Massapequa Youth Win Big in Elks Drug Awareness Program

Massapequa Elks Lodge #2162 recently recognized three Massapequa youth for their artistic and creative work submitted to its Drug Free is Me Poster, Essay and Video Contest. Local youth were awarded First Place in their grade category at the lodge level and their entries were sent to compete at district and New York Elks state level. Thirty five Massapequa youth participated in the multi-media contest.

John O’Fee, an 8th Grader student at Berner Middle School, won First Place at the Massapequa Lodge and NYS levels for his essay regarding a loved one's personal journey with alcohol. He wrote about how good people often change when they become addicted to drugs and shared how some who become addicted to drugs will eventually need them to feel normal - like the rest of us need food. He also discussed how the drug Fentanyl can be hidden in illegal drugs with the user not knowing it can be fatal.

Samaira Desai, a 4th Grade student attending Fairfield Elementary School, won First Place at the Massapequa Lodge and Second Place at NYS levels for her vibrant and beautiful picture Fly Like A Free Bird Filled With Joy And Success Don’t Be Caged By Drugs!

James O’Hara, a 3rd grade student attending McKenna Elementary School, won First Place at the Massapequa Lodge level for his poster Be Strong! Be Kind! Be Drug Free! Be Smart!