the event to represent RESA VIII. Those students were Wayne Roberts, Dustin Kimble, Kirstin Custer, and Gabrielle Bartlett. Raze is the West Virginia, teen-led anti-tobacco movement. During the event, students learned team building activities and presentation skills. Members also heard from tobacco prevention advocates and elected new youth leaders. This year's Raze On speakers included David Goerlitz, a former model for Winston cigarettes until smoking caused him to have a minor stroke. He now speaks all over the world about the dangers of tobacco use. In keeping with this year's international theme, Clinical Instructor Chris Bostic from the University of Maryland School of Law discussed tobacco's global impact. Bostic enlightened the students on how they can be instrumental in fighting tobacco internationally. Although the youth take their anti-tobacco cause seriously, Raze On 2007 is also laced with many fun activities for the students as well. The event consisted of a teen dance, video games and fun competitions. "Raze has made a positive impact within West Virginia in regards to fighting tobacco use," said Donna Kuhn, RESA VIII Tobacco Prevention Specialist. "However, it's important that we keep our youth motivated and excited about the movement. Tobacco companies will spend millions this year marketing to West Virginia teens specifically. We have to make sure our voices are being heard as loud as the big tobacco companies," Kuhn added. Enditem