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NEWS
Antismoking Organization Launches Broad Campaign
by N. Katzin
An antismoking organization called Chaim Bri'im Kehalachoh
started by Rabbi Yechezkel Escheiyik, rabbonim and public
figures, has launched a broad campaign aimed at the chareidi
public -- and yeshiva students in particular -- through
advertisements, activities and the distribution of a special
edition of Chaim Lelo Ishun Al Pi HaTorah ("Life
Without Smoking According to the Torah"), which was
written and edited by Rabbi Escheiyik.
Designed to prevent young men from acquiring the habit of
smoking, the campaign includes the dissemination of a call
signed by gedolei Yisroel including HaRav Yosef Sholom
Eliashiv, shlita, which clearly states there is no
hetter to begin smoking and reminds smokers to try
their best to quit. The notice speaks of the great danger
inherent in smoking, saying "whoever can prevent himself and
others from smoking is obligated to do so" and "certainly one
may not smoke in public places."
The publication of the notice brought a great boost to the
antismoking campaign within the chareidi public. With the
support of gedolei Yisroel, Chaim Bri'im Kehalochoh
engaged in informative activities during bein hazmanim
at dozens of camps run by yeshivas, giving lectures and audio-
visual presentations. The heads of the organization are
currently distributing copies of Chaim Lelo Ishun to
rabbonim, ramim, mashgichim and maggidei
shiurim.
The organization is also working to distribute thousands of
printed notices of the ruling to be posted around the country
in addition to the notices printed in the chareidi press.
Organizers expressed hopes their activities will lead to a
reduction in smoking in the chareidi sector, especially by
preventing yeshiva students from starting.
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