 The Oneida County Health Department has welcomed Niki Kostrova as the new Tobacco Control Coordinator. Niki graduated in 2005 from Bemidji State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing Communications along with minors in both Business Administration and Sociology.
“I am extremely excited about this new opportunity and ready to educate the community on tobacco issues and public health policy.” said Kostrova.
The new budget introduced by Governor Doyle on February 17, 2009 includes strong smoke-free workplace protection and a 75 cent per-pack cigarette tax increase. This legislative session presents a new opportunity for the passage of a comprehensive law prohibiting smoking in all indoor public places and workplaces in Wisconsin, including public buildings, workplaces, restaurants, and taverns.
“The time is now.” said Kostrova. “Smoking is still the leading cause of death and disease in Wisconsin and it doesn’t have to be. While the program has seen much success over the past few years, we still have a lot of work to do.”
While numbers are down, 1 in 5 kids still smoke and secondhand smoke is a serious health hazard that causes premature death and disease. 69% of Wisconsin voters prefer a statewide smoke-free law and 78% believe it will happen soon. Raising the tax on tobacco products will also aid in reducing youth and adult smoking and provide funds for critical health programs.
“Everyone deserves the right to breathe smoke-free air and I am happy to be a part of making this a reality for the people of Wisconsin and Oneida County.” said Kostrova. |
Click Here to view the TFOCC 2007-2009 Action Plan
