Recently, I had the pleasure of attending a drug program at Opp Middle School to take pictures and write an article for the Opp News. For those of you who don’t know what the program was about, I’m going to give you the lowdown.
The Drug Task Force agents along with Andalusia and Opp Police Departments, the Covington County Sheriff’s Office, and a local business (whom I can’t name for political reasons, but I’m sure people will figure it out as I go on) were responsible for putting together Kids Against Prescription Pills (K.A.P.P.).
This program is such a great opportunity for DTF agents to go to county schools and talk to middle schoolers about prescription drug addiction.
The first location I went to yesterday afternoon was devoted to facts. Straight up, cold, hard facts about what prescription drugs can do to a person – emotionally and physically. The kids were able to answer questions about what DTF agent David Harrell spoke on during his part of the program.
The second location was for speakers, Connie Messick and Lori Rickett, who were able to give students a first hand account of drug addiction. Connie was tearful as she told students about stealing from her son’s bank account just to get her prescription drug fix. She told the kids that she could no longer be a nurse and she couldn’t drive – and those were just two things that were as a result of her addiction.
Local radio celebrity, Blaine Wilson and local attorney and former University of Alabama football player, Corey Bryan spoke at the last location. They pushed the fact that the kids could be like them and do well without having to resort to taking drugs to get a high. They could be high on life and be successful just like these two guys have been.
I’m just so proud that our schools are concerned about the problem of prescription drugs. Yes, there have been some problems here – actually one resulting in an arrest here in Opp if memory serves. I believe these kids heard the message that was being drilled home yesterday. Assistant Principal, Shawn Short told me that several of the kids had tears after hearing Connie and Lori speak about their lives.
I’m proud that there are people (who shall remain nameless) who will look out for the best interests of our children.
This person, who I cannot name has been instrumental in putting together several of the drug programs in this county. I know he will keep striving to do what is best for the good of Covington County as he runs for office.
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