Tunkhannock is often described as a quintessential Norman Rockwell kind of town, so pretty, so safe, just a wonderful place to live and work. Those of us who live here all pretty much agree with that description. But probably the best quality of our community is that when we have a problem, we address it. We tackle it head on.

That “can-do” spirit and determination was in evidence at the Dietrich Theater for the showing of the film “Generation Found” last week. One hundred sixty people came out to see the story of how Houston tackled its adolescent addiction crisis with innovative and revolutionary programs. After the movie, a panel of experts inspired all to resolve to continue efforts to support recovery programs in our community and to do all they can to combat our addiction problem.

The hanging banner tribute “Those we have lost to addiction in Wyoming County,” still on display at the Dietrich with at least 250 names of loved ones, is our next call for action in our community. Before and after the movie showing of “Generation Found,” even more names were added to the banner.

More than ever, we need to work together as a community to keep from adding even more names.

What are the facts that come to light in the movie? First of all, nine out of 10 people begin their addiction as adolescents. Unfortunately, adolescents are often forgotten when it comes to addiction recovery. Also, drug overdoses have been the leading cause of death for ages 18-34 since 2014.

And what do we know about successful recovery programs? We know that connection with peer groups is the foundation of recovery and that Recovery High Schools work. Denying the problem and refusing to have recovery facilities “ in our backyard” will not do anything to help.

Houston tackled the problem.

We can, too.

Another program showing community spirit is coming up, a free program for kids. Certified Yoga instructors Gerri Sommers and Julie Ver Beek are on a mission to introduce 6-12 year olds to the benefits of Yoga. With special animal names for poses and other special approaches, they are offering free Yoga for Kids at the Dietrich Theater on Saturday, May 20. Ages 6-8 will meet from 10 to 10:45 a.m. and ages 9-12 will meet from 11 to 11:45 a.m.

For registration or information, call 570-996-1500.

The benefits of yoga for all ages include working on flexibility, balance, and coordination. Yoga also promotes focus, and concentration.

“The earlier we begin yoga, the better,” said Julie Ver Beek. “Children are already flexible and do not need to be corrected in their poses, but an early start can start life-changing habits.”

Yoga was the initial inspiration for Harry Sweppenheiser, of Tunkhannock, to take the trip of his dreams last year to Bhutan, the smallest state in Asia that is entirely in the Himalayan Mountains. He will share his photos and videos in a free presentation of “Discovering Bhutan with Harry” at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 20 at the Dietrich – a community sharing of a beautiful multi-cultural experience and you are invited.

So our news is all about how communities can work together. We are so proud that we have proven we can. We can work together to solve problems and render services, we can teach children the benefits of yoga that can be life changing, and we can share journeys and adventures that show us the beauty of another corner of the world.

All right here at the Dietrich Theater. Come along with us!

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More Than Movies

Margie Young

Reach the Abington Journal newsroom at 570-587-1148 or news@s24528.p831.sites.pressdns.com.