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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Smokers Urged To Take Up Chew

It was backhanded character assassination of the worst kind: Defending himself in a tobacco suit deposition, a top industry honcho declared a cigarette is no more addictive than a Gummy Bear.

Momentarily stunned, the sweet chewy candy is fighting back. Companies that crank out the little critters are teaming up with anti-smoking groups this weekend for a campaign called - what else? - “Bears for Butts.”

At events around the state, anyone turning in their smokes will get free cessation counseling, tips on avoiding secondhand smoke - and Gummy Bears. One package of rubbery pint-size mammals per person.