December 2008 Archives

A new idea that might even help Obama quit and stay quit.

 While millions of Americans will resolve to quit smoking January 1st, many will be puffing away again by Valentine's Day. It doesn't have to be that way. With the Stay Quit Monday idea, smokers can strengthen their commitment by quitting each and every week, increasing their chances of making this the year they quit for good.

"Stay Quit Monday is perfect for someone like President-elect Obama," Sid Lerner, Chairman of the Healthy Monday Campaign, mused. "Here's a guy who wants to quit, who's ready to quit, but who's very busy, with a stressful job and who just needs that extra motivational push each week to stay on track."

"We know there's a high relapse rate for first-time quitters and that it takes a number of attempts for most people to stop smoking altogether," says Frances Stillman, who co-directs the Institute for Global Tobacco Control at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. "Using each Monday to reaffirm their goal of quitting is a sensible way to stay on track," she suggests.

It's simple math. "For most people who quit, it takes from 7 to 10 tries," says Lerner, "We urge smokers to think about it realistically and use the start of each week to recommit to breaking their addiction. If you just try once a year on your birthday or New Year's, those 'tries' can add up to a decade before you finally quit, but if you try every Monday, and keep at it, chances are good you may succeed within a single year."

"Many smokers will be inspired this New Year's to take an important first step towards a smoke-free life. They can use Stay Quit Monday to reinforce their commitment," said Donald Distasio, CEO of the American Cancer Society, Eastern Division, adding, "If you're resolving to quit, call your American Cancer Society Quitline at 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org. We can help you stay quit."

"Quitting smoking is a marathon, not a 100-yard dash," said Dr. John C. Norcross, Distinguished University Fellow at the University of Scranton. "It helps to set a specific quit date as long as you understand that it's just that - a beginning. Without realistic expectations, focusing on a single day to quit can be self-defeating, because it promotes all-or-nothing thinking. Instead, realistically prepare for the long haul, not the short trip." Norcross has written extensively about New Year's resolutions.

"We think of Monday as the January of the week," says Healthy Monday President Peggy Neu. "Our research indicates that people view Monday as an opportunity for a fresh start and are more likely to start a healthy regimen on Monday than any other day."

"Expect occasional slips in your resolutions," Norcross advises. "Most successful resolvers slip in January. But a slip need not be a fall; pick yourself up and recommit to your resolution." In fact, one study Norcross cites showed that 71% of successful resolvers said their first slip had actually strengthened their efforts.

A report last year from the Institute of Medicine says that "motivating more quit attempts among people who now make none, and more frequent quit attempts among those who now try to quit" is one of five requirements for achieving higher cessation rates. (1)

Smoking is responsible for nearly one in five deaths in the United States and globally it's the number one cause of preventable death. Dean Michael Klag, of Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, called smoking a big part of a "chronic disease pandemic," adding, "If we sharply reduce tobacco use, it will have a tremendous impact on cancer, heart disease, respiratory diseases and other tobacco-related diseases."

Your Stay Quit Monday Toolbox

While quitting is hard, you can get help each week from HealthyMonday.org.

-- Get weekly Monday messages at About.com's quitsmoking.about.com

-- Check in with the American Cancer Society's Quitline at 1-800-ACS-2345 every week or visit cancer.org

-- Visit smokefree.gov for expert advice and tools weekly to help you stay on track

For more resources on quitting smoking and staying quit, visit the Stay Quit Monday page on the Healthy Monday website at HealthyMonday.org/stayquit.

The Stay Quit Monday campaign is a Healthy Monday project of Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Syracuse University Newhouse School of Public Communications.

 

(1) Institute of Medicine. 2007. Ending the Tobacco Problem: A Blueprint for the Nation. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press.

 

 
 
SOURCE Healthy Monday Campaign
 

The Supreme Court ruled this morning that claims against Philip Morris for its deceptive marketing of "Lights" and "lowered tar and nicotine" cigarettes are not preempted. Justice Stevens, writing for the majority, held that claims filed in Maine seeking redress for the deceptive marketing of cigarettes bearing these labels were not preempted by federal statute or the actions of the Federal Trade Commission. The suit, filed on behalf of all Maine consumers by the law firm of Mantese and Rossman, P.C., of Troy, Michigan, will now proceed in the Maine District Court.

Gerard Mantese, counsel for the plaintiffs in the suit, stated, "We are pleased that the United States Supreme Court agreed that the tobacco companies are not immune from suit and can be held accountable, like everyone else, for consumer fraud."

 
 
SOURCE Mantese and Rossman, P.C.
 

Planning, Support Improve Chances of Success; Quitting Smoking Saves You Money
 
Department of Health Acting Secretary Everette James today urged Pennsylvania smokers to make quitting smoking their top New Year's resolution for 2009.

"The start of a new year presents an opportunity to make positive changes in our lives," said James. "While quitting smoking is rarely easy, having a plan and seeking support can greatly increase your chances of succeeding. Our department is here to lend support and provide resources to help smokers make 2009 the year they will quit for good."

A 2007 study conducted by the department showed more than half of all smokers (58 percent) had tried to quit for at least one day in the past year. According to the Federal Centers for Disease Control, the average smoker tries to quit at least seven times before succeeding. Numerous studies demonstrate that quitting success rates double for smokers who receive support.

"Smoking is a major health and economic issue. Given the current state of the economy, many Pennsylvanians are looking for new ways to save money," said James. "The costs of cigarettes add up. By giving up smoking, you'll be healthier and wealthier -- the average smoker will save almost $120 every month."

For help, visit www.DeterminedToQuit.com. The Web site provides guidance in developing a quit plan; a quit calculator and video blogs of other Pennsylvanians sharing their own stories about quitting. There is also information for friends and family members who want to offer support to someone who is trying to quit.

Support is also available by calling 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800-784-8669). The toll free number is available 24 hours a day.

The Department of Health's anti-tobacco efforts are intended to help individuals to quit -- or never start -- using tobacco products, and to curb the retail sale of tobacco to minors.

Under a state law that took effect in September, smoking is now prohibited in most public places and workplaces across Pennsylvania. The new law was a component of Governor Edward G. Rendell's health care reform agenda.

CONTACT: Brandi Hunter-Davenport, +1-717-787-1783

 
 
SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Health
 
 

15th annual edition profiles 1,360 brands of handmade, machine-made and small cigars

 Just in time for last minute holiday shopping, Perelman's 2009 Pocket Cyclopedia of Cigars, the only comprehensive, all-in-one reference to premium cigars, has arrived in tobacco shops nationwide and online at http://www.CigarCyclopedia.com. Compiled and edited by cigar expert, Rich Perelman, the 15th annual Pocket Cyclopedia of Cigars has established itself as the "go-to" reference for aficionados, manufacturers and retailers, and is a must for cigar enthusiasts who want the fine points on handmade, machine-made and small cigars.

The compact, four-inches-by-six, soft cover book provides details and profiles on 1,360 brands of cigars, and fits neatly into briefcases, coat pockets, car glove compartments, gift baskets and holiday stockings. It is price-perfect at $14.95.

In addition to detailed listings for more than 7,500 models of cigars, the 672-page Pocket Cyclopedia includes chapters on cigar basics -- construction, shapes, sizes and how to enjoy cigars -- and The Cigar Almanac. The almanac chapter includes listings of which brands are new, which have gone to the graveyard and lists of the longest, shortest, fattest and thinnest cigars on the market, plus specialty cigars and even a review of the old Cigar Bowl college football game, held in Tampa from 1947-54.

The first edition of Perelman's Pocket Cyclopedia of Cigars was printed in 1995 and had a total of 370 brands, including 287 handmade brands. The 1998 edition reached a high of 1,448 total brands and 1,269 handmade brands. The 2009 edition, with its 1,360 brands, including 1,209 handmades, has the second-highest totals ever.

The Pocket Cyclopedia focuses on cigars available in the United States and listings of cigars produced in Cuba are not included. However, there is a companion volume, Perelman's Pocket Cyclopedia of Havana Cigars (3rd edition), which is also available local tobacconists or at http://www.CigarCyclopedia.com.

About CigarCyclopedia.com

Launched in 2004, http://www.CigarCyclopedia.com is the authoritative online source for coverage of cigars, people and the issues surrounding cigar smoking. The site, which is updated daily, includes in-depth information on prices, rankings, reviews, recommendations and ratings; cigar basics; brand information; history; retailers, manufacturers and distributors; news and views, and parties and promotions. The site logged 1.6 million visits and 5 million page views in 2007.

Available Topic Expert(s): For information on the listed expert(s), click
appropriate link.
Rich Perelman
http://profnet.prnewswire.com/Subscriber/ExpertProfile.aspx?ei=84545

 
 
SOURCE Perelman, Pioneer & Co.
 

 

 

Ruyan Vegas(R) Disposable E-cigar in Select Stores in December; Jazz Disposable E-cigarette Will Premier in Next 30 Days
 
Ruyan America, Inc., Minneapolis, announced that its Ruyan Vegas(R) E-cigar, an award-winning smokeless cigarette substitute, is now available in Pilot Food Mart stores in the Knoxville, Tenn. region.

The Ruyan Vegas looks and feels like a premium cigar, five and one-half inches in length with a circumference of approximately 50 ring size. The Ruyan Vegas uses a microchip, airflow sensor, ultrasonic atomizer and nicotine-infused liquid to produce a vapor that provides its user with the experience of smoking, without producing dangerous second hand smoke and without endangering the health of associates or bystanders. The Ruyan Vegas has approximately 1800 mouthfuls of vapor, nearly the equivalent vapor to the mouthfuls of smoke produced in a carton of conventional cigarettes and is meant to be disposed of after it ceases to produce vapor. Smokers who use it to replace all of their smoking activity report it lasts as long as a carton of cigarettes, while smokers who only use it in places where they cannot or would not smoke report it lasts anywhere from three to six weeks. Pilot stores expect to offer the product at a low introductory price of $29.99, a real bargain when compared to the traditional alternatives.

"We have seen the research from Ruyan America and believe that this is going to be an exciting alternative to smoking that does not emit second hand smoke," stated Dan Fleming, Pilot VP of Operations.

William Bartkowski, President of Ruyan America, Inc., commented, "We appreciate Pilot's commitment to this product category and to Ruyan products. We expect great customer acceptance as they come to appreciate the convenience and value of these products."

Bartkowski went on to note that Ruyan's new disposable E-cigarette, the Ruyan Jazz, will debut this month in certain locations and is also expected to be available in Pilot stores within 60 days. The Ruyan Jazz will be the equivalent of four to five packs of traditional cigarettes and is expected to retail under $25.00 each.

ABOUT PILOT FOOD MARTS

Pilot Corporation, based in Knoxville, Tenn., currently operates the 45 Pilot Food Mart convenience stores throughout East Tennessee. Pilot Corporation also owns Pilot Travel Centers, the largest operator of travel centers in the United States.

ABOUT RUYAN AMERICA

Ruyan America, Inc. is a U.S.-based joint venture partner of Ruyan Holdings Ltd. of Hong Kong. Ruyan America's Chairman, Mr. Hon Lik, is the inventor and holder of the international patents behind the E-cigarette and the atomizing technology that is critical to it, the E-cigar and the E-pipe. These products, varieties of replacement cartridges and their accessories are designed, manufactured and sold for the cigarette alternative/smoking substitution market. They allow smokers to satisfy their cravings for tobacco in places and situations where they otherwise cannot smoke by law, regulation or common courtesy. Ruyan is the only manufacturer of the E-cigarette pursuant to Mr. Hon's patents and Ruyan America is the only Company providing E-cigarettes, E-cigars, E-pipes, their cartridges and accessories to distributors and retailers in concert with safety test results, product liability insurance, detailed ingredient lists and documentation of proprietary intellectual property.

ADVISORY

Warning: be advised that nicotine is addictive. The Ruyan products have not been evaluated by the US FDA. They are not intended to be drug products that diagnose, treat, cure or mitigate any disease or condition. Do not use these products if you are under the age of 21; if you are a non-smoker, if you have a demonstrated allergy or sensitivity to nicotine or any combination of inhalants; or if you are pregnant or nursing.

    William P. Bartkowski
    President of Ruyan America, Inc.
    +1-612-605-8616
    billb@ruyanamerica.com

 

 
 
SOURCE Ruyan America, Inc.
 

Class Action Status Requested To Benefit All Persons in the State of New York who Purchased Marlboro Lights Cigarettes

 
 Parker Waichman Alonso LLP announces that it has filed suit on behalf of a man who suffered economic damages as a result of misrepresentations made about Marlboro Lights cigarettes marketed by Philip Morris USA. The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York. (Docket Number: 08-CV-5085).

The lead plaintiff, a resident of Flushing, New York, has purchased and smoked Marlboro Lights cigarettes for many years. The lawsuit alleges that, because of misrepresentations made by Philip Morris USA, the plaintiff and members of the class purchased Marlboro Lights cigarettes in order to benefit from a low tar, low nicotine alternative to regular cigarettes, but did not receive those benefits.

The lawsuit alleges that as early as 1971, Philip Morris USA deceptively marketed Marlboro Lights cigarettes as a less dangerous alternative to regular cigarettes. The lawsuit charges that Philip Morris USA falsely claimed that Marlboro Lights had "Lowered Tar and Nicotine," even though the company knew those cigarettes would not deliver less tar or nicotine to the consumer.

The lawsuit is seeking disgorgement of all monies Philip Morris USA unjustly received through its unlawful conduct, as well as an injunction barring Philip Morris from unlawfully marketing Marlboro Lights.

"Light" cigarettes are designed in such a way that air is mixed with and dilutes the smoke drawn through the filter. This produces a lower measurement of tar and nicotine for "lights" as compared to regular cigarettes when undergoing standardized testing by the Federal Trade Commission ("FTC") testing apparatus -- automated smoking machines used by the tobacco industry to measure tar and nicotine levels in cigarettes.

Research has shown, however, that smokers who switch to "light" cigarettes from regular cigarettes compensate for the lower nicotine level by inhaling more deeply; taking larger, more rapid, or more frequent puffs; or by increasing the number of cigarettes smoked per day.

About Parker Waichman Alonso LLP

Parker Waichman Alonso LLP is a leading products liability and personal injury law firm that represents plaintiffs nationwide. The firm has offices in New York, New Jersey and Florida. Parker Waichman Alonso LLP has assisted thousands of clients in receiving fair compensation for injuries resulting from defective products, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices.

 

    CONTACT:  Parker Waichman Alonso LLP
              Andres Alonso, Partner
              (800) LAW-INFO
              (800) 529-4636
              info@yourlawyer.com
              www.yourlawyer.net/light-cigarettes

 
 
SOURCE Parker Waichman Alonso LLP
 
 

 

 

 

Many people will make New Year's resolutions to quit smoking this year. With the economy in turmoil, quitting smoking is not only good for your health, but also your wallet. Having a solid smoking cessation plan can greatly improve one's chance for success. The American Lung Association offers tips and resources that have helped thousands of people give up smoking for good:

1. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the different over-the-counter and prescription medications to help you quit smoking.

2. Look into the different kinds of self-help options available to smokers. Visit www.lungusa.org for suggestions.

3. Take time to plan. Pick your quit date a few weeks ahead of time and mark it on the calendar. If you can, pick a day when life's extra stresses are not at

their peak, such as after the holidays. Mark a day on the calendar and stick to it.

4. Get some exercise every day. Walking is a great way to reduce the stress of quitting. Exercise is proven to not only combat weight gain but also to improve mood and energy levels.

5. Eat a balanced diet, drink lots of water and get plenty of sleep.

6. Ask family, friends and co-works for their help and support. Having someone to take a walk with or just listen can give a needed boost.

7. You don't have to quit alone. Help is available. Consider joining a stop-smoking program like Freedom From Smoking from the American Lung Association.

"Be aware that smokers have different experiences when they quit," said Norman Edelman, M.D. American Lung Association Chief Medical Officer. "Some people may feel tired or even easily excitable. Others may feel lightheaded, nervous or irritable and experience headaches in addition to craving tobacco or sweets. It's important to know that these feelings are normal, and may last for several weeks, but eventually they will pass."

The American Lung Association's Freedom From Smoking program has helped thousands of people quit smoking and is considered the gold standard for its clinically proven techniques. Busy people can participate in Freedom From Smoking Online (www.ffsonline.org) from the comfort and privacy of their home at no cost. This seven step program is also offered in a group setting, as many participants find the support of others a beneficial component of the quitting process. A listing of Freedom From Smoking program locations around the country can be accessed by visiting www.lungusa.org.

"Quitting smoking is one of the most important things that you can do for your health," added Dr. Edelman. "While half of adult smokers will die of lung disease, it's important to remember that it's never too late to quit. The American Lung Association offers the best tools and resources available."

About the American Lung Association: Now in its second century, the American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improvinglung health and preventing lung disease. With your generous support, the American Lung Association is "Fighting for Air" through research, education and advocacy. For more information about the American Lung Association, a Charity Navigator Four Star Charity and holder of the Better Business Bureau Wise

Giving Guide Seal, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNG-USA (1-800-586-4872) or visit www.lungusa.org.

 
 
SOURCE American Lung Association
 

Nearly Two-Thirds of Smoking Parents Report Their Child Has Been Exposed to Secondhand Smoke in the Past Week

 Parents magazine and the American Legacy Foundation(R) have teamed up to create Parents Quit for Good, a special quit plan for moms and dads powered by the

foundation's cutting-edge online program, Become an EX(R). The free program launches just in time to help parents plan their New Year's resolutions to quit

smoking.

This new collaboration will be featured in the February, March and April issues of Parents. Because smoking is undeniably one of the hardest addictions to

break, it's important that parents know they aren't alone during the quitting process. Starting December 29, parents can visit www.ParentsQuitForGood.com,

which offers moms and dads step-by-step assistance in identifying their own smoking triggers, advice on how to get through the day without cigarettes, and

opportunities to connect with other parents trying to quit. Whether you smoke a pack a day or only light up occasionally, there's never been a better time to

commit to quit.

"Parents is proud to partner with Legacy on this project," said Dana Points, Editor-in-Chief of the magazine. "An overwhelming number of kids are being

exposed to secondhand smoke, and quitting is one of the best things a parent can do for the whole family's health. Our hope is this resource will help them

pick a quit date and stick to it. Once they reach their quit date, the Web site provides a great place for them to share their daily challenges with other

parents who are also trying to give up cigarettes."

Today's announcement coincides with the release of new research from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Julius B. Richmond Center for Excellence and

Mississippi State University. The Social Climate Survey of Tobacco has been tracking trends in attitudes about smoking, secondhand smoke, and other tobacco-

related social issues over the past eight years.

According to the survey, 42 percent of parents report that their child had been exposed to secondhand smoke anywhere in the past seven days (in public

places, a car, or at home). The news is particularly worrisome for children of smokers: 63.4% of smoking parents reported that their child had been exposed

to any secondhand smoke in the past week. When asked about exposure in their home and car specifically, 27% and 21% reported that their child had been

exposed to secondhand smoke in their home and vehicle, respectively. Compare that to only 4.3% and 1% of nonsmoking parents, and one can see a clear

disparity. The researchers say that while 75 percent of U.S households prohibit smoking in the home and car, 25 percent of American homes are still

unprotected.

"Today's research reinforces the importance of providing quit smoking resources to parents," said Dr. Cheryl Healton, President and CEO of the American

Legacy Foundation. "Their addiction directly impacts the health and future of their children and we hope that many parents will commit their time energy into

this resource."

The effects of secondhand smoke are serious and should not be minimized. It is estimated that secondhand smoke exposure causes approximately 3,400 lung

cancer deaths and 22,700-69,600 heart disease deaths annually among adult nonsmokers in the United States. Young children who are exposed to secondhand smoke

are at a higher risk of developing asthma, ear infections, and cavities. Infants are at a higher risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).

The American Academy of Pediatrics is committed to helping eliminate tobacco and secondhand smoke from children's lives. "As pediatricians, we must help make

tobacco use a thing of the past," said David Tayloe, MD, President of the AAP. "Parents Quit for Good will help make it easier for every clinician to help

reach every tobacco user and to help parents quit smoking."

Secondhand smoke is one very important reason for parents to quit, but it is also important to note that kids whose parents smoke are twice as likely to

light up themselves when they get older. No parent wants their child to grow up to be a smoker, so the campaign offers Ten Things Parents Can Do to Prevent

Their Children From Smoking:

1. Be a role model. Let your kids know you're committed to quitting and need their support.

2. Designate your house as a smoke-free zone.

3. Keep trying to quit. (Please visit www.BecomeAnEX.org for tips on quitting, including how you can re-learn your life without cigarettes.)

4. Don't smoke around your children, even in the car.

5. Educate your children to be savvy consumers of media.

6. Inform your children about the health risks associated with smoking.

7. Know your children's friends and whether smoking takes place in their social circle.

8. Listen carefully to your children and be a sounding board for them.

9. Build skills early on to keep your kids from smoking.

10. If they start to smoke, encourage them in their attempts to quit.

For more information about these tips, please visit www.americanlegacy.org.

To create your personalized quit plan, visit www.BecomeAnEX.org or visit www.parentsquitforgood.com starting on December 29, 2008.

The American Legacy Foundation(R) is dedicated to building a world where young people reject tobacco and anyone can quit. Located in Washington, D.C., the

foundation develops programs that address the health effects of tobacco use, especially among vulnerable populations disproportionately affected by the toll

of tobacco, through grants, technical assistance and training, partnerships, youth activism, and counter-marketing and grassroots marketing campaigns. The

foundation's programs include truth(R), a national youth smoking prevention campaign that has been cited as contributing to significant declines in youth

smoking; EX(R), an innovative public health program designed to speak to smokers in their own language and change the way they approach quitting; research

initiatives exploring the causes, consequences and approaches to reducing tobacco use; and a nationally-renowned program of outreach to priority populations.

The American Legacy Foundation was created as a result of the November 1998 Master Settlement Agreement (MSA) reached between attorneys general from 46

states, five U.S. territories and the tobacco industry. Visit www.americanlegacy.org

About Parents

Since its inception in 1926, Parents has helped parents understand the issues and challenges that are important to them. Currently, the brand supports a

powerful community of almost 16 million readers devoted to the efforts of parents, educators and other citizens who strive to make the world a better place

for our children. Parents can be found online at www.parents.com.

 

 

Statement of Matthew L. Myers President, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids

The U.S. Supreme Court today handed down a major victory for consumers and public health by ruling that smokers can use state consumer protection laws to sue Philip Morris and other tobacco companies for deceptive marketing of "light" and "low-tar" cigarettes. Today's ruling poses a significant legal threat to the tobacco industry and is an important step toward holding cigarette manufacturers accountable for decades of deceptive and harmful marketing of "light" cigarettes. This decision, in a Maine case called Altria Group, Inc., v. Good, clears the way for more than 40 "light" cigarette lawsuits in more than 20 states to move forward. These lawsuits contend that cigarette manufacturers violated state consumer protection laws by marketing some cigarette brands as "light" and delivering "lowered tar and nicotine" to smokers despite knowing that these claims were not true.

 

Today's ruling comes on the heels of decisive action last month by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) prohibiting tobacco companies from claiming that tar and nicotine ratings on cigarette packs are government approved. The FTC found that the machine test currently used to measure tar and nicotine exposure (called the "Cambridge Filter Method" or "FTC method") is flawed, does not provide useful information to consumers and is likely to mislead consumers.

While the Supreme Court ruling and the FTC's action are important steps in holding the tobacco industry accountable, they also underscore the need for legislation pending before Congress to grant the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulatory authority over tobacco products and marketing. The lack of regulation has allowed the tobacco industry to get away with the deceptive marketing of "light" and "low-tar" cigarettes, which continues today, and leaves the industry free to find new ways to deceive consumers in the future. The legislation before Congress would finally ban deceptive terms such as "light" and "low-tar." It would grant the FDA authority to strictly regulate any health claims about tobacco products to ensure they are scientifically proven and are not marketed in ways that encourage new smokers to start or discourage current smokers from quitting. The FDA would also have authority to require new testing methods, as sought by the FTC action, to more accurately measure levels of tar, nicotine and other constituents in tobacco products, to use this information to require changes in tobacco products and to decide whether to publicly release this information.

The U.S. House of Representatives on July 30 voted 326 to 102 to approve this legislation, and it has 60 sponsors in the Senate, including President-elect Barack Obama and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. This legislation presents the incoming Administration and Congress with the opportunity for an early, bipartisan victory that would significantly improve the nation's health. We urge the new Congress to move quickly to enact this legislation when it convenes in January.

Numerous public health authorities, including the National Cancer Institute in a landmark 2001 report, have found that cigarette manufacturers for decades have deceptively marketed "light" and "low-tar" cigarettes as reducing smokers' health risks despite knowing from their own research that this was not the case. The scientific evidence is clear that machine-based measures of tar and nicotine do not provide meaningful information about the amounts of tar and nicotine that smokers actually receive or about the relative health risks of different cigarettes. That is because the tobacco industry has been able to design cigarettes to undermine the validity of the test and because the machine test does not take into account the way actual smokers adjust their smoking behavior, for example by taking more or deeper puffs or blocking ventilation levels to maintain nicotine levels.

In an August 2006 ruling that the tobacco companies have violated civil racketeering laws, U.S. District Court Judge Gladys Kessler found that the tobacco company defendants "falsely marketed and promoted 'low tar' and 'light' cigarettes as less harmful than full-flavor cigarettes in order to keep people smoking and sustain corporate revenues."

 
 
SOURCE Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids

 Following recent senior management changes, Schweitzer-Mauduit International, Inc. (NYSE: SWM) today announced additional management changes effective January 1, 2009.

Arnold Alvarez will become General Manager, S.E. Asia with responsibility for SWM's Indonesian and Philippine paper operations, and for sales of all SWM papers in the region, reporting to Otto Herbst, Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Alvarez, age 40, joined SWM as General Manager, PDM Philippines Industries, Inc. in July 2007. He was previously Operations Director for Kimberly-Clark Philippines, Inc. and held a number of positions of increasing responsibility with Unilever in the Philippines and China. He holds a B.S. degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of the Philippines.

Frederic Villoutreix, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer elect, commented, "Arnold has done an outstanding job of turning around our Philippines business unit and the expansion of his responsibilities to the S.E. Asian region not only speaks to his accomplishments but also fits strategically with SWM."

Also, Widjaja Jiemy, President, S.E. Asian Operations and General Manager, CTM, announced his plans to retire from SWM. Mr. Jiemy joined SWM in May 2005 as President, S.E. Asian Operations which includes P.T. PDM Indonesia and PDM Philippines Industries, Inc. In January 2006, he also assumed responsibility as the first General Manager of CTM, SWM's China joint venture paper operations.

In announcing the retirement of Widjaja Jiemy, Wayne Deitrich, retiring Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer (effective December 31, 2008) commented, "Widjaja has led the construction and development of our 'greenfield' paper mill operations in Jiangmen, China. The Mill construction was completed on schedule and under budget. The mill is fully operational and has demonstrated its ability to produce world-class cigarette and porous plug wrap papers. I want to thank Widjaja for completing this enormous task in delivering SWM's first manufacturing operation in China."

Replacing Widjaja Jiemy as General Manager, CTM, will be Steve Jiang. As part of a planned succession, Mr. Jiang, age 44, joined SWM in June 2008 as Senior Manager of China Paper Products. In this role, he received extensive training in cigarette and porous plug wrap papers manufacturing at SWM operations in France, the Philippines and China. In September 2008, he joined CTM as Assistant General Manager and was elected General Manager by the CTM Board of Directors on December 10, 2008. Mr. Jiang has an extensive manufacturing background with such Chinese companies as Video Technologies, the Robust Group, Essel Packaging, Diverse Lever, Hiwin Boise Cascade Paper and Xinhua Synthetic Company. He holds a B.S. degree in Automatic Control from the Northeast University of China and a MBA from South China University of Technology.

Schweitzer-Mauduit International, Inc. is a diversified producer of premium specialty papers and the world's largest supplier of fine papers to the tobacco industry. It also manufactures specialty papers for use in other applications. Schweitzer-Mauduit and its subsidiaries conduct business in over 90 countries and employ 3,200 people worldwide with operations in the United States, France, Brazil, the Philippines, Indonesia, Canada and a joint venture in China. For further information please visit the Company's Web site at www.schweitzer-mauduit.com.

Contact: Bill Foust Torben Wetche

              770-569-4203      770-569-4277

 
 
SOURCE Schweitzer-Mauduit International, Inc
 

 

The following is a statement of Matthew L. Myers, President, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids:

The Federal Trade Commission today has taken important action to protect public health by prohibiting tobacco companies from claiming that cigarette tar and nicotine ratings are based on an FTC-approved testing method or that they are endorsed or approved by the FTC. The FTC action rescinds guidance issued in 1966 that permitted statements concerning tar and nicotine yields based on a smoking machine test known as the Cambridge Filter Method, commonly called "the FTC method." Today's FTC action puts the tobacco companies on notice that they risk legal action by the FTC if they use the current tar and nicotine ratings in a way the FTC finds false or misleading.

While today's FTC action is important, it will not by itself end the tobacco industry's deceptive marketing of "light" and "low-tar" cigarettes and underscores the need for Congress to enact pending legislation to grant the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulatory authority over tobacco products. That is exactly what FTC Commissioner Pamela Jones Harbour urged Congress to do in a statement today.

Today's FTC action does not explicitly prohibit the tobacco companies from continuing to make statements regarding tar and nicotine levels and does not immediately ban deceptive cigarette descriptions such as "light" or "low-tar." The legislation before Congress would ban such terms. It would also grant the FDA the authority to strictly regulate any health claims about tobacco products to ensure they are scientifically proven and are not marketed in ways that encourage new smokers to start or discourage current smokers from quitting. The FDA would also have authority to require new testing methods, as sought by today's FTC action, to more accurately measure levels of tar, nicotine and other constituents in tobacco products, to use this information to require changes in tobacco products and to decide whether to publicly release this information.

The U.S. House of Representatives on July 30 voted 326 to 102 to approve this legislation, and it has 60 sponsors in the Senate, including President-elect Barack Obama and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. This legislation presents the incoming Administration and Congress with the opportunity for an early, bipartisan victory that would significantly improve the nation's health.

The FTC's action is timely and needed in light of the overwhelming scientific evidence that machine-based measures of tar and nicotine do not provide meaningful information about the amounts of tar and nicotine that smokers actually receive or about the relative health risks of different cigarettes. That is because the tobacco industry has been able to design cigarettes to undermine the validity of the test and because the machine test does not take into account the way actual smokers adjust their smoking behavior, for example by taking more or deeper puffs or blocking ventilation holes, to maintain nicotine levels. As the FTC stated today, "The Commission will not allow its stamp of approval on a test method that is confusing or misleading to consumers."

Numerous public health authorities, including the National Cancer Institute in a landmark 2001 report, have found that cigarette manufacturers for decades have deceptively marketed "light" and "low-tar" cigarettes as reducing health risks despite knowing from their own research that this was not the case. The manufacturers' ability to claim that nicotine and tar ratings are based on an FTC-approved testing method has been an integral part of this low-tar lie. In an August 2006 ruling that the tobacco companies have violated civil racketeering laws, U.S. District Court Judge Gladys Kessler found that the tobacco company defendants "falsely marketed and promoted 'low tar' and 'light' cigarettes as less harmful than full-flavor cigarettes in order to keep people smoking and sustain corporate revenues."

Today's FTC action also provides important support for ongoing litigation to hold cigarette manufacturers accountable for the harm caused by their deceptive marketing of "light" and "low-tar" cigarettes. Class-action lawsuits have been filed in several state courts accusing cigarette manufacturers of fraudulently marketing "light" and "low-tar" cigarettes as safer than other cigarettes. The Altria Group Inc., parent company of Philip Morris, has asked the U.S. Supreme Court in a pending appeal to dismiss the state cases because the company acted on the basis of FTC regulation that preempts state law. The FTC and the U.S. Solicitor General filed a brief in the case urging the Supreme Court to reject Altria's appeal. The brief argued that the FTC "never gave affirmative endorsement to such descriptors, much less to their deceptive use."

More information on the FTC's action is available at:

http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2008/11/cigarettetesting.shtm

 
 
SOURCE Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids
 

Reynolds American Inc. (NYSE: RAI) today announced the appointment of new chief executive officers for the company's Conwood Company, LLC and Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company, Inc. subsidiaries. The current chief executives of those two subsidiaries plan to retire in 2009.

Bryan K. Stockdale, 50, has been named president and CEO of Conwood, the nation's second-largest smokeless tobacco manufacturer, effective Feb. 1, 2009. Stockdale will succeed William M. Rosson, 60, who plans to retire after 34 years of service at Conwood. Stockdale is currently senior vice president of marketing operations for R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, Reynolds American's largest subsidiary, and has worked for that company for 30 years. Rosson will remain with Conwood in an advisory role for a period of time after Stockdale joins the company to ensure a smooth transition.

Nicholas A. Bumbacco, 44, has been named president and CEO of Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Co., effective March 1, 2009. Bumbacco will replace Richard M. Sanders, 55, who plans to remain in an advisory transition position before retiring with 32 years of service on July 1, 2009. Bumbacco is currently president and CEO of RAI's R.J. Reynolds Global Products, Inc. subsidiary. Bumbacco has 20 years of experience in the global tobacco industry. RAI will be transitioning the lines of business formerly managed by R.J. Reynolds Global Products to other RAI subsidiaries, so no successor to Bumbacco in his previous position will be named.

"Reynolds American is in a dynamic and exciting period of its history," said Susan M. Ivey, chairman, president and CEO of Reynolds American. "As we further develop our business model of becoming a total tobacco company, we are fortunate to have two talented individuals with extensive industry experience ready to take on leadership roles at this pivotal time," she said.

"Both Bill Rosson and Rick Sanders have distinguished themselves in their leadership of their respective companies, overseeing tremendous growth and expansion at both businesses," Ivey said. "We sincerely thank both of them for their decades-long commitment to their companies, their employees and their consumers."

ABOUT US

Reynolds American Inc. (NYSE: RAI) is the parent company of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company; Conwood Company, LLC; Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company, Inc; and R.J. Reynolds Global Products, Inc.

-- R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company is the second-largest U.S. tobacco company. The company's brands include five of the 10 best-selling cigarettes in the United States: Camel, Kool, Pall Mall, Winston and Doral.

-- Conwood Company, LLC is the nation's second-largest manufacturer of smokeless tobacco products. Its leading brands are Kodiak, Grizzly and Levi Garrett. Conwood also sells and distributes a variety of tobacco products manufactured by Lane, Limited, including Winchester and Captain Black little cigars, and Bugler roll-your-own tobacco.

-- Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company, Inc. manufactures Natural American Spirit cigarettes and other additive-free tobacco products, and manages and markets other super-premium brands.

-- R.J. Reynolds Global Products, Inc., directly or through others, manufactures, sells and/or distributes American-blend cigarettes, including Natural American Spirit, and other tobacco products to a variety of customers in selected markets outside the United States.

Copies of RAI's news releases, annual reports, SEC filings and other financial materials are available at http://www.ReynoldsAmerican.com .

 
 
SOURCE Reynolds American Inc.