News and Events
Okeechobee County SWAT Chapter Welcomes New SWAT Advisor
September 16, 2025
The Okeechobee County SWAT (Students Working Against Tobacco) Chapter welcomes a new SWAT advisor at Osceola Middle School.
We asked Eva to tell us a little bit about herself and her career within the district: “Hi, I’m Eva Delgado, the new Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) advisor at Osceola Middle School. I’ve been a Migrant Advocate in our district since 2023, helping students and families with enrollment, English language learning, and academic support.
As a first-generation Mexican American, the first in my family to graduate high school and attend college, I’m proud to be paving the way while working toward my education degree at Indian River State College. I’ve always been outspoken about standing up for what’s right, and I love channeling that passion into supporting our students.
I stay very involved in school activities—organizing events, collaborating with teachers, and encouraging students to become leaders in making positive choices. I’m excited to guide the OMS SWAT Club this year as we raise awareness about the dangers of vaping and tobacco use and plan fun, impactful projects for our school and community.” Read More
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Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechbee County shares a special night with the NOPE Task Force
August 29, 2025
On August 29th, Tobacco Free Partnership (TFP) members and Tobacco Program Manager Courtney Moyett attended the Narcotics Overdose Prevention and Education (NOPE) Task Force’s Candlelight Vigil at the Okeechobee County Civic Center. The event brought the community together to honor the lives lost to substance use disorder and to stand united in the fight against addiction.
The vigil served as a powerful evening of remembrance, reflection, and recommitment. Candles were lit in honor of loved ones who have passed, reminding the community of the urgent need to continue education, prevention, and support efforts.
Courtney Moyett emphasized the connection between tobacco prevention and the mission of NOPE: “The work we do in tobacco prevention deeply connects with the mission of NOPE. At the heart of both efforts is addressing addiction, which can take lives far too soon. Whether it’s nicotine, opioids, or any other substance, prevention, education, and support are critical to protecting our community and giving people the chance to live healthy, full lives.”
As community partners, the Tobacco Free Partnership stands alongside NOPE and others dedicated to ending the cycle of addiction in Okeechobee County. Events like this vigil not only honor those we have lost, but also strengthen the resolve to build a healthier, drug-free future for the community. Read More
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Tobacco Free Partnership Members Monitor Tobacco Retailers in Okeechobee
June 9, 2025
Recently, members of the Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee County and S.W.A.T. youth took to the community to assess local tobacco retailers’ compliance with displaying corrective statement signage—a vital public education effort that holds the tobacco industry accountable for decades of misleading advertising.
Together, the team visited 10 retailers, including one pharmacy, two mass merchandisers, two grocery stores, and five convenience stores (with or without gas). Their goal: to determine whether stores were properly displaying corrective statements as required by law.
But what are corrective statements—and why do they matter?
Corrective statements were mandated as part of a 2006 federal court ruling, after the U.S. government sued major tobacco companies for violating racketeering laws by deceiving the public about the health risks of smoking. As a result, tobacco companies are now required to publicly admit the harms of their products through signage and other public statements. These signs address issues such as the addictive nature of nicotine, the dangers of secondhand smoke, and the risks of smoking-related diseases. Read More
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Congratulations to Our Graduating SWAT Seniors!
June 5, 2025
We are proud to recognize 13 seniors from the Okeechobee High School SWAT Club who have earned the distinguished honor of wearing a SWAT Club cord at graduation. This achievement reflects their commitment to meeting a rigorous set of expectations throughout their time in the club.
Each year, SWAT Club highlights these honor cords during its annual club rush event to inspire and recruit new members. Students are often drawn to SWAT for deeply personal reasons—many have family members affected by tobacco use and are passionate about breaking the cycle of addiction through education and advocacy. Others join to take part in meaningful community events and give back to their local area.
What is SWAT?
SWAT (Students Working Against Tobacco) is Florida’s statewide youth-led movement dedicated to mobilizing, educating, and empowering young people to stand up against Big Tobacco and promote a tobacco-free future. Read More
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Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee County Expands Community Engagement by Sponsoring the Okeechobee Youth Livestock Show
March 12, 2025
The Tobacco Free Partnership (TFP) of Okeechobee County is proud to strengthen its community ties through a new partnership with the Okeechobee Youth Livestock Show (OYLS). As a 2025 sponsor, TFP is excited to support this cherished annual event, which runs alongside the Okeechobee County Fair each spring. With thousands of residents attending throughout the week, this sponsorship provides a unique opportunity to promote tobacco-free initiatives while celebrating local youth in agriculture.
As part of this partnership, representatives from TFP and Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) Ambassadors were present at the event, engaging directly with attendees. Through one-on-one interactions, they educated community members about the importance of creating tobacco-free environments, shared resources such as the Quit Your Way program, and reinforced the mission of fostering healthier social norms.
About the Okeechobee Youth Livestock Show
Since 1969, the Okeechobee Youth Livestock Show, Inc. has provided a platform for young people to develop leadership, responsibility, and agricultural skills. This non-profit organization hosts its annual Livestock Show and Sale at the Okeechobee Agri-Civic Center every March. The weeklong event showcases livestock raised by approximately 300 local students, ages 5 to 18, through their 4-H and FFA projects. Throughout the fair, attendees can view a variety of animals, including rabbits, poultry, goats, beef cattle, steers, swine, and dairy cattle. The event concludes with an exciting livestock auction and contests in showmanship and herdsmanship, with exhibitors competing for the prestigious title of Grand Champion.
Read More
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SWAT Youth Spread Holiday Cheer
January 10, 2025
The Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee County is proud to highlight the efforts of Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) Youth, who dedicated their time to community service during the holiday season. Their participation in local events not only spread holiday cheer but also reinforced their commitment to a tobacco-free future.
SWAT members volunteered as bell ringers for the Salvation Army, helping to raise over $500 to support local families in need. Their enthusiasm and dedication encouraged donations and highlighted the spirit of giving within the Okeechobee community.
In addition, SWAT members took part in the annual Santa in the Park event, hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Okeechobee. Throughout the week-long event, they assisted with crowd control, took photos, and interacted with families. By wearing SWAT shirts and providing educational materials, they also took the opportunity to promote a tobacco-free lifestyle and engage with local decision-makers.
Santa in the Park remains a well-attended tradition in Okeechobee, drawing numerous families as well as local leaders and elected officials. Through their involvement, SWAT members contributed to the success of the event while reinforcing tobacco-free social norms. Additionally, their participation allowed them to earn service hours toward their SWAT graduation honor cord. Read More
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Okeechobee SWAT Youth Attend Region 4 Training
November 2, 2024
On November 2, 2024, two SWAT (Students Working Against Tobacco) youth from Okeechobee traveled to Port St. Lucie for the Region 4 SWAT Training. This event brought together youth from across the region to learn, grow, and strengthen their advocacy efforts.
The training covered a variety of engaging and impactful topics, including K-12 School Tobacco Policies, Tobacco Point of Sale activities, mental health, and presentation skills. Participants also took part in several team-building exercises designed to foster collaboration and leadership, as well as immersive learning activities that deepened their understanding of tobacco prevention strategies.
“Our youth left this training more informed and better equipped to make a difference in their schools and communities,” said SWAT Chapter Coordinator, Courtney Moyett “These trainings are vital for building skills, knowledge, and confidence in young leaders.”
Events like this not only educate youth about important issues but also provide them with the tools and connections needed to drive change. Stay tuned for updates on how these youth plan to apply what they’ve learned to their ongoing advocacy work in Okeechobee!
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Tobacco Free Partnership Hosts Successful Park Clean-Up Event
October 1, 2024
On September 21, 2024, the Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee hosted a park clean-up at the Okeechobee County Sports Complex, focusing on all litter while emphasizing tobacco-related waste. This impactful event was a collaboration with Okeechobee County Parks and Recreation and coincided with the unveiling of the new splash pad and the Family Fun Day celebration.
Community members, SWAT (Students Working Against Tobacco) youth, and TFP members worked together to beautify the park and raise awareness about the prevalence of tobacco litter. Cigarette butts, often mistaken as biodegradable, are the most commonly littered item worldwide, with 4.5 trillion discarded each year. In addition to cigarette waste, the team collected numerous disposable vapes, which are a growing environmental hazard due to their plastic and battery components.'
“Tobacco litter is not just unsightly; it’s a significant pollutant that harms our environment and wildlife,” said TFP Member, Brandi Flaschner. “Through events like this, we hope to inspire our community to take action and understand the importance of proper waste disposal.” By combining community service with education and fun, the Tobacco Free Partnership and its partners demonstrated how collective efforts can make a lasting impact. Read More
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Okeechobee County SWAT Chapter: Growing. Learning. Teaching
September 16, 2024
SWAT (Students Working Against Tobacco) is Florida's statewide youth organization working to mobilize, educate and equip Florida youth to revolt against and de-glamorize Big Tobacco. SWAT is a united movement of empowered youth working towards a tobacco-free future. SWAT works to change the social norms associated with tobacco. This means we want to change the way people think about tobacco… making it less desirable, less acceptable, and less accessible.
SWAT Youth accomplish this by advocating for change in local policies that affect how tobacco is marketed, how it is sold, and where it can be used. SWAT members can typically expect to participate in a wide range of activities including community education and outreach, public speaking, collecting data, and media advocacy.
The Okeechobee County SWAT Chapter has been a driving force in tobacco prevention within their school district for many years. Currently there are 3 SWAT Clubs in Okeechobee County: Okeechobee High School, Yearling Middle School and Osceola Middle School. This year, the SWAT Chapter plans to add a community-based club to the mix, in hopes of reaching lower socio-economic populations, as they are more susceptible to tobacco use. Read More
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Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee sponsors Back to School Expo
July 27, 2024
In collaboration with the event host, Our Village Okeechobee, the Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee sponsored and participated in the 6th annual back to school expo.
As the new school year begins, there’s no better way to show support for our local students and families than by supporting a back-to-school event. This event help provide essential school supplies, resources, and a sense of community to ensure every child is ready for success.
The partnership’s involvement in the annual back-to-school event, allows businesses and organizations to make a direct, positive impact on the families of Okeechobee. Sponsorship funds help cover the cost of supplies, educational activities, and even refreshments for students and parents. Beyond financial support, sponsors can also participate by hosting booths, offering giveaways, or organizing fun activities to engage attendees.
This event is a win-win for both the community and local businesses. It builds goodwill, strengthens community ties, and shows a commitment to investing in the future generation. Whether you’re a small business or a large corporation, your contribution can help set the tone for a successful school year, ensuring no student is left behind. Read More
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Okeechobee County SWAT Youth Participate in Take Down Tobacco Day
June 4, 2024
On April 4, 2024, members of the Osceola Middle School (OMS) Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) Club participated in the “Take Down Tobacco Day, National Day of Action,” the national tobacco observance day hosted by Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids. On "Take Down Tobacco National Day of Action," youth advocates across the country rally together to stand up and speak out against the tobacco industry.
This year on the Day of Action, youth advocates and their communities come together to stand up to Big Tobacco, expose the tricks this industry uses to lure kids into addiction, and call for change. Students at OMS spent time making poster to hang in the hallways of the school, educating their peers on the tricks and lies big tobacco is trying to get them to believe. The posters were also used in the parent pick up line to educate the adults on Big Tobacco’s deceptive marketing tactics.
Okeechobee County SWAT Chapter Coordinator Courtney Moyett said “Here’s the truth: Tobacco companies aggressively market deadly and addictive products while raking in billions of dollars in profits. They fight policies that would reduce tobacco use. They constantly develop new products to hook our youth. In a nutshell, they continue to lie, cheat and fool people into a lifetime of addiction, disease and death. Participating in national events, such as take down tobacco day is one way that SWAT youth can use their voices to advocate for change.” Read More
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City of Okeechobee Parks are Tobacco Free
April 2, 2024
On April 2, 2024, the City of Okeechobee adopted an Ordinance making all public parks in the city limits tobacco and vape free. This new ordinance will protect our children’s health, support tobacco users who want to quit, and keep our community clean.
Tobacco free spaces support our community in many ways. These spaces improve health by providing fewer opportunities for youth to start smoking and reducing secondhand smoke exposure. Across the nation, cigarettes are by far the most littered item in the country. Cigarette butts are harmful if ingested by children, pets, or other animals. These ordinances help lower cigarette litter, encourage people to make healthy choices, and increase quit attempts.
Group photo left to right: Councilmember David McAuley, Vice Mayor Monica Clark, seated, Mayor Dowling R. Watford, Jr., Councilmember Noel Chandler, and Councilmember Bob Jarriel.
Mayor Dowling Watford stated “I am very pleased the City Council voted to make our parks smoke-free. This will protect our children from secondhand smoke and prevent the litter from cigarette butts. I often take my grandchildren to the parks, and I am glad they will not be exposed to cigarette smoke.” Read More
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Okeechobee County SWAT Youth Participate in Chamber Socks for Seniors Program
January 8, 2024
Okeechobee County Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) Chapter participated in a new community outreach project this year called “Socks for Seniors.” This project was spearheaded by the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County to ensure all the senior citizen residents of Okeechobee County have pairs of anti-slip socks during this holiday seasons.
The SWAT youth were able to get donations to purchase over 200 pairs of socks for this project. SWAT youth partnered with Key Club students from Okeechobee High School to unpackage all the socks and place 2 pairs in holiday bags to distribute to the residents at the Okeechobee Health Care Facility.
On December 14th SWAT youth arrived at the Okeechobee Health Care Facility adorned in holiday attire and went door to door to hand deliver the socks to all the residents. SWAT youth enjoyed being able to have conversation with residents, educate them about what the local SWAT chapter does in Okeechobee and spread holiday smiles and cheer. Read More
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Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee County sponsors Santa in the Park
January 5, 2024
The Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee County is proud to have partnered with the Kiwanis Club of Okeechobee for the 46th Annual Santa in the Park. The event ran from December 16-22 and involved over 28 Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) Youth and a host of community partners.
Our SWAT Youth was an integral part of this year’s event, which ran from 6-8 p.m. each evening in the Okeechobee town gazebo. The students helped with crowd control, picture taking, and communicating with parents. Not only were they “Santa’s Helpers”, but these students raised awareness about harmful tobacco by wearing their SWAT shirts, setting up a SWAT booth with literature, and networking with community decision makers and leaders on new initiatives in the SWAT Club of Okeechobee County. Read More
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Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) Chapter Host Their Annual Fall Pumpkin Painting Event
October 23, 2023
Okeechobee SWAT Chapter hosted their annual SWAT pumpkin painting event to bring awareness to our local SWAT clubs and anti-vaping messaging. SWAT youth leaders held several meetings to brainstorm messaging and designs of the pumpkin messaging. Over 50 youth attended the event, along with appearances from the Mayor Watford City of Okeechobee, and Sheriff Noel Stephen from the Okeechobee County Sheriff Office. This event was made possible through funding from the Children’s Services Council of Okeechobee, and a special thanks to Okeechobee County Parks and Recreation for providing the event space.
You can see more photos from this event by clicking here!
SWAT aims to empower, educate and equip Florida youth to revolt against Big Tobacco. SWAT is a movement of empowered youth working together to de-glamorize tobacco use. Their efforts aim to shape tobacco-free norms, make tobacco less desirable, less acceptable, and less accessible! For more information on local youth tobacco prevention efforts, visit www.swatflorida.com or contact Courtney Moyett, Okeechobee County's Tobacco Program Manager, at CMoyett@QuitDoc.com.
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Okeechobee County Students Working Against Tobacco Attend Local Legislative Delegation Meeting
October 4th, 2023
On October 4th, 2023, Okeechobee County SWAT (Students Working Against Tobacco) youth were honored to speak about education and prevention of tobacco use within the local community during the Okeechobee County Legislative Delegation meeting. In attendance was Senator Grall, Representative Kaylee Tuck, as well as local elected officials within Okeechobee County.
Okeechobee High School SWAT President Edith Ramirez presented information on tobacco use in Okeechobee County, the importance of prevention and education on the harmful effects of nicotine addiction, steps that her SWAT club is taking on the youth vaping crisis, and outreach efforts of the Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee. Ramirez stressed that she fears her generation will be highly impacted by the use of electronic nicotine delivery devices and she encouraged elected officials locally and statewide to take action before this becomes a teen vaping epidemic.
Representative Kaylee Tuck, a former member of her local SWAT club, along with Senator Grall and the other meeting attendees were impressed with the information presented as well as the professionalism of the SWAT members. (Read More)
Pictured from L-R: Senator Erin Grall, SWAT youth Johana Hernandez,
SWAT youth Edith Ramirez, Representative Kaylee Tuck
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Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) Club Participates in Club Rush At Okeechobee High School
September 7, 2023
On September 7th, 2023, Okeechobee High School S.W.A.T. club members participated in Club Rush. This school-sponsored event is an opportunity for clubs to showcase what is in store for membership during the school year.
Okeechobee S.W.A.T. youth focused their booth on their service to the community and ability to affect change on a state level. They displayed photos of past events and brochures, offered giveaways, and encouraged other students to join. Okeechobee High School S.W.A.T. club is excited to begin another year of fun, education, and service!
SWAT aims to empower, educate and equip Florida youth to revolt against Big Tobacco. SWAT is a movement of empowered youth working together to de-glamorize tobacco use. Their efforts aim to shape tobacco-free norms, make tobacco less desirable, less acceptable, and less accessible! For more information on local youth tobacco prevention efforts, visit www.swatflorida.com or contact Courtney Moyett, Okeechobee County's Tobacco Program Manager, at CMoyett@QuitDoc.com.
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Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee County Speaks to IRSC Expanding Horizons Summer Camp
July 17, 2023
On July 17th, the Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee was invited to speak to the Indian River State College (IRSC) Expanding Horizons Summer Youth Program. Program Manager Courtney Moyett and Tobacco Prevention Specialist Kelly Owens presented to fifteen Okeechobee youth about our Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) program and opportunities, tobacco use, social justice and health equity as it relates to tobacco use.
“Big Tobacco has targeted minority groups for decades through shady marketing practices and tobacco profiling. Speaking to a largely minority group of students about ways to recognize these practices and understand their long-term effects on the community was a privilege,” says Moyett.
After discussing the various SWAT projects, clubs and opportunities, information was shared about minority group use of tobacco, menthol cigarette marketing, and tobacco related diseases and death rate disparities between races and ethnicities. Students participated in a scavenger hunt to match questions and answers related to tobacco facts and earned SWAT club swag for their participation. Read More
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Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee Becomes a First-Time Sponsor of the Okeechobee Youth Livestock Show
April 15, 2023
Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee is happy to begin a new partnership with the Okeechobee Youth Livestock Show (OYLS) for the year of 2023 by sponsoring this year’s event. OYLS runs concurrently each year in Okeechobee County with the annual fair. This allows thousands of residents to attend and support the initiatives of both organizations throughout the week of spring break.
To further our partnership, and help educate attendees, the Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee County choose to become a 2023 Sponsor. Representatives from the TFP and SWAT Youth Ambassadors were present and had the opportunity to network, interact, and educate with attendees one-on-one within the arena.
This event gave the Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee County and SWAT Youth the opportunity to reach a very large crowd where tobacco use is a social norm. It provided members the chance to better educate attendees on the initiatives and goals of the TFP, as well as share Quit Your Way information.
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THE OKEECHOBEE YOUTH LIVESTOCK SHOW, INC. is a not-for-profit organization seeking to promote and educate the young people of Okeechobee County, primarily in the field of agriculture and community development, since 1969. The foundation of our organization is our annual Livestock Show and Sale held at the Okeechobee Agri-Civic Center in March of every year. This weeklong event is full of livestock show activities and culminates on the third Saturday of March with a livestock auction. The participants, approximately 300 students from 5 to 18 years old, are local youth who proudly show the animals they have raised as an Okeechobee 4-H or FFA project. Upon entry to the show, the animals are on display for the patrons of the Okeechobee County Fair to enjoy throughout the week. The students exhibit their rabbits, poultry, goats, beef breeding cattle, steers, swine, and dairy cattle for the coveted title of Grand Champion. In addition, the exhibitors also compete in a showmanship contest and a herdsman competition. Read More |
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Okeechobee Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) Youth Participate in Park Cleanup
April 1, 2023
Recently, Okeechobee SWAT Club planned, organized, and completed a multi-park clean up focused on tobacco litter and to bring awareness of the importance of tobacco free park policies.
Club members split into 2 groups and met at parks across Okeechobee County to pick up litter in order to beautify our public spaces. While the crews focused on tobacco litter, i.e., cigarette butts, cigarillo wrappers and plastic mouthpieces, disposable vapes, etc., they were encouraged to pick up all trash found in the area.
Students were surprised at how much tobacco litter is present in our parks and playgrounds, and this was an excellent opportunity for them to witness tobacco's harmful effects on our environment. The project was so well received, the SWAT Club members are planning an additional clean up before the end of the school year.
SWAT (Students Working Against Tobacco) Club is Florida's statewide youth organization working to mobilize, educate and equip Florida youth to revolt against and de-glamorize Big Tobacco. SWAT is a united movement of empowered youth working towards a tobacco-free future. Maybe you’re asking yourself, what does our club do in our community? SWAT works to change the social norms associated with tobacco. This means we want to change the way people think about tobacco… making it less desirable, less acceptable, and less accessible. We do this by advocating for changes in local policies that affect how tobacco is marketed, how it is sold, and where it can be used. SWAT members can expect to participate in a wide range of activities including community education and outreach, public speaking, collecting data, and media advocacy.
For more information on local youth tobacco prevention efforts, visit www.swatflorida.com or contact Courtney Moyett at CMoyett@QuitDoc.com.
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Okeechobee County Students Working Against Tobacco Attend Local Legislative Delegation Meeting
February 1, 2023
On February 1, 2023, Okeechobee County SWAT (Students Working Against Tobacco) youth were honored to speak about education and prevention of tobacco use within the local community during the Okeechobee County Legislative Delegation meeting.
As the youngest presenter at the meeting, community-based club president, Hannah O’Neal gave information on the dangers of tobacco use and importance of early prevention within the youth. Amairani Hernandez, a member of the Okeechobee High School club, spoke about the importance of tobacco free parks and gave a personal testimony on the negative impacts vaping has had on a young member of her family.
Representative Kaylee Tuck, a former member of her local SWAT club, along with Senator Grall and the other meeting attendees were impressed with the information presented as well as the professionalism of the SWAT members.
SWAT aims to empower, educate, and equip Florida youth to revolt against Big Tobacco. SWAT is a movement of empowered youth working together to de-glamorize tobacco use. Their efforts aim to shape tobacco-free norms, make tobacco less desirable, less acceptable, and less accessible! For more information on local youth tobacco prevention efforts, visit www.swatflorida.com or email Tobacco Prevention Specialist Alex Tijerina at ATijerina@QuitDoc.com.
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Okeechobee SWAT Chapter Celebrates Not A Lab Rat Day
October 19, 2022
On October 19th, 2022, Okeechobee SWAT Clubs celebrated Not a Lab Rat Day (NALR). Not A Lab Rat Day was designed to bring awareness to e-cigarette use among youth, encourage youth to stand up against Big Tobacco and the e-cigarette industry, and to push for change within their communities.
Okeechobee High School participated in a Lab Rat Scavenger Hunt, answering questions, and winning prizes. Additionally, youth completed NALR statements that showcased what they are rather than becoming Big Tobacco's generation of lab rats. Yearling Middle School created posters and decorated the halls with information about the dangers of vaping. Osceola Middle Schools recorded vaping facts to share school-wide.
SWAT aims to empower, educate and equip Florida youth to revolt against Big Tobacco. SWAT is a movement of empowered youth working together to de-glamorize tobacco use. Their efforts aim to shape tobacco-free norms, make tobacco less desirable, less acceptable, and less accessible! For more information on local youth tobacco prevention efforts, visit www.swatflorida.com or contact Courtney Moyett, Okeechobee County's Tobacco Program Manager, at CMoyett@QuitDoc.com.
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Okeechobee SWAT Welcomes Two New Advisors!
October 1, 2022
The Okeechobee County Students Working Agaist Tobacco (SWAT) Chapter has two new SWAT Advisors for the 2022-2023 school year! We are pleased to introduce these new youth leaders.
Yearling Middle School
| Born and raised in Jamaica, Ms. Saleem Johnson has been a teacher for 10 years and joined Okeechobee County in 2021. She is an exchange teacher currently in her second year. She has taught numerous grades at the Green Island Primary school in Jamaica where she was the Health and Family Life Education (HFLE) coordinator at her school. She currently teaches 6th English Language Arts (ELA) at Yearling Middle School. From a tender age, she fell in love with books and she is currently the sponsor for the Step Up Literacy Club at Yearling Middle School. She holds a bachelors in Language Education-Literacy Studies. Ms. Johnson is an enthusiastic and vibrant teacher and she is excited to lead the YMS SWAT Club and encourages all students to join the club and be educated about BIG Tobacco. |  |
Osceola Middle School
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Mr. Eric Degbor was born and raised in Ghana, a beautiful county in Western Sub Sahara Africa. After high school, Mr. Degbor studied at St. Francis College of Education, training as a teacher of Science and Mathematics. He transferred to the University of Education, Winneba Ghana where he graduated with a Bachelors of Education in Mathematics and a minor in Information Technology. After several years of teaching, he additionally earned a post-graduate certificate in Managment Information Systems and a Masters of Educational Leadership and Managment from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration GIMPA and University of Ghana respectively. Combined, Mr. Degbor has over 22 years of teaching experience. Read More |
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Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) Club Participates in Club Rush
September 8, 2022
On September 8th, 2022, Okeechobee High School S.W.A.T. club members participated in Club Rush. This school-sponsored event is an opportunity for clubs to showcase what is in store for membership during the school year.
Okeechobee S.W.A.T. youth focused their booth on their service to the community and ability to affect change on a state level. They displayed photos of past events and brochures, offered giveaways, and encouraged other students to join. Okeechobee High School S.W.A.T. club is excited to begin another year of fun, education, and service!
SWAT aims to empower, educate and equip Florida youth to revolt against Big Tobacco. SWAT is a movement of empowered youth working together to de-glamorize tobacco use. Their efforts aim to shape tobacco-free norms, make tobacco less desirable, less acceptable, and less accessible! For more information on local youth tobacco prevention efforts, visit www.swatflorida.com or contact Courtney Moyett, Okeechobee County's Tobacco Program Manager, at CMoyett@QuitDoc.com.
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Operation Dark Vapor in Okeechobee County
August 24, 2022
On August 24, 2022, Corporal Jack Nash from the Okeechobee County Sheriff Office (OCSO), made a presentation to the attendees of the Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee about a recent project that members of the Okeechobee Narcotics Task Force conducted to combat the sale of E-Cigarette’s/Vape pens to underage minors.
Cpl. Nash spoke about “Operation Dark Vapor” which was an undercover operation that focused on the sale of Electronic Vape Product’s (EVPs) to underage minors from retailers in Okeechobee County. Cpl. Nash spoke about the ways that Big Tobacco targets the youth with their deceptive marketing and which stores were in violation for selling to minors. Cpl. Nash said that this was a collaborative effort between the Sheriff’s Office and the City of Okeechobee Police Department, and they together were able to target 10 stores and issue several criminal summons for the violation of sale to minors. Cpl. Nash said this is just one small step in the mission to help our youth not become lifetime customers of Big Tobacco. Read More
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Tobacco Program Manager Honored as Prevention Hero
May 3, 2022
On May 3rd, 2022, Tobacco Program Manager, Courtney Moyett, was presented with the award for Okeechobee's Prevention Hero. This honor was bestowed by the Executive Director of Our Village of Okeechobee, Leah Suarez, as they geared up for Mental Health Awareness Month and National Prevention Week. During Mental Health Awareness Month, Our Village of Okeechobee recognized 5 members of the community for their work in the area of mental health.
Ms. Moyett was chosen due to her tireless work in the space of youth tobacco prevention and her continuous championing of mental health awareness in Okeechobee County. Ms. Suarez shared, "When it came to choosing a Prevention Hero for Okeechobee, it was actually very easy. Courtney is the voice of prevention in our community. She has worked with thousands of kids to teach them the danger of tobacco. She is creative, and her spirit resonates with all those she meets. We were so happy to name her our first Prevention Hero." Read More
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Providers and SWAT Youth Conduct Local Store Audits
April 20, 2022
Okeechobee County Tobacco Program staff were tasked with completing Tobacco Retailer Audits in over several months this spring. In an attempt to educate SWAT youth about marketing tactics employed by Big Tobacco at the point of sale, Provider staff provided training and invited SWAT youth to participate in the store audits.
Staff were accompanied by five SWAT members and surveyed several stores. The assigned audits took place at an array of retailers including convenience stores, pawn shops, and pharmacies. Staff and SWAT youth were tasked with answering many questions about tobacco marketing displays, products, and pricing. This was an excellent opportunity to engage local young people and continue education related to nicotine marketing. While completing audits, surveyors found Electronic Vapor Products in reach of children and nicotine products marketed within inches of candy and toys. |
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SWAT aims to empower, educate and equip Florida youth to revolt against Big Tobacco.
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Members of Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) Present to The Okeechobee County School Board
April 12, 2022
On April 12, 2022, SWAT Club members Lizbeth Soriano and Melany Anton were invited to present to Okeechobee County School Board members on topics related to tobacco prevention in schools.
While they gave an overview of the types of activities and projects SWAT club members have participated in during the school year, the presentation focused on tobacco education as an alternative to suspension for tobacco infractions. Currently in Okeechobee County, the only discipline available to students found to be in possession of nicotine products on school property is suspension. Since suspension and expulsion do not address the issue of addiction, SWAT club members asked school board members to consider instituting the free Tobacco Prevention Program sponsored by the Florida Department of Health. Read More
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Tobacco Free Partnership Members Participate in Health and Safety Expo
April 1, 2022
On March 26th, 2022, the Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee County (TFP) participated in the 15th Annual Health and Safety Expo. The purpose of the Health and Safety Expo is to educate Okeechobee County residents about the different private and non-profit organizations available locally to assist with healthcare and safety.
There were over 50 organizations in attendance. The TFP hosted an informational booth with games and prizes. SWAT youth assisted with “Activity Jenga” and gave out stress balls to participants. TFP volunteers were at the booth to educate expo attendees about the purpose of the partnership and give out "Quit Your Way" resources. The Health and Safety Expo was attended by over 1500 people from Okeechobee County.
The Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee County is dedicated to the creation of tobacco-free social norms through a combination of community education, youth advocacy and changes in local tobacco policies. The mission of the Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee County reflects the goals of the CDC Best Practices, especially in regard to changes in local tobacco policies to create and promote tobacco-free social norms.
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Tobacco Free Partnership Presents at Rotary
February 1, 2022
On February 1st, 2022, Tobacco Program Manager Courtney Moyett and Tobacco Prevention Specialist Holly Mixon were invited to present at the Rotary Club of Okeechobee. Mixon and Moyett presented several policy areas of the local tobacco program but focused mainly on SWAT club activities and Tobacco Free Schools efforts. This was an excellent opportunity to introduce community members and stakeholders to the work towards tobacco free policies happening in their county. Rotarians were invited to the next Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee County if they wish to take a more active role in tobacco prevention and education locally. |
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The Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee County is dedicated to the creation of tobacco-free social norms through a combination of community education, youth advocacy and changes in local tobacco policies. The mission of the Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee County reflects the goals of the CDC Best Practices, especially in regard to changes in local tobacco policies to create and promote tobacco-free social norms.
The Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee County is facilitated by the QuitDoc Foundation. Learn more at www.quitdoc.com. To learn more about the partnership or to get involved, visit: tfp-okeechobee.org or email Tobacco Prevention Specialist Holly Mixon at hmixon@quitdoc.com.
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Okeechobee SWAT Club Cleans Local Parks!
January 29, 2022
On January 29th, 2022, Okeechobee SWAT Club planned, organized, and completed a multi-park clean up focused on tobacco litter. Over 20 students participated in the project.
Club members split into 2 groups and met at parks across Okeechobee County to pick up litter in order to beautify our public spaces. While the crews focused on tobacco litter, i.e., cigarette butts, cigarillo wrappers and plastic mouthpieces, disposable vapes, etc., they were encouraged to pick up all trash found in the area.
Students were surprised at how much tobacco litter is present in our parks and playgrounds, and this was an excellent opportunity for them to witness tobacco's harmful effects on our environment. The project was so well received, the SWAT Club members are planning an additional clean up before the end of the school year. Read More
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Okeechobee High School SWAT Club Rings Bell for Salvation Army
January 2, 2022
Okeechobee High School SWAT (Students Working Against Tobacco) club wanted to find a way to serve their community during this Holiday season and thought what better way to give back then to ring the bell for Salvation Army.
16 students, and one grumpy Grinch rang the bell at our local Publix and raised approximately $1,600 for the local Salvation Army. The students dressed in their SWAT club shirts which gave them an opportunity to speak to customers about the mission and goals of the SWAT club.
SWAT aims to empower, educate and equip Florida youth to revolt against Big Tobacco. SWAT is a movement of empowered youth working together to de-glamorize tobacco use. Their efforts aim to shape tobacco-free norms, make tobacco less desirable, less acceptable, and less accessible!
For more information on local youth tobacco prevention efforts, visit www.swatflorida.comor contact Courtney Moyett, Okeechobee County's Tobacco Program Manager, at CMoyett@QuitDoc.com.
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Okeechobee High School SWAT Club Participates in Santa in the Park
January 1, 2022
The Okeechobee High School SWAT (Students Working Against Tobacco) Club partnered with the Kiwanis Club of Okeechobee and participated in the yearly tradition of Santa in the Park.
Each year, residents of Okeechobee can come out to City Park over the span of 7 days and have their pictures taken with Santa and speak to Santa about their Christmas wishes. This year the SWAT club sponsored this event in order to allow more interaction with the youth and adults in attendance. The students dressed in their SWAT club shirts which gave them an opportunity to speak to attendees about the mission and goals of the SWAT club. SWAT aims to empower, educate, and equip Florida youth to revolt against Big Tobacco. SWAT is a movement of empowered youth working together to de-glamorize tobacco use. Their efforts aim to shape tobacco-free norms, make tobacco less desirable, less acceptable, and less accessible. |
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For more information on local youth tobacco prevention efforts, visit www.swatflorida.comor contact Courtney Moyett, Okeechobee County's Tobacco Program Manager, at CMoyett@QuitDoc.com.
