An 11-year-old New Jersey boy is the most recent winner of the Oral Health America (OHA) National Spit Tobacco Education Program (NSTEP) annual slogan contest.
This year's winner is Louie Lafakis, who plays Little League baseball in Basking Ridge, NJ. His submission, "Make a great play ... throw tobacco away," sends a clear message that tobacco has no place in the ballpark, OHA noted.
Lafakis' slogan is featured on a pin designed by NSTEP that will be distributed at the Little League Baseball World Series in South Williamsport, PA, August 18-28. Lafakis will receive a monetary award, a trip to the event with his family, and an on-field award ceremony.
According to a recent public opinion survey commissioned by OHA, most Americans (62%) are equally concerned about cigarette use and chewing tobacco, and nearly half (48%) of younger dads ages 18 to 34 say they are more concerned about smokeless chewing tobacco and dip than cigarettes.
NSTEP works with Little League International to educate families about the health risks of spit tobacco use, including oral cancer, periodontal disease, tooth decay, and nicotine addiction. During the 11-day Little League Baseball World Series, NSTEP provides tobacco and health education to tens of thousands of young baseball and softball players and their families.
