Commending the American Cancer Society on the occasion of the 24th annual Great American Smokeout.

WHEREAS, For the past twenty-three years, the American Cancer Society has conducted the Great American Smokeout which gives those who smoke a day to begin again as smoke-free, healthy individuals; and

WHEREAS, Tobacco use is responsible for at least one out of every five deaths in America each year; and

WHEREAS, Every day three thousand kids start smoking; and

WHEREAS, The American Cancer Society provides smoking cessation tips and information on the health effects caused by tobacco products in an effort to encourage smokers to break their addiction; and

WHEREAS, The American Cancer Society also conducts education and outreach programs which specifically target children and youth to alert kids about the health risks associated with smoking; and

WHEREAS, This year's Smokeout will emphasize the health dangers from second-hand smoke and will promote clean indoor air; and

WHEREAS, Thursday, November 16, 2000 is the 24th annual Smokeout; now therefore

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we commend the American Cancer Society on the occasion of the 24th annual Great American Smokeout.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the American Cancer Society as a symbol of this legislative's body gratitude for this organization's continuing efforts in the fight against cancer.

End