Smoke Free Movie Night

Thursday, 20 September 2018 16:12

UPDATE: The smoke free movie night is moving indoors.

UPDATE: Southwestern Public Health has decided to move the Smoke Free Movie Night indoors at Goff Hall tonight. All of the fun will get underway at 6:30 p.m.

WOODSTOCK - A Southwestern Public Health Youth Group called What the Health? is inviting families to another Smoke Free Movie night.

What the Health? will be hosting a free admission family movie on Friday, September 21st at Southside Park here in the friendly city. The Emoji Movie will be displayed on a inflatable screen near the skate park at the base of Southside Park. However, with a special weather statement issued for the 21st they have scheduled a rain day for next Friday with the same times. Keep it locked on to Heart FM or go to their social media accounts on Twitter and Facebook for more updates as an announcement will be made tomorrow at noon.

The 6th year in the annual smoke-free movie night in Woodstock is meant to bring up the issue of smoking imagery in youth rated movies. 86 per cent of movies in the last 10 years that were rated for the youth contained smoking related images. Youth Engagement Coordinator Michelle Alvey says While movies are known to influence the attitudes and behaviours of youth, smoking and tobacco products are still not considered when assessing movie ratings in Ontario.

"So what the Health Youth Group has been advocating for change in order to prevent a new generation for tobacco users is that, they are asking that all future movies rated for children and teens in Ontario be free from tobacco products and smoking images."

This outdoor event usually attracts hundreds of people, and includes family games, a photo booth and free popcorn prior to the screening. Execulink Telecom has also added VIP seating for one lucky family to win. Activities begin at 6:30 p.m., with the film starting at dusk, families are also encouraged to bring non-perishable food items.

What the Health? is also seeking volunteers ages 14-24 to help with this event. Each volunteer will receive a $25 gift card as well as volunteer hours.