UMC to Host “Oct-SOBER-fest” October 21-25
The University of Minnesota, Crookston (UMC) will observe National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week October 21-25 with “Oct-SOBER-fest” – a series of programs and events on campus. The annual national awareness week is observed by more than 3,000 other campuses across the country. During “Oct-SOBER-fest” UMC students will participate in a variety of events, all designed to reinforce personal responsibility and respect for current state laws and school policies when it comes to the consumption of alcoholic beverages.
UMC staff member Peggy Miller, Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Prevention (AODAP) Program Coordinator, says she wants to make the week’s events thought provoking, yet entertaining for students. All sessions will be held on the UMC campus and are open to the public. For more information about the week’s events or for disability accommodations, contact Miller at 218-281-8527.
Events in the week-long series include:
Monday, October 21
Hellstrom
is the Director of Education and Training for The BACCHUS and GAMMA Peer
Education Network, an organization specializing in alcohol and drug
educational programs run by college students.
He has spent the last decade as a spokesman for healthy choices
regarding alcohol and other health education issues.
Although best known for his expertise on alcohol issues, he has produced dozens of educational materials on issues ranging from sexual assault, to illicit drug abuse, to domestic violence and binge drinking. He is also a national advocate for the power of “Peer Theatre,” and many of his programs include dramatic and comedy elements, delivering important messages to students in a non-confrontational manner.
“The two topics I primarily educate on are alcohol and sex,” says Hellstrom. “These are not boring or depressing topics for most college students, so why should the training be? I believe that if you have something valuable to say, and say it in an interesting and engaging manner, people will listen. For me that means using comedy and storytelling to get my message across.”
Earlier in the evening Hellstrom will hold a special session with UMC’s resident assistant (RA) staff.
Tuesday, October 22
Domestic Violence Victims
Memorial Service
Noon, Bede Ballroom
Each year over a million crimes
are committed against persons by their current or former spouse,
boyfriend, or girlfriend.
This memorial service is for those victims.
Co-sponsored by Polk County Coordinated Victims Services
Wednesday, October 23
“How to Beat a DUI”
Noon, Sahlstrom Conference Center A and B, Brown Dining Room
This will be a DUI (Driving Under
the Influence) simulation session featuring Attorney Anne Rasmusson and
Officer Ryan Bergquist.
The session will address the changing DUI laws and how they affect
the individual on a legal, financial, and personal basis.
Goggles that simulate the affect alcohol has on a person’s vision
when intoxicated will be available.
Friday, October 25
AODAP Open House
featuring “mocktails” and snacks
1-4 p.m., 211 Bede Student Center
Posted 10/15/2002
Contact: Andrew Svec,
218-281-8435