Commending the American Cancer Society on the occasion of the 29th Annual Great American Smokeout.

WHEREAS, The Great American Smokeout, which is organized and conducted by the American Cancer Society, provides those who smoke with an opportunity to kick their habit and begin again as smoke-free healthy individuals; and

WHEREAS, Thursday, November 17, 2005 is the 29th annual Smokeout; and

WHEREAS, This event is perhaps the most recognized awareness initiative in the American Cancer Society's long history of working to eliminate and prevent cancer through research, education, advocacy and patient services; and

WHEREAS, Approximately, 48 million adults smoke, and 87% of lung cancer deaths are directly related to smoking; and

WHEREAS, Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths, and the most preventable; and

WHEREAS, This year, Philadelphia has been chosen as the host city for the annual Great American Smokeout event; and

WHEREAS, To mark the occasion locally, the American Cancer Society will be urging Philadelphia to pass a comprehensive clean indoor air bill, and urging adult smokers to get help by calling the Pennsylvania Free Quitline; now therefore

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we commend the American Cancer Society on the occasion of the 29th Annual Great American Smokeout.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the American Cancer Society's Philadelphia Office as a symbol of this body's sincere appreciation for its efforts to eliminate and prevent cancer, and promote smoke-free environments.

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