Kickin' Butts: Poster Contest Shows Dangers of Tobacco Use

Source from:  demopolistimes.com Tuesday, April 15, 2008 04/17/2008

Special to the Times In recognition of Kick Butts Day on April 2, sixth-grade students at Demopolis Middle School had a chance to "kick butts" during a poster contest demonstrating the dangers of tobacco use. The students joined thousands across the country who were taking part in Kick Butts Day, a nationwide initiative that makes kids leaders in the effort to stop youth tobacco use. Two sixth-grade classes participated in the contest sponsored by the Marengo County Smoke-Free Coalition. The winning posters were chosen from more than 50 entries. Students were asked to design their poster based on one of the three categories: "Why I won't start smoking," "What smoking does to the body" and "How smoking affects others." Posters were judged on artistry, creativity, originality and theme. The three first-place winners received a $50 gift certificate from Game Stop. Winners were Charlie Parten in Addy Card's class and Alicia Pickens and Gabby Lay in Deborah Brown's class. "The sixth grade students at Demopolis Middle School have been participating in a substance abuse prevention program called Life Skills," said Loretta Wilson, Life Skills instructor. The program is proven to help students develop essential skills to significantly reduce violence, drug abuse, tobacco and alcohol use. "Our children are smart; they ask all the right questions in class," she said. Parents can help their children avoid the initial use of tobacco by not allowing people to smoke in their homes and talking to their kids about the dangers of smoking, she said. "Research shows children are being introduced to smoking at earlier ages," said Niko Phillips, public health tobacco coordinator. "Kids are exposed daily to tobacco advertisements, movies and celebrities, all portraying a false image of coolness. If we educate them today, they will be prepared tomorrow." Posters will be showcased at Bryan W. Whitfield Memorial Hospital during the month of April. Enditem