In her new position as the Linn County Public Health Department’s tobacco prevention coordinator, Dani Crabtree will be able to combine two of her key interests — wellness and helping young people.
Crabtree, 41, started her new job the first week of April and comes to Linn County after several years with Samaritan Health Services, where she provided “My Chart” support for the group’s many clinics.
Before she launched a career in health services, Crabtree was in the newspaper business and worked at the Albany Democrat-Herald, where she was a news clerk and wrote for the Entertainer. At the Arizona Daily Sun, she was a design editor and desk editor and said she loved living in Flagstaff where she was close to seven national parks.
She also has a freelance editing business and has written two books of a planned four-book series.
Crabtree graduated from the University of Oregon with a degree in journalism in 2004 and recently earned a Master’s Degree in Public Health from Oregon State — graduating Summa Cum Laude.
“There were 300 applicants and 20 were selected,” Crabtree said. “Most of us had full-time jobs, plus it was during the COVID period. Although it was on-line, I met frequently with my instructors.”
Crabtree said she is focusing on “getting my feet under me” and is in the initial phase of building her program focused on reducing second-hand smoke and developing an outreach education program.
“I would like to see all public spaces go smoke-free,” Crabtree said. “I will also be collaborating with the Greater Albany Public Schools and working jointly with Alcohol & Drug.”
She also wants to educate young people about the health dangers associated with vaping. She said too many people believe vaping is safer than smoking cigarettes, but it isn’t.
Crabtree said she believes it is also important that the state get its marijuana laws in line with tobacco rules.
“Marijuana smoke is extremely carcinogenic,” she said.
Linn County tobacco cessation goals are:
— Create Tobacco-Free Environments;
— Prevent Tobacco Initiation among Youth and Young Adults
— Promote Cessation Services among Adults and Youth; and
— Identify and Eliminate Disparities in Tobacco Use
— Enforce Tobacco-Related Laws
Crabtree said her heart is with improving the lives of children, women and minorities, whether that is helping them work their way out of poverty or gaining easier access to fresh fruits and vegetables.
When she isn’t working (or going to school) Crabtree can be found hiking, especially what she calls “urban hiking” exploring trails and neighborhoods in Albany. Her Australian shepherd Patrick often accompanies her on the outings.
She is also remodeling her house and yard and is eyeing a third book. She also enjoys writing poetry.
– Alex Paul. Linn County Communications Officer