County of Orange
Health Care Agency

Juliette A. Poulson, RN, MN
Director

Mark B. Horton, MD, MSPH
Deputy Agency Director/Health Officer
Public Health Services

Mailing Address:
515 N. Sycamore St.
Santa Ana, Ca 92701

E-Mail: PublicInfo@ochca.com
 

For Immediate Release
October 29, 2001

Contact: Barbara Brashear
(714) 834-3232

(Santa Ana) – An Anaheim middle school student’s artwork was selected by a countywide youth coalition to become a billboard with an important message. Enrique Ortiz, formally a student at Sycamore Junior High, created the anti-smoking billboard design that will be unveiled at 1:15 p.m., October 30 at Sycamore Jr. High, 1801 E. Sycamore, Anaheim.

The billboard is located at the corner of Center St. and State College Blvd., just a few minutes from the school. It depicts a cartoon-like reaction to cigarette smokers: "You’re Killing Me, Bro."

The design was selected through a judging contest held by TUPP’s youth coalition called "Back That Ash Up." Youth from the countywide coalition judged over 60 designs and selected Ortiz’ design to be the winner. As hosts of the event, TUPP youth coalition members will join officials from the County, city and local school district to participate in the unveiling event.

The tobacco industry spends more than $16 million each day in the United States (or $11,000 a minute) on advertising and special promotions. The " Tune Out Tobacco" project helps youth in grades 6 through 12 counter the positive portrayal of tobacco in movies, television, billboards, magazines and in store advertising. By participating in "Tune Out Tobacco," youth have an opportunity to make a positive impact on the entertainment and advertising industries through the development of creative and innovative media products.

TUPP’s mission is to reduce tobacco use and exposure to environmental tobacco smoke in Orange County by mobilizing a broad-based network of community organizations and committed individuals. Youth Coalition members participate and plan special events in the community that address anti-tobacco issues, teaches leadership skills and provides the opportunity for members to make new friends. The TUPP program provides services to the residents of the County through youth, community service and public policy programs. For further information regarding the TUPP program and its services, please call 714-541-1444.

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