Clean air a civic responsibility

Published 6:22 am Monday, November 15, 2004

By Staff
As a member of the Escambia County Tobacco Coalition, we wish to request support for a smoke-free ordinance to insure cleaner air, healthier environments and fewer health problems for all citizens.
W.S. Neal Middle School has organized 32 students who will canvas all communities to get signatures to support smoke-free restaurants and cleaner indoor air laws for Escambia County. These students have spoken their convictions to the East Brewton and Brewton City Councils. We applaud the response of the councils to support and discuss agendas on behalf of public health.
It is a known fact that over 65,000 Americans die each year from health complications of heart disease, stroke, respiratory problems and cancers relating to tobacco carcinogens. We all acknowledge the struggles of any drug addiction. But strongly urge each individual who smokes to join our efforts for the Great American Smoke-Out Nov. 18 and hopefully conquer their addiction.
Our schools teach and equip youth to make right choices. They are practicing skills to safeguard their health for life. Many carry heavy hearts as family members battle or are lost to diseases or cancer related to tobacco.
The torch has now become ours to pass on to them our best air and cleanest neighborhoods to insure their playing, working and living in East Brewton and Brewton for years to come. Thank you as we all unite to insure all a civic right.
Carolyn Brown
Counselor
W.S. Neal Middle School