Jasmine Hooper shares how Dunwoody is tackling public health challenges. Learn how the city’s collaboration with the American Heart Association is closing smoking loopholes, protecting residents, and stopping the growth of hookah lounges. Find out how you can help keep Dunwoody clean and healthy.
Advocating for a Healthier Dunwoody: A Conversation with Jasmine Hooper
On this episode of What’s Up Dunwoody, hosted by Matt Weber and brought to you by Dr. Bret Freedman with Village Orthodontics, we welcome Jasmine Hooper from the American Heart Association. As a health advocate, Jasmine discusses her work in Dunwoody and beyond, focusing on initiatives to improve public health through proactive policy changes. Dive into this engaging conversation to discover how Jasmine is helping make Dunwoody a cleaner, healthier place to live.
Jasmine Hooper’s Journey to the American Heart Association
Jasmine Hooper joined the American Heart Association in 2022, driven by her passion for health and wellness. She works closely with city officials, county commissioners, and other policymakers to pass laws that protect and promote public health. Jasmine’s efforts extend across Georgia, including a special connection to Dunwoody, where she once lived. Her advocacy aims to create healthier environments for everyone, particularly by addressing tobacco use and secondhand smoke.
The Importance of Public Health Policy in Dunwoody
Dunwoody’s proactive City Council has partnered with the American Heart Association to address concerns about tobacco and vape usage in the city. Jasmine highlights how the council’s commitment to public health inspired them to reach out to the American Heart Association. Their collaboration focuses on updating policies to protect residents from secondhand smoke, particularly from vape products and hookah establishments.
The Hidden Dangers of Hookah and Vaping
During the conversation, Jasmine sheds light on the lesser-known health risks associated with hookah and vaping. She explains that one hour of hookah exposure equates to smoking 100 cigarettes—a shocking statistic that underscores the need for regulation. Vape products, often marketed as safer alternatives to smoking, have created new challenges for public health. Jasmine’s efforts in Dunwoody aim to address these risks through education and policy.
Dunwoody’s Role as a Leader in Public Health Advocacy
Jasmine praises Dunwoody’s leadership in public health initiatives. The city’s willingness to engage with the American Heart Association and implement forward-thinking policies sets an example for other municipalities. By taking proactive measures, Dunwoody is not only protecting current residents but also enhancing its appeal for those considering moving to Dunwoody.
Understanding Loopholes in Georgia’s Clean Indoor Air Act
Jasmine explains a significant loophole in Georgia’s Clean Indoor Air Act, which allows businesses that generate 50% or more of their revenue from alcohol sales to permit indoor smoking. This loophole poses risks to public health, particularly in establishments frequented by younger audiences. Jasmine emphasizes the importance of closing such loopholes to create a safer environment for everyone living in Dunwoody.
Community Engagement and Education
Jasmine encourages Dunwoody residents to get involved by contacting their city council members and Mayor Lynn Deutsch. She shares her appreciation for Dunwoody’s engaged community, noting that public support is crucial for enacting meaningful change. Residents can attend city council meetings, write to local officials, and participate in discussions about public health.
Dunwoody’s Unique Challenges and Opportunities
While Dunwoody currently has few establishments that allow indoor smoking, Jasmine warns against complacency. The presence of even one hookah lounge can attract others, potentially changing the city’s landscape. By acting proactively, Dunwoody can prevent these issues and maintain its reputation as a family-friendly community—a key consideration for those living in Dunwoody.
Collaborative Efforts with DeKalb County
The American Heart Association is also working with DeKalb County to update its public health policies. Jasmine highlights the importance of aligning city and county efforts to address contemporary issues like vaping and hookah use. While Dunwoody last updated its smoking laws in 2019, DeKalb County’s policies date back to 2012, underscoring the need for continued advocacy.
How Dunwoody Residents Can Make a Difference
Jasmine encourages listeners to take action by reaching out to local officials, attending city council meetings, and staying informed about public health issues. She provides contact information for Mayor Lynn Deutsch and emphasizes the power of community voices in shaping Dunwoody’s future. By supporting initiatives that prioritize health and wellness, residents can help create a safer, cleaner environment for everyone.
The Broader Impact of Health Advocacy in Dunwoody
Through her work with the American Heart Association, Jasmine Hooper is making a tangible difference in Dunwoody and beyond. Her efforts not only address immediate public health concerns but also contribute to the city’s long-term appeal. By fostering a healthier community, Dunwoody continues to attract families and individuals moving to Dunwoody who value a high quality of life.
Closing Thoughts
This episode of What’s Up Dunwoody highlights the vital role of public health advocacy in shaping a thriving community. Jasmine Hooper’s dedication to creating a cleaner, healthier Dunwoody serves as an inspiration for residents and policymakers alike. As Matt Weber and Jasmine discuss, small steps—like updating local policies and raising awareness—can lead to significant positive change. Together, Dunwoody’s engaged residents and proactive leadership are building a brighter future for the city.
