Posted: 3/27/07
"Facing the Dragon" warns of methamphetamine dangers
National methamphetamine educator David Parnell will visit Caledonia on Friday, March 30, to share his personal story of meth addiction and recovery.
Parnellís presentation will focus on the alarming rates of methamphetamine abuse in our area. He will present ëFacing the Dragoní to students in grades 5-12 in a closed session in the afternoon, and then to the general public at 7 p.m at the High School Auditorium. There is no admission. Parental discretion is advised due to the graphic nature of the presentation.
Parnell, a husband, father of seven, suicide survivor and former meth dealer from Tennessee, now devotes his life traveling to high schools and communities warning about the dangers of methamphetamine. Parnell has been on T.V., radio, newspapers, and magazines in the United States and abroad. He also has worked with the Partnership for a Drug Free Americaís national advertising campaign.
He began using drugs at the age of 13 together with his father.
His message is captivating and his presentations are graphic. His face still holds the scars of his past drug abuse after he took an assault rifle and shot his face off. Students and adults alike are drawn to his story and will long remember it.
Kirk Johnson, Hastings High School Counselor said the following about David Parnellís presentation: "I have attended many lyceums in my 13 years as a high school counselor, but I have never attended a more powerful lyceum than David Parnell. He gave an excellent presentation to our students in the morning and another presentation to our community in the evening. Our student body was literally speechless after listening to Davidís gripping story of addiction and recovery. Many of our students returned to hear his evening message as well. Our community was also receptive to his unbelievable story and is much more aware of what steps we can take to stop the methamphetamine monster that is sweeping this country. I believe every high school and community in America should have the opportunity to listen to Davidís passionate message."
According to Houston County Sheriff Doug Ely, "This is an opportunity that the citizens of Houston County should not miss!" To learn more on David Parnell, go to his website: www.facingthedragon.org.
The presentation is sponsored by Caledonia Area Community Education and the City of Caledonia together with the Houston County Child Abuse Prevention Council.
Caledonia Argus
314 West Lincoln St.
P.O. Box 227
Caledonia, MN 55921-0227
507/724-3475
E-Mail: editor.argus@ecm-inc.com