Anti-tobacco youth group wins award

Provo students received the President's Environmental Youth Award on Wednesday for their efforts to make Utah County parks smoke-free.

Middle school and high school students who are part of the OUTRAGE Anti-Tobacco Youth group realized the negative impacts of smoking on children in parks and outdoor recreational areas, and they decided to fight against the harmful effects of tobacco.

The Environmental Protection Agency honored the group for its efforts in organizing community sessions to inform the public about second-hand smoke and collecting cigarette butts in parks, which exposed the fact that most were tossed on or near playground equipment.

"These young environmental leaders have made the air better to breathe for children and adults alike who enjoy Utah parks," said Wendy Dew, EPA's environmental education coordinator. "These students were frustrated with exposure to second-hand smoke in public parks where they play and decided to take action. The result will have great impact for the citizens in their community, and OUTRAGE is to be commended for creating such lasting change."

— Lana Groves