GOSHEN – Educators, officials, community members, families, and other supporters gathered at Orange County’s Emergency Services Center on Friday for a special ceremony celebrating the contributions of local students recognized in The Alcohol & Drug Awareness Council of Orange County’s annual contest.
Several speakers applauded the excellence of student artwork and essays addressing this year’s contest theme, “Picture Your Future Through a Drug-Free Lens.” Lauren Savino, program educator for partnering STOP DWI, praised the creativity, courage, and power of students in helping to promote positive choices.
ADAC Executive Director Mary Alice Kovatch recalled the lasting connection formed between ADAC and student participants during nearly four decades of offering this contest.
“Some of the former students are now designers, authors, and even judges for this contest. One, a past Grand Prize winner, is now an art teacher in Port Jervis. One winner from last year is featured on a Family Treatment Court guide for families who are going through treatment,” Kovatch shared.
Kovatch praised Orange County educators for continuing to “make the decision to bring this topic and conversation to all young people in their charge” and for offering the opportunity for students to express themselves and address this topic.
As students participate, Kovatch urged them to understand that the effort they put into their artwork and essays truly makes a difference to the people who struggle with substance issues.
“Even though people sometimes think that they are struggling alone, there’s always someone who has understood that. This really shows them that we’re all in this together,” Kovatch said.
Many Orange County officials were on hand to support ADAC, students, educators, and families, including O.C. Executive Steve Neuhaus, Sheriff Paul Arteta, and Emergency Services Commissioner Peter Cirigliano, among others.
Neuhaus spoke as an official and as a father, noting that the students’ artwork and essays were amazing. He said as some students prepare to graduate – and others get ready for summer vacation – all anyone wants for them is to achieve their goals and dreams, and to have happy lives.
“The only thing that will prevent you from doing this is getting hooked on drugs. It’s very simple – just don’t get into it to begin with,” Neuhaus urged. “We are partnering with many agencies to take care of each other. I wish each of you a great summer. Be proud.”
Neuhaus advised that if anyone is ever in need of help, and not sure who to call, Orange County has a 3-1-1 phone number to reach out to for advice. He said 9-1-1 is for emergencies, and 3-1-1 operators are located beside that division to help with non-emergency information or connections.
Arabia Shearn, ADAC Contest Coordinator, announced winners in various categories, giving each student a chance to shake hands with ADAC officials, cross the stage, stop for a photo, and receive applause for their winning work.