C-TURN hosts Time for Big Tobacco to Hit the Gutter! event

PLATTSBURGH | The Commercial Tobacco Use Reduction Network (C-TURN ) brought local youth together for a high-energy, youth event titled "Time for Big Tobacco to Hit the Gutter!" at North Bowl Lanes in Plattsburgh. Reality Check members, along with friends and family, gathered for an afternoon of bowling with a purpose—symbolically "taking down" Big Tobacco one pin at a time. In addition to bowling, participants completed a hands-on activity where they wrote personal messages on paper hand cutouts, sharing why they want to see a tobacco-free future. Josiah Barcomb, a 7th Grader at Malone Middle School, wrote, "I am worried that tobacco products will spread to the innocent and will result in a life-threatening disease," highlighting the real concerns young people have about the impact of tobacco and nicotine products in their communities. The event created a fun and engaging space for youth to express their voices, connect with peers, and learn more about the impact of commercial tobacco products in their communities. "This event was a great opportunity to introduce young people and families to Reality Check and the work we're doing across the region," said Emily Moosmann, Community Engagement Coordinator for C-TURN. "It also gave youth a chance to speak up about issues that matter to them while having fun in a positive, supportive environment." Reality Check is a youth-led movement that empowers young people to stand up to the tobacco industry and advocate for healthier communities. Events like this play a key role in building awareness and encouraging new members to get involved. The event also comes at a time when concerns around emerging nicotine products continue to grow. According to a recent Siena College poll conducted on behalf of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, 64% of New York voters support taxing nicotine pouches at the same rate as other tobacco products, and 68% are concerned about the increasing use of these products among youth. Nicotine pouches, such as Zyn and ON! often marketed with appealing flavors and discreet designs, have become increasingly visible in schools and communities, raising concerns among public health advocates and families alike. "Youth are seeing these products firsthand," Moosmann added. "Events like this help create space for them to talk about what they're noticing and why it matters." C-TURN continues to work alongside youth, community members, and local partners across Clinton, Franklin, and Essex counties to support education, awareness, and community-driven solutions around commercial tobacco use. For more information about Reality Check or to get involved, please contact C-TURN or follow along on social media.

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C-TURN hosts Time for Big Tobacco to Hit the Gutter! event

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