Oral Health America's National Spit Tobacco Education Program (NSTEP) has announced the winner of its annual slogan contest and is encouraging young baseball and softball players to talk to their coaches and parents about tobacco addiction and the health risks of tobacco use.
This year's slogan contest winner is Eli Kruse, a 12-year-old Little League Baseball player with the Woodstock, IL, Little League, whose submission, "Be a hitter, not a spitter -- don't chew tobacco!" sends a clear message that tobacco has no place in the ballpark, according to Oral Health America.
"In addition to being thrilled and proud of Eli's slogan, we are equally delighted that the contest provided an opportunity for our family to discuss the harms of tobacco," said Eli's parents, Herb and Jen Kruse.
Eli's slogan is featured on a pin designed by NSTEP that is being distributed at the Little League Baseball World Series in South Williamsport, PA, from August 20 to 29, 2010. Eli receives a monetary award, a trip to the event with his family, and an on-field award ceremony at the Little League World Series.
Oral Health America's NSTEP is celebrating its ninth year in partnership with Little League International to educate families about the risks of smokeless tobacco use, including oral cancer, gum disease, tooth decay, and nicotine addiction.
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