Smoke-free act
needs approval
To the editor:
There’s no filter for the truth, and the truth is secondhand smoke is killing New Jersey citizens. New Jersey needs to stop killing us, and pass the Smoke Free Air Act.
I survived a massive heart attack at age 34. Since that time I have survived numerous cardiac catheterization procedures as well as angioplasty, a stent and more serious cardiac procedures. I live with an implanted defibrillator and pacemaker. My doctor has told me to avoid tobacco smoke at all costs. The effects of secondhand smoke could kill me.
As an American Heart Association board member and heart attack survivor, I and the American Heart Association join with New Jersey BREATHES, a statewide New Jersey tobacco-control coalition comprised of more than 45 leading state, health, nonprofit and civic organizations, to urge passage of the New Jersey Smoke-Free Air Act before the end of the current legislative session.
Being in a smoke-filled room is worse than smoking a cigarette, says the American Heart Association. The smoke from the tip of a cigarette is 20 times more dangerous than what a smoker inhales.
I shouldn’t have to risk my life to enjoy a performance at a nightclub, a meal at certain restaurants or a game of bowling. My friends, family members and neighbors working in these establishments should not have to risk their health or lives simply to earn a living. All employees working in any New Jersey business deserve a healthy and safe, smoke-free workplace.
During the past decade or so that New Jersey has discussed various forms of clean indoor air or smoke-free air legislation, the American Heart Association and the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids estimate that nearly 19,000 people in New Jersey have died during that time due to the effects of secondhand smoke.
Stop the killing. Pass the New Jersey Smokefree Air Act now.
Gerry Schwab
Board Member
American Heart Association
Merry Christmas
to loved one
To the editor:
It’s Christmas time again my love
The snow is falling on the ground
But I’m not cold
like I used to be
because your arms are wrapped around me tight
No one can see us
just you and me
and God peeking
from behind the tree
The wind blows by
and you whisper to me
‘Look for your blue jay
and it will be me looking over you
for eternity.’
Carol Applegate
East Windsor

