Tobacco targets: Students concerned about free smokeless tobacco offered in bars

May 8, 2007 - Tobacco targets: Students concerned about free smokeless tobacco offered in bars By JENN KLEIN - Staff Writer (ChicoER.com). Students at Chico State University (in California) say U.S, Smokeless Tobacco Co. (UST) representatives are promoting smokeless tobacco and targeting local college-aged residents, particularly females, at bars when they are either intoxicated or aren't able to make conscious decisions. UST representatives set up tables, and give out free cans of smokeless tobacco and free merchandise, such as T-shirts and light-up shot glasses branded with "U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company." The company also sends out coupons for additional free cans to those who fill out a survey. UST people have been aggressive at getting the attention of females to the point of advising on how to use smokelss tobacco - even if the person is a nonsmoker. One student noted that on campus it is becoming a much more popular thing to chew than smoke. Students have formed the Tobacco Action Group (TAG) to fight this practice and want the Chico City Council to pass an ordinance that would make the free distribution of tobacco in Chico illegal. If you think this is aggressive marketing just wait until the major cigarette makers, Philip Morris and R.J. Reynolds and even Lorillard, start marketing their moist snuff products nationally. Congratulations to the members of TAG - they must realize: Your Health is Your Wealth. Click on image to enlarge.