Senior Prevention Educator represents GCASA at annual 4th of July 'Picnic in the Park!'

This photo was published, along with the article "Many perks at GoArt!'s 'Picnic in the Park' this year, including author from Bethany," at 3:41 p.m. today on The Batavian.

Dick Lawrence, our new "Senior Spice" coordinator and senior citizen prevention educator, was at "Picnic in the Park," an annual event showcasing local organizations and providing 4th of July entertainment, yesterday.

Dick, who joined us last month, very generously volunteered to represent our organization at this event. From what I understand, he did a great job. A lot of information on our programs was disseminated. Way to go, Dick!

GCASA's Senior Spice program reaches out to seniors with chemical free dance

From The Daily News, 12/10/10:

BATAVIA — They were there to dance and socialize, but they welcomed the opportunity to gain a bit of knowledge just the same.


The occasion was the “All That Glitters Dinner Dance 2010” – an annual gathering of seniors sponsored by Senior Spice, a program of Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse.


This year’s holiday event was attended by about 90 people at the Batavia First Presbyterian Church’s community hall last Saturday.


“We are delighted to be able to offer this activity each year as a healthy substance-free social event,” said GCASA Prevention Educator Sue Hawley, dance chairperson. “It gives senior couples and friends an enjoyable night out and also provides a forum where we can deliver a brief educational message about drugs or alcohol.”

Senior drug abuse

I have always gotten a kick out of the fact that so many substance abuse prevention programs focus on kids while the elephant in the living room is the adult substance abuse. Here is a chart from SAMSHA which graphically portrays the problem.

I love Jesus, but I drink a little

Video lasts 6:52.

Ellen Degeneres talks with Gladys Hardy in Austin, TX. Gladys Hardy says "I love Jesus, but I drink a little." A little later on she says she doesn't like to travel because people make a big deal out of "listerine".

What do you think?