News and Events

A Legacy of Tobacco-Free Progress in Dixie County
May 6, 2026

The Tobacco Free Partnership of Dixie County, established in 2009, has played a vital role in advancing public health across the community. Originally convened by the QuitDoc Research and Education Foundation, the partnership held quarterly meetings and was led by its first chairwoman, Charolette Lord, who helped build a strong and lasting foundation for leadership and advocacy.

From its early years, the partnership worked closely with Dixie County Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) to promote tobacco-free policies. These efforts led to numerous local businesses and organizations adopting tobacco-free environments, helping protect employees and residents from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.

Over the years, the partnership has supported significant policy advancements. In 2011, Dixie County and the Town of Cross City adopted measures restricting the sale of flavored tobacco products not covered by the FDA, along with an ordinance prohibiting the placement, sale, and display of candy-flavored tobacco products that appeal to minors.

Momentum continued in 2017 when the Dixie County Commissioners passed a resolution supporting tobacco-free recreational and sports parks for all ages. That same year, Cross City Nursing and Rehab Center implemented a tobacco-free campus policy for patients, visitors, and staff.

In 2019, Dixie County strengthened protections for youth by adopting a zoning ordinance restricting the sale of tobacco within 1,000 feet of all schools. Additionally, the Dixie Horseman’s Association established a tobacco-free venue policy and prohibited tobacco industry advertising.

More recent achievements include the 2023 adoption and implementation of a Tobacco-Free Schools Policy by the Dixie County School Board, alongside an amended parks ordinance prohibiting smoking at county parks and beaches. In 2024, the School Board further enhanced its policy by prohibiting the acceptance of gifts and curriculum from the tobacco industry, while the Cross City Town Council approved an ordinance banning tobacco and vape use in town parks.

Collaboration has been central to the partnership’s success. Over the years, members have worked alongside organizations such as the Dixie Anti-Drug Coalition, the Dixie County Health Department’s CHIPs Committee, and the Dixie County Chamber of Commerce to prevent tobacco and nicotine addiction. Together, they have focused on educating the community about the tobacco industry’s targeting of youth and the emergence of new nicotine products.

Strong leadership has guided these efforts. For the past decade, Lola Butler has served as chair, dedicating her time to strengthening partnerships, increasing awareness, and fostering collaboration. Since 2020, Amanda NesSmith has served as co-chair, championing initiatives such as the Tobacco-Free Parks and Beaches Policy and advocating before county commissioners for healthier community spaces.

The final meeting of the current Tobacco Free Partnership of Dixie County was held on May 4, 2026, at the Dixie County Public Library in Cross City. Attendees included Lola Butler (Chair), Amanda NesSmith (Co-Chair), Shelby Crawford (Hanley Foundation), Melanie Anderson (Tobacco Prevention Specialist), Christy Roberts (Dixie County Sheriff’s Office), and Jamie Alligood (Suwannee River AHEC). The meeting provided an opportunity to reflect on years of progress, celebrate collective achievements, and reaffirm a shared commitment to a tobacco-, smoke-, and vape-free Dixie County.

As the partnership concludes this chapter, its legacy of advocacy, policy change, and community collaboration will continue to shape a healthier future for Dixie County.