To the Editor:

On behalf of public health advocates and our thousands of volunteers across this state, we would like to thank the leadership of the City of Batesville for protecting public health by voting for the comprehensive smoke-free ordinance.  Your action demonstrates your commitment to the health and welfare of your community.   Batesville has taken an important step in becoming a healthier place in which people can work, dine and live

We urge the residents of Batesville to show their support for this ordinance and patronize all of the restaurants and businesses in the city. Use your dollars to let the owners know you appreciate the effort that has been made to clear the air.

We hope that more cities will follow the example set by Batesville and 34 other communities in this state and go smoke-free!

Kimberly Hughes

American Cancer Society

Jennifer Cofer

American Lung Association in MS

Katherine Bryant

American Heart Association

Rhonda Lampkin

The Partnership for a Healthy Mississippi