Tobacco Free Action Communities in Columbia & Greene Celebrates 25 Years of Lifesaving Work in New York State

Dozens of state and local landmarks were illuminated purple last week as Tobacco Free Action Communities in Columbia & Greene (TFAC), along with other local and statewide tobacco prevention programs, celebrated the 25th anniversary of the New York State Tobacco Control Program. The lighting initiative, known as Illuminating 25 Years of Landmark Progress, served as a visual tribute to the program’s many successes in saving lives and building healthier, tobacco‑free communities across New York. The tribute aligned with the Great American Smokeout last week and encouraged people who smoke to make a plan to quit.

To mark the occasion, Greenville middle school youth at the SRV Retreat Center for Teen Takeover  held an educational dance celebrating the Great American Smokeout on November 22. TFAC youth organized the event to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the New York State Tobacco Control Program, alongside local partners Teen Action Council and the Columbia Greene Addiction Coalition. Pictured here from left to right are students: Lauren Barry, Adeline Royer, Madison Czyzewski, Jayce Suranno, Max Czyzewski, Morgan Czyzewski. (Downloadable image here). 

The event underscores both the progress made and the need to continue to address rising nicotine use trends. “While youth tobacco use in New York has dropped to a record low of 17%, vaping and nicotine pouches remain a concern. There has been a steady, substantial uptake in the use of oral nicotine pouches, especially among younger adults. Since they are easy to conceal and now are made with flavors that appeal to teenagers, we can only expect those numbers to increase,” said Rose Aulino, RN, CMHN, Tobacco Cessation Specialist and member of the Health Professionals Task Force of the New York State Quitline.

The anniversary and community events highlight that it’s always a great opportunity to quit. Whether you’re a teen or an adult, here are some expert-backed tips to help you take the next step to a tobacco-free future:

Quit Smoking Tips:

• It’s never too late to quit. The Great American Smokeout reminds us that quitting tobacco at any age improves your health, saves money, and can inspire others. You’ll also avoid the hassle of going outside in the cold to smoke or vape.
• Learn from past experiences. Most people who smoke, chew, or vape have tried to quit before. Don’t be discouraged—each attempt is a step toward success. Reflect on what helped and what you might do differently next time.
• You don’t have to quit alone. Enrolling in a proven program like the American Lung Association’s Freedom From Smoking and leaning on friends and family can double your chances of quitting for good.
• Talk to your doctor. There are seven FDA-approved medications that can help you quit. Used properly and consistently, they can significantly boost your chances of success.
• Quit. Don’t switch. E-cigarettes are still tobacco products. The FDA has not approved any e-cigarette as a safe or effective quit aid. Real quitting means ending your addiction to nicotine—not replacing it.

For young people ages 13–24, the New York State Quitline offers DROPTHEVAPE, a free, confidential quit service. Visit nysmokefree.com/drop-the-vape or call 866-NY-QUITS to get started. For adults seeking support, the American Lung Association’s Freedom From Smoking program is available statewide and has helped hundreds of thousands of people quit for good. The program combines expert guidance with peer support to increase your chances of quitting and staying quit.

About TFAC Columbia Greene: 

Tobacco Free Action Communities in Columbia & Greene, a program of the American Lung Association, is a network of local agencies and individuals working together to reduce the prevalence of tobacco use and to promote healthy communities. TFAC Columbia Greene serves Columbia and Greene counties in New York State. TFAC is funded by the New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Tobacco Control. To learn more visit: Tobaccofreenys.org and Lung.org.