Spit it Out!

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Victoria Hommel
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

"People turn to nicotine use for various reasons,” said Alicia Ferris-Dannenberg, 509th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron Health Promotion Program coordinator. “For many it is the false sense of happiness from the stimulation of dopamine.”

The Health Promotion Program teamed up with the 509th Force Support Squadron fitness center to organize the Great American Spit Out 5k race.

“The mission behind this race is to educate people about the harm of chewing tobacco,” said U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Shyenne Burden, 509th Force Support Squadron fitness center programs director. “We hope it encourages people to ‘Spit out the dip!’”

This race is also significant because it is the first race Whiteman has hosted this year.

“It is important that Team Whiteman starts running events again because they build togetherness, improve fitness, build resilience, and of course it is fun,” said Ferris-Dannenberg. “This 5k is one example of how exercise can make you feel better than nicotine.”

The Health Promotion program is located on the 2nd floor of the 509th Medical Clinic. The goal of the program is to improve the health of active duty military by focusing on physical activity, nutrition, sleep, and tobacco free living.

For questions and more information, contact the Health Promotion office at 660-697-1199.