Guest Column: Help Someone Take First Step Toward a Nicotine-Free Life

The Great American Smokeout is Thursday, Nov. 16 — a great day to remind friends, co-workers and family about quitting smoking or vaping.

Developed by the American Cancer Society, the Great American Smokeout is a day for people who use tobacco and nicotine to start their journey toward a nicotine-free life. It is a perfect opportunity to think about quitting and its many benefits — physically, mentally, and financially, and maybe even plan a quit attempt.

Remember, quitting can take many tries and help is always available for anyone who uses tobacco or nicotine and who wants to quit, whether on November 16 or at any other time.

Stopping smoking, vaping, or using other tobacco or nicotine products takes time and courage. Encourage people to take the first step by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) to talk with a free "quit coach" or by enrolling online at mass.gov/quitting. 1-800-QUIT-NOW is Massachusetts' tobacco and nicotine Quitline.

The Quitline is open 24 hours each day, seven days a week (except Thanksgiving and Christmas) and experienced coaches are ready to help. They'll share strategies to curb cravings, handle life's big and small stresses, and tackle relapses.

In addition, 1-800-QUIT-NOW has a dedicated Spanish line (1-855-DÉJELO-YA) and interpreter services are available for 200 other languages, so language doesn't need to be a barrier to getting support. And specialized support is available for people who use menthol products, for pregnant people and for people facing mental health challenges.

Thanks for supporting people who use tobacco and nicotine on Nov. 16 and any time. Quitting can take repeated attempts and it all starts by taking the first step. With the help of the Quitline and your support during the Great American Smokeout, anyone can become tobacco and nicotine free, beginning a journey to better health.

See a video about the Massachusetts Quitline below. Visit mass.gov/quitting for more information and to access online or phone support.

Joyce Brewer is program manager a the Berkshire Tobacco-Free Community Partnership at Berkshire Area Health Education Center in Dalton. For more information on the impact of tobacco on your community: 413-842-5160 for jbrewer@berkshireahec.org.

Northern Berkshire Celebrates Spirit of Caring Award Recipients

By Tammy DanielsiBerkshires Staff
06:22PM / Friday, May 10, 2024

NBUW Executive Director Patti Messina recognizes two 'dynamic' women retiring this year: Janice Broderick and Christine MacBeth. 

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The Northern Berkshire United Way on Thursday saluted members of the community who have stepped beyond their roles to help and support others. 

 

Among them was state Rep. John Barrett III, former longtime mayor of North Adams, who was recognized not only for his efforts on behalf of the city for so many years but a "softer side" not always apparent. 

 

The celebration was NBUW's sixth annual Spirit of Caring Awards, held at Norad Mill and attended by its member agencies, sponsors and community members. The room was packed at 3 West for the presentations of the Spirit of the Future Award to Officer Stephanie Mirante, the newly named Steve Green Spirit of Community Award to Wild Oats and the Al Nelson Spirit of Caring Award to Barrett. Also recognized was Adams Heating & Plumbing for campaign of the year. Barrett also provided a proclamation from the House to his fellow recipients. 

 

Executive Director Patti Messina first wanted to recognize two women who are retiring after years of serving the community: Janice Broderick of the Elizabeth Freeman Center and Christine Macbeth, president and CEO of the Brien Center. 

 

"They leave behind a legacy of dedication, commitment and hard work to this community," she said. "We salute you and thank you for your accomplishments."

 

Sharon DeMyer-Nemser and Ellen Sutherland, both members of the board of directors, presented Barrett, elected to the House in 2017, with the award. 

 

"Although John really needs no introduction, we would like to take a moment to review John's past and storied history in our community," said DeMyer-Nemser, ticking off accomplishments including fighting for the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art and convincing political leaders that arts and culture are vital components in building a strong creative economy in the Berkshires during his 26 years as mayor and representing North Berkshire on Beacon Hill.