The superintendent of the Jones County School District signed a proclamation in support of the Great American Smokeout during a ceremony at West Jones Middle School Thursday.
In doing so, Dr. Steve Thrash urged “all students, faculty and staff of the Jones County School District to show we are united in taking this positive action to a more promising, healthy future.”
Thrash noted that although the school district is already “tobacco-free,” the proclamation is a way of showing support of the American Cancer Society’s 34th Great American Smokeout. The American Cancer Society (ACS) declared November 19th as the day to remind smokers that quit smoking is “one of the most important steps in creating a world with less cancer and more birthdays.”
According to ACS, one-third of cancer deaths could be prevented if people avoided tobacco products. The organization also stressed that “the good news is that smokers who quit can stay well and add up to eight years onto their lives.
West Jones’ proclamation was sponsored by members of the school’s Peer Council, headed by West Jones teacher Cindy Williamson. “This means a lot to the kids,” she said. “They put out posters declaring the day as American Smokeout to remind students of the dangers of smoking.”
Eighth grader Tyler Harden, president of the Peer Council, said the Great American Smokeout is of great interest to her. That’s why she was excited about being asked to read the proclamation before it was signed by the Thrash.
“I think it’s very important for people to know the dangers of smoking,” she said. “It’s also importunity for me to be an example to my peers.
“I want to be a doctor when I grow up and I can’t tell anyone what’s good for their health if I am constantly doing something to destroy my own health,” she said. “You can get more people to listen to you if you live by example.”
On an even more personal note, Harden said she has a “grandpa” that smokes and it would mean a lot to her if he stops. “I hope se sees me reading the proclamation today and think about what he’s doing. Maybe he will stop smoking.”
The proclamation noted that more Americans die each year from tobacco related diseases than from AIDS, alcohol, car accidents, fires, illegal drugs, murders, and suicides combined.
“It’s just not cool,” Harden emphasized.
Peer Council Member Megan Grafton added that she hopes a number of West Jones students will hear their message about the negative affects of smoking and other drug use. “I know there are a number of students who do drugs,” she said. “This event gives them an opportunity to open their eyes and see what they are doing to themselves.
“Smoking and doing drugs is not good for you.”
The American Cancer Society encourages those who have friends and family members who smoke to quit for good. The organization stresses that the emotional support and encouragement from acquaintances can make the difference in an individual’s decision to quit smoking. Research has shown that support from loved ones is essential for anyone who wants to quit.
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Related Photos
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Photo/ Charlotte A. Graham
Jones County Schools support Great American Smokeout
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