By: Ashmar Mandou

Every day about 3,500 youth try a cigarette fort he first time. One-third of those will die early as a result of tobacco-related illnesses. Research shows that more than 19 percent of Hispanic youth smoke. Truth, the largest national grassroots smoking prevention campaign for youth, along with the Vans Warped Tour, will bring their message and orange “truth truck” and truth tour riders to Chicago as part of their national tour. The tour will take place on Saturday, July 19th at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre from 11a.m., to 6p.m.

Trucks will be complete with a DJ booth and sound system, a dance floor, a lounge area and more, in order to help tour riders share information about tobacco products with teens. Each city stop will feature an engaging atmosphere, including games, music, and contests, and ample opportunity for truth tour riders to discuss issues with teens in a fun and friendly environment. The truth tour reached an estimated two million teens and young adults last year. In Illinois, 17.5 percent of youth smoke. For more information, visit www.thetruth.com.