COCHRANE, Alta. — There'll be no need for ashtrays in one Alberta town on the weekend if residents take up a retiring pharmacist's call for all smokers to butt out for 24 hours.
Kelly Kimmett persuaded the town of Cochrane, about 40 kilometres west of Calgary, to proclaim Saturday "Cochrane Quits Smoking Day"
Kimmett, who has served the community for 30 years, is hoping a day without tobacco could encourage some smokers to stop for good.
Cochrane officials say many smokers fail to quit because they try to do it alone, but could feel empowered if the whole town is behind them.
The mayor and council are asking non-smokers to show their support by refraining from their own vices such as soda pop, sugar or alcohol.
Things kick off Saturday with a pancake breakfast and registration, followed by presentations on programs and products to help smokers kick the habit.
People who attend the event will be entered to win an airline ticket, and will receive an extra entry for all full packages of tobacco they hand in.