SMOKE-FREE EARNS HIGH MARKS

Most smokers start the habit as teenagers and become addicted, according to a 1989 Surgeon General's report. Research shows the initiation of daily smoking is highest among children 12 to 14, and that nearly 20 percent of U.S. teens smoke. Today, almost 90 percent of smokers say they would like to quit but can't.

The Smoke-Free Class of 2000 is working to help today's children stop from becoming tomorrow's smokers. Through classroom activities and yearly "graduations," the Class of 2000 is learning about the dangers of smoking.

The 12-year program began when these children entered kindergarten. Wednesday, nearly 1,000 fifth-graders from throughout the region are expected to attend this year's graduation. The highlight will be a visit by the class president of the national program - Keisha Knight Pulliam, for eight years the youngest star of the "Cosby" show. Another feature will be an original musical on the dangers of smoking written by St. Louis DARE officer Tony Coleman.

National co-sponsors include the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, and American Lung Association. Locally, the entire project has been generously underwritten by St. Francis Medical Center. Other local sponsors include Vision 2000 and the Coalition on Smoking and Health.

The program promises to be a real learning experience - packed with lots of fun. We applaud the local volunteers who have led the Smoke-Free effort. Education remains a key to curbing tobacco abuse, and the Smoke Free Class of 2000 program seems an able teacher.

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