Smoke-Free Knoxville (SFK) has joined with UT’s Greek organizations to promote public parks free of secondhand smoke. 99 Greeks participated in picking up cigarette butts in four Knox County parks; 15,300 butts were collected providing a clean and healthier environment to be enjoyed. Gamma Sigma Sigma Sorority took home the first place trophy for collecting the most cigarette butts. Great job ladies!

Secondhand smoke greatly effects children and increases their risk of developing respiratory infections, lung infections, and asthma. It is the joint responsibility of everyone to protect children and reduce these risks in any way possible. This spring, the city of Knoxville Parks and Recreation Department is planning to display signage that promotes a smoke-free environment. Metropolitan Drug Commission is an active member of Smoke Free Knoxville coalition.