Teens Leave their Mark at NAPA in Lamar

What was once a bare north wall at NAPA Auto Parts, North Main in Lamar, has been covered with some welcomed graffiti (mural), the handiwork of representatives of #riseaboveColorado.  Promoting a drug free, healthy lifestyle for Colorado youngsters, the statewide organization came to Lamar to initiate a project for eleven communities in the state.

Two recent events were held in Lamar with a movie shown for area youth this past Tuesday, August 19 and a gathering north of the NAPA store on Thursday when the mural was officially presented.  Jonathon Judge, the Rise Above Colorado representative told the students they have some work ahead of them in the coming year, but it could bring rewards, along with a drug free lifestyle.

“We have facebook and a website the kids will log on to, posting pictures and updates about their activities through the year.  Lamar is our first stop and we’re going on to eleven other communities after this.”  Judge reminded them to use the hash tag with iriseabove or hash tag Lamar for their postings on twitter, instagram, tumbler and even on facebook.  The organization wants photos of the kids involved in any of their sporting events or any activity that promotes a healthier lifestyle.  The pictures will be sorted for all the competing communities and prizes are going to be awarded based on quality and quantity of the photos.

On the matter of drugs, Judge said, “We’re not out here tonight to preach to you, but be aware that 90% of most all addictions begin during your teen years.  You’ve got some great, positive things going on here and the more you can stay close to those as an individual and a community, the better off you’re going to be down the line.”

Lori Hammer, Executive Director or Project HOPE has been working with the group, as well as the local Drug Free Task Force.  Others in attendance during last night’s gathering included Lamar Mayor Roger Stagner, Commissioner Wendy Buxton-Andrade and Commissioner-Elect, Ron Cook, about 50 or 60 kids shooting selfies and mugging for the camera, members of the Lamar Police Department and the Pelley’s from NAPA.  The campaign officially kicks off in September.

By Russ Baldwin