WEDNESDAY MARCH 21, 2012 IS NATIONAL KICK BUTTS DAY

Stand Up, Speak Up, and Seize Control over Tobacco

(Salisbury, MD) - National Kick Butts Day is a day of tobacco prevention where youth all across the country are encouraged to stand up, speak up, and seize control over tobacco. “This will be the 17th year we celebrate this event, and thousands of events will be held throughout the country,” said Jennifer Johnson, Tobacco Coordinator at the Wicomico County Health Department. “Teachers, parents, youth group leaders and friends can all help as we stand up in the fight against tobacco by educating our youth on the dangers of cigarette smoke and tobacco.”

Wicomico County has a youth tobacco coalition consisting of teens who live an alcohol, tobacco and drug free life, and are working to encourage others to do the same. “These youth act as positive role models to demonstrate healthy bodies and healthy lifestyles,” said Mrs. Johnson. Teens interested in spreading a positive message in the community by becoming a part of the coalition may contact Tanya Selby or Jennifer Johnson at (410) 334 – 3480.

“If you are a parent who is a smoker, set a good example for your children and let them know that you are making an effort to quit,” said Mrs. Johnson. Free cessation classes are offered at the Wicomico County Health Department at 108 E. Main St. every Thursday at 12 pm. Additional stop smoking resources are available at www.smokingstopshere.com or 1 (800) QUIT-NOW.