Prom was held on May 3rd, but not before students at John F. Hodge High School were presented with a program aimed at preventing alcohol poisoning and drunk driving.  For the past 8 years, Tau Iota Gamma service fraternity (formerly Character Education) has provided the high school with reminders of the dangers that can face teens when they use alcohol, and drink and drive. This year’s program was a grim reminder of what can happen to a person when binge drinking is involved, as well as what can happen to parents who host parties where teens drink.

Students watched a video, performed by Tau Iota Gamma members, of a staged party where a young woman dies from alcohol poisoning. A parent (who hosted the party in an effort to “keep the kids off the road”) is arrested. She is subsequently charged with involuntary manslaughter.  Following the video, the students were escorted into the chapel of the Christian Church to witness the victim’s “funeral.” Eulogies by friends and family of the victim were given, as well as a brief service and video of the victim’s life.

The theme for this year’s program was Guardian Angel and donated shirts were given to the entire student body, staff, and others to wear on the day before prom to serve as a reminder to take care of each other, and to be safe and smart on prom night.

Tau Iota Gamma members would like to thank the following individuals and organizations for their part in this year’s program: St. James Police Department, St. James Fire District, St. James Ambulance District, Larry Swinfard (County Coroner), Grellner Distributors, Designs By Lisa, Jones Funeral Home, Arrive Alive Coalition, Phelps County Sherriff’s Department, Phelps County Prosecutor’s Office, Tom Luebbert, The James Foundation, and the St. James Christian Church. If anyone would like to view this video or purchase a copy, please contact Maggie Roberts at John F. Hodge High School.