2001 News (Archive)
Celebrating the Holidays — Tips for Organizing Alcohol-safe and Drug-free Parties
December 7, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Alcohol is often a big part of holiday celebrations. In fact, the percentage of alcohol- and drug-related driving crashes typically increases during this time of the year. However, communities, families, offices and students across the country are challenging this norm. Many people are coming to the realization that alcohol should not be the main attraction at holiday parties, and there are ways to organize fun, yet safe, festivities that will prevent family and friends from becoming the next alcohol- or drug-related statistic.
Governor Hodges, DAODAS Award Funds to Local Programs
November 15, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Nineteen local initiatives in South Carolina will share in more than $2 million in funding provided through the Governor’s Cooperative Agreement for Prevention (G-CAP) grants, which were awarded by Governor Jim Hodges today in the Lower Rotunda at the South Carolina State House.
Message In Our Music Project 2001 – Grand Finale Showcase
October 12, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. – October 13, 2001 - The top three finalists from each of three regional competitions will perform their original hip-hop and rap songs with positive lyrics during the Grand Finale Showcase of the "Message In Our Music Project 2001" on Saturday, October 13, at 7 p.m. A highlight of the showcase will be a performance by hot new R&B Group Prophet Jones(“Woof”).
SC Coaches Urge Kids to “Do the Right Thing” on TV Commercials
October 10, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. – October 8, 2001 – Today the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) introduced its newest public service campaign during a news conference. The campaign, titled “Do the Right Thing,” features South Carolina college football coaches and players discussing the importance of good decision making and the dangers of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.
South Carolina Celebrates Addiction Recovery Month
August 31, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Jim Hodges has joined with the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) to proclaim September as Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month in South Carolina. During the month of September, communities statewide are encouraged to join together to help people with alcohol and other drug abuse problems, their families and friends gain access to treatment services in an effort to heal themselves and the communities in which they live.
“We Recover Together: Family, Friends and Community”
August 31, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. - When Mary’s husband of 46 years died, she experienced all of the emptiness, pain and loneliness associated with the loss of a spouse. But when her sister, whom she had depended on for support, died soon after, she began to feel that her life had become an endless series of losses. It was then that she turned to Valium as an escape from the pain she was feeling.
DAODAS Awards Federal Funds to Local Programs
July 18, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Thirty-one local initiatives in South Carolina will share in more than $1,226,000 in funding provided through the federal Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act for fiscal year 2002.
Underage Drinking Task Force Releases Recommendations
May 24, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. – The South Carolina Task Force on Underage Drinking released its recommendations for resolving problems resulting from the use of alcoholic beverages by South Carolina youth under the age of 21 during a news conference held today at the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS).
DAODAS Highlights Annual Tobacco Study
May 17, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. – The South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) today released the results of the 2001 Youth Access to Tobacco Study, the eighth annual study to determine the extent of the problem of underage access to cigarettes in South Carolina.
Project to battle negative messages in popular music
March 26, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. – To counter the negative messages young people receive about alcohol and other drugs in today’s popular music, a new prevention program launched today will give aspiring young hip-hop and rap artists the opportunity to shine.
DAODAS to host youth rally at W.C. Hawkins Stadium
March 14, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. -- A youth anti-drug rally will be held Thursday, March 22, at W.C. Hawkins Stadium on the campus of Irmo High School. The youth rally, titled "Protecting Our Future," is open to all area middle and high school students.
State agency to host teleconference on drugs in the workplace
February 2, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. -- The South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) invites companies and business associations to participate in a teleconference on drugs in the workplace on Thursday, February 22, in the DAODAS Education and Training Center, located at 101 Business Park Boulevard in Columbia. Registration will begin at 12:45 p.m. with the telecast following from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Agency not surprised by high rates of substance abuse among teens
January 29, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. -- A recently released school survey on youth alcohol, tobacco and other drug use in Lexington/Richland School District 5 is consistent with statewide data on youth substance abuse, said Rick Wade, director of the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS).
Television Commercial to Target Underage Drinking
January 3, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. - Tonight, the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) will be filming the third in a series of television public service announcements (PSA) about underage drinking. The PSA campaign, titled "So Are We," focuses on the role of state and local law enforcement in enforcing underage drinking laws in South Carolina. The new PSA will begin airing throughout South Carolina in February.
Celebrating the Holidays — Tips for Organizing Alcohol-safe and Drug-free Parties
December 7, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Alcohol is often a big part of holiday celebrations. In fact, the percentage of alcohol- and drug-related driving crashes typically increases during this time of the year. However, communities, families, offices and students across the country are challenging this norm. Many people are coming to the realization that alcohol should not be the main attraction at holiday parties, and there are ways to organize fun, yet safe, festivities that will prevent family and friends from becoming the next alcohol- or drug-related statistic.
According to experts on responsible hosting, simple precautionary steps can help ensure your guests' safety both during and after the celebration. Here are some recommendations for alcohol-safe and drug-free events:
Get the Party Started
Governor Hodges, DAODAS Award Funds to Local Programs
November 15, 2001
~Governor’s Cooperative Agreement for Prevention Grants Funded Across South Carolina~
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Nineteen local initiatives in South Carolina will share in more than $2 million in funding provided through the Governor’s Cooperative Agreement for Prevention (G-CAP) grants, which were awarded by Governor Jim Hodges today in the Lower Rotunda at the South Carolina State House.
The South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) administers the Governor’s portion of these funds allocated to South Carolina through the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention. Through this effort, grants are awarded each year to community organizations for programs which are aimed at reducing substance abuse among young people ages 12-17. Awardees were chosen after a rigorous review process involving certified grant reviewers with experience in the substance abuse field.
“On any given day, more than 60,000 kids ages 12-17 in South Carolina are experiencing substance abuse problems that warrant treatment,” said Governor Jim Hodges. “It’s so important to reach kids during their teenage years and talk with them and help them make healthy decisions about alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.”
The G-CAP initiative is working to change systems that provide prevention services on both the state and the community levels. On the state level, the Governor’s Council for Substance Abuse Prevention has developed a set of statewide prevention strategies and will continue to work in collaboration with statewide systems.
On the local level, today’s awards will enable coalitions to implement a community plan for evidence-based prevention based on unmet needs in that area and address systemic change.
“In order to stop the cycle of abuse in South Carolina, we must prevent people from ever becoming addicted to alcohol, tobacco and other drugs,” stated Rick C. Wade, director of DAODAS. “Today’s awards are a first step in the process of breaking that cycle by creating a consistent, statewide system for delivering substance abuse prevention to South Carolinians.”
DAODAS is the cabinet-level agency charged with ensuring the provision of quality services to prevent or reduce the negative consequences of substance use and addictions.
G-CAP Community Coalition Award Recipients
Anderson Three Community Coalition
226 McGee Road
Anderson, South Carolina 29625
Telephone: (864) 260-4168
Project Supervisor: Anne Ouzts
Bamberg County Prevention Partners
Post Office Box 345
Denmark, South Carolina 29042
Telephone: (803) 793-2030
Project Supervisor: E. Michelle Nimmons
Barnwell County Human Services Coordinating Council
1644 Jackson Street
Barnwell, South Carolina 29812
Telephone: (803) 541-1245
Project Supervisor: Pamela Rush
Charleston Coalition for Youth
5 Charleston Center Drive
Charleston, South Carolina 29401
Telephone: (843) 720-5391
Project Supervisor: Gregory Taylor
Cheraw Coalition of Substance Abuse Prevention
Post Office Box 27
Cheraw, South Carolina 29520
Telephone: (843) 921-2002
Project Supervisor: Sara Ann Thompson
Clinton Drug-Free Youth Coalition
Post Office Box 843
Laurens, South Carolina 29360
Telephone: (864) 833-6500
Project Supervisor: Charlotte Ehney
Community Round Table of Chapin
Post Office Box 50597
Columbia, South Carolina 29250
Telephone: (803) 733-1390
Project Supervisor: Deborah Early
Community Round Table of Irmo/Dutch Fork
Post Office Box 50597
Columbia, South Carolina 29250
Telephone: (803) 733-1390
Project Supervisor: Deborah Early
Comprehensive Prevention Coalition
500 North Main Street, Suite 4
Summerville, South Carolina 29483
Telephone: (843) 821-0034
Project Supervisor: Jan Oglietti
Florence Community Coalition for Substance Abuse Prevention
Post Office Box 6196
Florence, South Carolina 29502
Telephone: (843) 665-9349
Project Supervisor: Dawn Hancock
Georgetown Community Prevention Coalition
1423 Winyah Street
Georgetown, South Carolina 29440
Telephone: (843) 546-6081
Project Supervisor: Darlene Williams
Greenville Safe Communities Drug-Free Alliance
Post Office Box 10203
Greenville, South Carolina 29603
Telephone: (864) 467-4099
Project Supervisor: Carol Reeves
Greenwood ACORE/CORA Coalition
158 East Cambridge Avenue
Greenwood, South Carolina 29646
Telephone: (864) 229-1072
Project Supervisor: Ann Crawley
Lake City Community Coalition for Substance Abuse Prevention
Post Office Box 6196
Florence, South Carolina 29502
Telephone: (843) 669-8087
Project Supervisor: Shirley Corbett
Pageland Coalition of Substance Abuse Prevention
Post Office Box 27
Cheraw, South Carolina 29520
Telephone: (843) 921-2002
Project Supervisor: Sara Ann Thompson
Sheldon Township Community Support Partnership
Post Office Box 311
Beaufort, South Carolina 29901
Telephone: (843) 470-4542
Project Supervisor: Richard Vallandingham
Substance Abuse-Free Environment Team of Aiken County
1105 Gregg Highway
Aiken, South Carolina 29801
Telephone: (803) 649-1900
Project Supervisor: Helen B. Richard
The Edisto Health Coalition
Post Office Box 1166
Orangeburg, South Carolina 29116
Telephone: (803) 536-4900
Project Supervisor: Kandie Goodwin
Tobacco/Drug-Free York County
Post Office Box 4437
Rock Hill, South Carolina 29732
Telephone: (803) 324-1800
Project Supervisor: Mary Jane McGill
Message In Our Music Project 2001 – Grand Finale Showcase
October 12, 2001
~Prophet Jones to Headline Statewide Contest~
COLUMBIA, S.C. – October 13, 2001 - The top three finalists from each of three regional competitions will perform their original hip-hop and rap songs with positive lyrics during the Grand Finale Showcase of the "Message In Our Music Project 2001" on Saturday, October 13, at 7 p.m. A highlight of the showcase will be a performance by hot new R&B Group Prophet Jones (“Woof”).
Created by the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) and the Carolina Music Group Foundation (CMG), “Message In Our Music” is a statewide competition among aspiring young hip-hop and rap artists to create original songs to counter the negative messages often heard in today’s popular music.
Throughout history, music has been used to express a range of emotions, as well as to influence, educate and inspire. Too often, however, music contains lyrics with negative messages that promote and/or condone the illegal or high-risk use of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.
Hip-hop and rap music are certainly not exceptions to this trend. While many hip-hop and rap songs contain messages about alcohol, tobacco and other drugs, few provide an accurate portrayal of the negative consequences of substance abuse.
This past spring, interested students were invited to submit an original score, along with a lyric sheet, to CMG. Finalists were selected from the entries and participated in regional competitions, held across the state in June. The top three acts from each regional competition were selected to compete in the Grand Finale Showcase.
As winners of the regional competitions, these finalists will perform for a panel of judges and compete for cash prizes during the Showcase, which will be held October 13 at 7 p.m. in the Columbia High School Auditorium, located at 1701 Westchester Drive.
The public is invited to attend this free concert and experience great music with a positive message. For more information about the Message In Our Music Grand Finale, please contact CMG at (843) 723-4111 or e-mail: miomp2001@aol.com.
DAODAS is the cabinet-level agency charged with ensuring the provision of quality services to prevent or reduce the negative consequences of substance use and addictions.
SC Coaches Urge Kids to “Do the Right Thing” on TV Commercials
October 10, 2001
Lou Holtz, Willie Jeffries, and Tommy Bowden Star in Statewide PSA Campaign
COLUMBIA, S.C. – October 8, 2001 – Today the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) introduced its newest public service campaign during a news conference. The campaign, titled “Do the Right Thing,” features South Carolina college football coaches and players discussing the importance of good decision making and the dangers of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.
The stars of these new television spots are University of South Carolina (USC) head football coach Lou Holtz, South Carolina State University head football coach Willie Jeffries, Clemson University head football coach Tommy Bowden, USC defensive coordinator Charlie Strong and Rick C. Wade, director of DAODAS. One of the spots also features USC wide receiver Ryan Brewer, quarterback Phil Petty and linebacker Kalimba Edwards.
Coach Tommy Bowden stated, “This is such a great project and I was so pleased to be asked to be a part of it. Hopefully we can bring this issue to the forefront and help to lead our youth in the right direction through these announcements.”
“I’ve seen a thousand people stand up and say that drugs and alcohol ruined their lives,” stated coach Lou Holtz. “My hope is through programs like this we can get the message out to kids and parents that nothing positive comes from drugs and alcohol.”
Coach Willie Jeffries was so excited about the new project that he attended the news conference where the spots were released. “It’s so important to get kids involved at an early age into sports and activities,” he said. “Hopefully, through our participation in this project, we can get that message out.”
“We all know what a tremendous influence coaches can have on our youth. It’s vital that these role models reinforce the message that success in sports, school and life depends upon making good decisions and staying away from alcohol, tobacco and other drugs,” stated Rick C. Wade, director of DAODAS. “One of the great things about this project is that we found each of these coaches and players not only espouse positive messages, but live by them as well.”
The new television spots should begin airing across the state in mid-October.
DAODAS is the cabinet-level agency charged with ensuring the provision of quality services to prevent or reduce the negative consequences of substance use and addictions.
South Carolina Celebrates Addiction Recovery Month
August 31, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Jim Hodges has joined with the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) to proclaim September as Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month in South Carolina. During the month of September, communities statewide are encouraged to join together to help people with alcohol and other drug abuse problems, their families and friends gain access to treatment services in an effort to heal themselves and the communities in which they live.
Recovery Month celebrates the great strides taken by individuals who have undergone successful treatment and recognizes those in the treatment field who dedicate their lives to helping them. This initiative is part of a national campaign to promote the benefits of substance abuse treatment and embrace the 2001 theme: We Recover Together: Family, Friends and Community.
“While more than 50,000 South Carolinians receive alcohol or other drug treatment each year through the county alcohol and drug abuse authorities, this represents only a fraction of the more than 310,000 individuals in our state who are currently experiencing problems that warrant intervention and treatment,” stated Governor Hodges. “With the magnitude of the problem, South Carolina is extremely fortunate to have in place a statewide system of community-based service providers dedicated exclusively to addressing problems of this nature. Recovery Month is the perfect time to highlight the benefits of treatment and encourage individuals with alcohol and other drug abuse problems to enter treatment and begin their road to recovery.”
Created by the passage of Act 301 of 1973, the community-based system consists of 34 county alcohol and drug abuse authorities that provide direct services to citizens in all 46 counties of the state.
“Addiction touches people in every community in this state. If left untreated, these problems destroy lives, families and communities,” said Rick C. Wade, director of DAODAS. “But, help is available and recovery is possible. Since the creation of our system almost three decades ago, these local authorities have provided direct intervention and treatment services to more than 1 million South Carolinians.”
For more information about local treatment services available in your area or local activities planned as part of Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, contact your county alcohol and drug abuse authority or call 1-888-SCPREVENTS.
DAODAS is the cabinet-level agency charged with ensuring the provision of quality services to prevent or reduce the negative consequences of substance use and addictions.
“We Recover Together: Family, Friends and Community”
August 31, 2001
September Marks National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month
By Rick C. Wade
COLUMBIA, S.C. - When Mary’s husband of 46 years died, she experienced all of the emptiness, pain and loneliness associated with the loss of a spouse. But when her sister, whom she had depended on for support, died soon after, she began to feel that her life had become an endless series of losses. It was then that she turned to Valium as an escape from the pain she was feeling. Her prescription for Valium became her friend – always there to comfort her. But when her “friend” became her enemy and she was no longer able to control her dependence on the drug, Mary became ashamed and couldn’t reveal her problem to friends or family.
Fortunately, her physician of many years realized that Mary had a problem and referred her to the county alcohol and drug abuse authority in her area. The treatment she received helped her realize that she was not alone – that there were people who wanted to help her. Gradually, she is learning to rebuild her life. She can find joy now, and no longer dreads the start of another day.
September is National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, a time to celebrate the stories of people like “Mary.” Thanks to community-based substance abuse treatment programs, support groups and the encouragement of family and friends, thousands of people in South Carolina find the road to recovery each year. Although addiction is a chronic, relapsing illness that involves a number of brain chemistry disorders, treatment for addiction is as effective as treatments for other chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
Substance abuse treatment is cost-effective as well. The cost of addiction to society is immense. According to estimates by the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS), the total economic costs of alcohol and other drug abuse in our state is $2.47 billion. However, research shows that for every dollar spent on treatment, three to seven dollars are saved in social, health and criminal justice costs. In fact, Blue Cross/ Blue Shield found that families’ healthcare costs dropped by 87 percent after treatment.
All of this is great news, because hundreds of thousands of people in South Carolina need treatment. Currently, more than 310,000 South Carolinians are dependent on or abuse alcohol, other drugs or both.
We are all touched by addiction. But help is available, and recovery is possible. South Carolina provides a wide array of prevention, intervention and treatment services at the community level through 34 county alcohol and drug abuse authorities serving all 46 counties of the state.
National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month is a great time to get involved and actively support alcohol and other drug treatment programs in our community. I hope you’ll join me in bringing our families, friends and communities together to help remove the stigma of addiction and encourage those who need to seek treatment. It will only happen when we work together.
Editor’s Note: Appointed by Governor Jim Hodges in January 1999, Rick C. Wade is the director of the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS), the state agency responsible for ensuring the availability and accessibility of alcohol, tobacco and other drug abuse prevention, intervention and treatment services throughout South Carolina. DAODAS and its statewide network of 34 county alcohol and drug abuse authorities provide direct services to residents in all 46 counties of the state.
DAODAS Awards Federal Funds to Local Programs
July 18, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Thirty-one local initiatives (see below) in South Carolina will share in more than $1,226,000 in funding provided through the federal Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act for fiscal year 2002.
The South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) administers the Governor’s portion of these funds allocated to South Carolina through the U.S. Department of Education’s Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Program. Through this effort, grants are awarded each year to community organizations for local prevention programs that target youth throughout the state.
“This is a very important source of community-based funding to supplement the school-based prevention programs already offered by local education agencies,” said Rick C. Wade, director of DAODAS. “If we are to win the fight against substance abuse in our state, we must continue to find ways to bring people together from across our communities – from civic organizations, youth clubs, schools, local agencies – all the individuals and entities that are dedicated to protecting our young people from the ravages of alcohol and other drug abuse. Only then will we realize our dream of safe and drug-free lives for all South Carolinians.”
The funded programs will supplement those already offered in education curricula designated for school-based prevention, and will reach youth through before- and after-school projects. Criteria for funding included a basis in data and research, as well as measurable objectives for each program. Funding was awarded by DAODAS effective July 1, 2001, through June 30, 2002.
DAODAS is the state government agency charged with ensuring the provision of quality services to prevent or reduce the negative consequences of substance use and addictions.
Underage Drinking Task Force Releases Recommendations
May 24, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. – The South Carolina Task Force on Underage Drinking released its recommendations for resolving problems resulting from the use of alcoholic beverages by South Carolina youth under the age of 21 during a news conference held today at the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS).
The task force, formed by DAODAS in the fall of 1999, consists of young people, parents, business leaders, and representatives of state and community agencies and organizations. The task force presented a variety of strategies to identify ways to promote comprehensive and coordinated initiatives to limit access to alcoholic beverages by minors; to prevent consumption of alcoholic beverages by those under 21 years of age; and to change community norms and policies that promote underage drinking.
The goals of the task force included identifying the degree of the underage drinking problem in South Carolina; recommending strategies; developing and promoting policy recommendations at the state or community level; and reviewing existing alcohol laws related to underage drinking.
“As South Carolinians prepare to celebrate Memorial Day weekend, which ushers in the season of graduations, "first week at the beach” and other events that provide temptations to young people to consume alcohol, we urge parents and community leaders to be vigilant in their efforts to keep alcoholic beverages out of the hands of our young people,” said Rick C. Wade, director of DAODAS. “We know that alcohol is the leading contributor to injury, death and criminal behavior among our children, and we must do everything we can to reinforce our prevention messages.”
The task force’s recommendations covered a variety of areas, including prevention of impaired driving, school-based strategies, limitations on access to alcohol, community support, parental involvement, court diversion programs and training. The following are examples of the recommendations being offered by the task force:
SOUTH CAROLINA SURPASSES GOAL FOR 2002
Youth Access to Tobacco Products Remains Under 20% May 28, 2002
The South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) today released the results of the 2002 Youth Access to Tobacco Study, the ninth annual study to determine the extent of the problem of underage access to cigarettes in South Carolina.
Conducted by DAODAS in cooperation with the state's 34 county alcohol and drug abuse authorities, the annual study monitors the state's compliance with the Synar Regulation of the federal Public Health Service Act of 1993. The Synar Regulation is a federal mandate that requires each state to document a rate of tobacco sales to minors of no more than 20 percent. States that fail to meet this requirement risk losing millions of dollars in federal funds for alcohol and other drug abuse prevention and treatment services.
"More important than the $8 million at risk is the health of our youth in South Carolina," stated Wendell Price, interim director of DAODAS. "Our state spends more than $855 million on tobacco-related healthcare costs each year. The longer our youth stay away from tobacco, the greater chance they'll stay tobacco-free for life. I am really proud of the partnership between law enforcement, local communities and prevention partners around the state that enables me to announce that we've once again met our goal and continued the downward trend.
"This year in South Carolina, only 15.5 percent of our state's youth ages 14 to 17 were successful in their attempts to purchase cigarettes, down from 17.1 percent in 2001," Price said. "This is the lowest rate ever documented since South Carolina first conducted the study. In 1994, the first year the study was conducted, 63.2 percent of the state's underage youth were sold cigarettes as part of the study. The continuing downward trend we've seen is a testament to the partnership and collaboration between law enforcement, local communities and prevention partners. This success shows us that it really takes all of us working together to make a difference."
South Carolina youth typically begin experimenting with smokeless or "spit" tobacco around age 11 and with cigarettes around age 12. Research shows that underage smokers are much more likely than nonsmoking teens to use alcohol and other drugs. This group also is much more likely to perform poorly in school, to cut classes, to drop out of school by the 10th grade, and to become involved in crime.
A number of agencies on the local and state levels are working together to reduce youth access to tobacco in South Carolina, many of which were represented at the news conference.
Jack Claypoole, executive director of LRADAC, The Behavioral Health Center of The Midlands, revealed that Richland and Lexington counties' overall sales rates were both lower than the state average of 15.5 percent. Richland County's rate for 2002 was 13.2 percent, up slightly from last year's rate of 12.1 percent. Lexington County's rate for 2002 was 11.8 percent, down from last year's rate of 13.1 percent.
"We continue to be encouraged by the steady decline in youth access to tobacco in Lexington and Richland counties," said Claypoole. "Our valuable partnerships with DAODAS, local law enforcement, retailers and parents enable us to directly impact the health and well-being of young people in our community through this important project."
Chief Robert M. Stewart of the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) added his support, stating, "The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is committed to reducing the use of tobacco products by our youth by limiting access through enforcement efforts. In 2002, SLED has already performed more than 1,000 compliance checks. Through partnering with other state agencies, local law enforcement and private entities, we will continue in our quest to serve the citizens of South Carolina."
This year's study took place during a 13-week period between January 2 and March 28, 2002, in 341 communities across all 46 counties of the state. Adult volunteer drivers accompanied the youth volunteers who participated in the study. The youth made 4,818 random, unannounced attempts to purchase cigarettes from convenience stores/gas stations, grocery stores, drug stores/pharmacies and discount stores, as well as through vending machines in restaurants, hotels and other establishments. Of these underage purchase attempts, 747 resulted in sales to minors.
Businesses located in the Pee Dee region of South Carolina had the lowest rate of sales to minors (13.3 percent). Businesses located in the Upstate region, the Midlands region, and the Lowcountry region of South Carolina were more likely to sell cigarettes to underage youth (18.1 percent, 15.9 percent and 14.3 percent, respectively). Businesses in non-metropolitan counties were equally as likely to sell cigarettes to minors as businesses in metropolitan counties (15.9 percent vs. 15.3 percent).
DAODAS is the cabinet-level agency charged with ensuring the provision of quality services to prevent or reduce the negative consequences of substance use and addictions.
Project to battle negative messages in popular music
March 26, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. – To counter the negative messages young people receive about alcohol and other drugs in today’s popular music, a new prevention program launched today will give aspiring young hip-hop and rap artists the opportunity to shine.
The South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) and the Carolina Music Group Foundation kicked off the “Message In Our Music Project 2001” before students at Spring Valley High School in Columbia. The statewide music competition is intended to counter the negative messages young people receive from rap and hip-hop music.
Through the new project, South Carolina students have an opportunity to perform live onstage in major concert venues, win cash prizes and have their own original songs professionally recorded.
A national study released this past year by the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) revealed that 75 percent of all rap music contained references to alcohol and/or other drug use. Alcohol and other drugs were mentioned in 20 percent of all Hot 100 songs; 20 percent of all alternative rock music; 14 percent of country-western songs; and 12 percent of heavy metal songs.
“The constant exposure to negative messages contained in today’s popular music has a profound impact on young people,” said Rick C. Wade, director of DAODAS. “All of these references to alcohol and other drugs without mention of the negative consequences make kids think it’s OK to use these substances. That’s the wrong message to send our kids, and we’re determined to do something about it.”
If South Carolina’s pilot project is successful, the program may be replicated nationwide, according to Wade. “Prevention experts are watching us with their fingers crossed. We’ve got to find effective ways to reach kids where they are and to reduce the near-epidemic use of alcohol and other drugs. If this works, we’ll know we’re on the right track.”
The study reported that young people spend 10,500 hours listening to music while they are in the seventh through 12th grades. In comparison, young people will spend only 6,500 hours in school during that same time. Young people believe behaviors such as alcohol and other drug use are typical or normal when portrayed frequently in the news media. As a result, they perceive that these behaviors are acceptable. Further, in 91 percent of the songs on the radio today, there are no messages about the negative consequences of using these substances.
“Rap is a powerful music genre,” said Kurt Walker of the Carolina Music Group Foundation, which is partnering with DAODAS on this project. “We believe all that talent can be channeled into more productive, positive messages.”
To accomplish this goal, DAODAS and the Carolina Music Group Foundation are sponsoring a song-writing competition for students in middle schools, high schools and colleges throughout the state. Students are invited to submit their original rap or hip-hop songs for the opportunity to win one of three $1,000 cash prizes and to have their songs professionally recorded on a CD. The CD will be distributed to record companies across the nation, to South Carolina radio stations, to schools and to a variety of other programs for young people. DAODAS and its statewide network of 34 county alcohol and drug abuse authorities will use the CD as a prevention tool as they work together to reach young people with this important message.
Finalists selected by a panel of judges will perform their songs at one of three regional competitions in South Carolina. The regional competitions will be held June 2 at the Township Auditorium in Columbia; June 9 at McAlister Auditorium on the campus of Furman University in Greenville; and June 29 at the Gaillard Auditorium in Charleston. The winner of each of the three competitions will win $1,000. All songs performed at the competitions will be recorded on the CD.
Contest rules and the application form can be found on the DAODAS Web site at www.daodas.org or by calling the Carolina Music Group Foundation at (843) 723-4111.
DAODAS is the state government agency charged with ensuring the provision of quality services to prevent or reduce the negative consequences of substance use and addictions.
DAODAS to host youth rally at W.C. Hawkins Stadium
March 14, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. -- A youth anti-drug rally will be held Thursday, March 22, at W.C. Hawkins Stadium on the campus of Irmo High School. The youth rally, titled "Protecting Our Future," is open to all area middle and high school students.
Sponsored by the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS), the rally is designed to raise awareness of substance abuse problems in our schools and to give young people an outlet for expressing their ideas and opinions about these problems. The event will help educate young people about the prevalence of drugs in their community and encourage them to lead positive, healthy lives.
A student survey recently released by School District Five of Lexington and Richland Counties revealed high rates of availability and use of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs within the district. DAODAS data confirm that the results of the local survey were consistent with statewide data on youth substance abuse.
"Alcohol and other drug abuse among our young people is a growing problem in South Carolina," said Rick C. Wade, director of DAODAS, "and we are committed to identifying and treating these problems to protect our future. This rally allows us to spread a positive message in a fun, supportive environment. We also encourage parents to talk with their children about the dangers of substance abuse. Parents are our best weapons in preventing alcohol and other drug abuse among our children."
The youth rally, which will begin at 4 p.m. and last approximately one hour, will be followed by a performance by popular Irmo-area band Full Marianne. The keynote speaker is former USC and NFL football star Harold Green. The rally features improvisational skits by City Year?s Decide Team, performances by the Irmo High School varsity cheerleaders and anti-drug speeches by Irmo High School students. Substance abuse professionals will be available to serve as resources for students and parents.
DAODAS is the state government agency charged with ensuring the provision of quality services to prevent or reduce the negative consequences of substance use and addictions. DAODAS partners with public, private and social sector organizations to provide quality prevention, intervention and treatment services for the citizens of South Carolina.
State agency to host teleconference on drugs in the workplace
February 2, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. -- The South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) invites companies and business associations to participate in a teleconference on drugs in the workplace on Thursday, February 22, in the DAODAS Education and Training Center, located at 101 Business Park Boulevard in Columbia. Registration will begin at 12:45 p.m. with the telecast following from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Employers are increasingly faced with issues of substance abuse and addiction among employees. These situations can negatively affect job performance and lead to devastating consequences. The broadcast, sponsored by the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA), will provide viewers with effective workplace strategies to create and maintain a drug-free workplace. Program participants will learn about effective systems that are in place to implement and sustain a drug-free workplace from the local level to the state level, as they hear from business leaders who are addressing drug issues in the workplace.
The program will address the following issues:
DAODAS is the state government agency charged with ensuring the provision of quality services to prevent or reduce the negative consequences of substance use and addictions.
Agency not surprised by high rates of substance abuse among teens
January 29, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. -- A recently released school survey on youth alcohol, tobacco and other drug use in Lexington/Richland School District 5 is consistent with statewide data on youth substance abuse, said Rick Wade, director of the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS).
"Alcohol and other drug abuse among our young people is a growing problem in South Carolina," said Wade, "and we are committed to identifying and treating these problems to protect our future. It is important for parents to realize that this problem is everywhere. It is not limited to one neighborhood, one ethnic group or one socioeconomic background. It is in your backyard. We want parents to realize the magnitude of this problem and the urgent need for resources to combat youth substance abuse and access."
Parents interested in talking to their children about substance abuse issues can obtain a parents' guide from DAODAS. Call 1-888-SCPREVENTS for a free copy.
DAODAS sponsors a broad range of prevention, intervention and treatment programs targeting South Carolina's youth, including campaigns to target underage drinking and increase enforcement of underage drinking laws and teen training programs to encourage high school students to get involved in prevention activities in their local communities. Each year, DAODAS awards 25 mini-grants of $1,000 each to groups of youth for the planning and implementation of youth-to-youth prevention activities.
DAODAS plans this fall to conduct a statewide school survey to obtain comprehensive data on substance abuse among South Carolina's young people. The survey will reveal information such as current use, age of first use, perceived risk and perceived availability of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs. The survey will assist DAODAS in strengthening its existing youth prevention programs as well as creating new ones.
DAODAS is the state government agency charged with ensuring the provision of quality services to prevent or reduce the negative consequences of substance use and addictions. DAODAS partners with public, private and social sector organizations to provide quality prevention, intervention and treatment services for the citizens of South Carolina.
Television Commercial to Target Underage Drinking
January 3, 2001
COLUMBIA, S.C. - Tonight, the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) will be filming the third in a series of television public service announcements (PSA) about underage drinking. The PSA campaign, titled "So Are We," focuses on the role of state and local law enforcement in enforcing underage drinking laws in South Carolina. The new PSA will begin airing throughout South Carolina in February.
The statewide media campaign is funded by an "Enforcing Underage Drinking Laws" grant from the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention of the U.S. Department of Justice. The two-year $360,000 grant funds initiatives seeking to reduce underage drinking. The major goals of the project in South Carolina are to increase enforcement of underage drinking laws, decrease availability of alcohol to underage youth and change community norms to reduce underage alcohol use.
In addition to the statewide media campaign, initiatives of the Enforcing Underage Drinking Laws Program include higher education campus policy reviews, youth prevention grants, a statewide task force, training and retailer education.
DAODAS is the cabinet-level agency charged with ensuring the provision of quality services to prevent or reduce the negative consequences of substance use and addictions.