Mall Shooting Touches HC DrugFree Family
The HC DrugFree family joins the community in expressing condolences to the families of the victims of the tragedy on Saturday, January 25 at The Mall in Columbia. One of the shooting victims, 25 year old Tyler Johnson, was an active HC DrugFree speaker for the past several years. His story of teen drug and alcohol abuse and addiction pierced many hearts, while his story of recovery offered hope and excitement at the possibilities ahead.
Tyler was quick to offer his assistance to our staff, had an infectious smile and greeted everyone with a warm embrace. I'm comforted knowing we shared a "Tyler hug" the last time I saw him, but never did I think that would be our last.
He was destined to make a difference in this world, and he did. He shared his story with hundreds of teens and parents and freely gave of himself so others could avoid the path he traveled as a teen.
We at HC DrugFree will miss Tyler, continue to share his story, and work to prevent drug and alcohol abuse. On behalf of Tyler, I ask you to intervene quickly and often when you suspect a teenager is illegally using drugs or alcohol, give a "Tyler hug" to your child or grandchild to let them know that you are their safe place, and most of all, remember, there is hope and help for drug and alcohol addiction.
To our friends at The Serenity Center and in the 12 Step Recovery Community, we thank you for the support and friendship you provided Tyler. For more information about 12 Step Recovery Programs, please visit HC DrugFree's website or go to: serenitycenter.homestead.com or call 410-884-6088.
As always, we want to extend our sincerest gratitude to our partners, the Howard County Police Department and the Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services for working 24/7 to keep the community safe. HC DrugFree is proud to be your partner.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at 443-325-0040 or joan@hcdrugfree.org. 
Joan Webb Scornaienchi
Executive Director, HC DrugFree
Upcoming HC DrugFree Programs
Teen Advisory Council Meeting
Monday, February 3, 2014
The Barn, Oakland Mills Village Center, 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
HoCo FilmFest
DEADLINE Monday, March 3, 2014, 2:45 p.m.
HC DrugFree is looking for entries for its category at the
HoCo FilmFest. High School students who live in Howard County are invited to create Public Service Announcements (PSAs) focusing on preventing prescription and over-the-counter drug misuse and abuse in youth ages 12 to 25. All entries are due no later than 2:45 p.m. on Friday, March 3, 2014. For guidelines and prize information visit www.hcdrugfree.org.
Teen Advisory Council Meeting
Monday, March 3, 2014
The Barn, Oakland Mills Village Center, 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Senior Week: Staying Safe in Ocean City
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Atholton High School, 7:00 p.m.
HC DrugFree and Atholton High School PTSA are partnering to invite teens and their parents to attend "Senior Week: Staying Safe in Ocean City". Many Howard County high school seniors participate in the Maryland tradition of going to the shore for "Senior Week". Having so many unsupervised teens in one place can lead to dangerous situations, risky behavior, and trouble with the law. Before deciding whether or not to permit your child to go to Ocean City for Senior Week, find out the facts from Ocean City Beach Patrol Sergeant (and Mayfield Woods Middle School teacher) James H. McVey IV and Ocean City Police Corporal Howard Caplan as they offer advice to keep teens safe. Parents are encouraged to bring their high school senior to this informative program.
Parent 2 Parent
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Howard High School, Cafeteria, 7:00 p.m.
Kick Butts Day
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
A national day of activism that empowers youth to stand out, speak up and seize control against tobacco use.
Senior Week: Staying Safe in Ocean City (Last Chance! Final OC 2014 Program)
Thursday, March 20, 2014
River Hill High School, 7:00 p.m.
HC DrugFree and River Hill High School PTSA are partnering to invite teens and their parents to attend "Senior Week: Staying Safe in Ocean City". See above for details.
RHHStival
Friday, March 28, 2014
River Hill High School, 7:00 p.m.
HC DrugFree and River Hill High School Bands are partnering to bring you
RHHStival, a county-wide youth music competition. Featuring the music and inspiration of singer/songwriter, Dave Tieff. Event information can be found at:
Click Here for RHHStival Program Information
Teen Advisory Council Meeting
Monday, April 7, 2014
The Barn, Oakland Mills Village Center, 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
National Drug Take Back Day
Saturday, April 26, 2014
Locations to be announced, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Start collecting your unwanted and expired prescription or over-the-counter medications for proper disposal. Help keep these medications out of our water system and out of the hands of youth.
HC DrugFree Needles/Syringes/EpiPens Collection
Saturday, April 26, 2014
HC DrugFree Office, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
