A screenshot from the 2021 winning problem gambling video, “Reach Out,” by a pair of Sprague High School students.
Two Sprague High School students took home a $500 award from the Marion County Health and Human Services Department for a video spotlighting problem gambling.
Students Hayden Grow and Nate Harmon placed first in a county contest intended to spotlight the links between problem gambling and substance abuse in teens, according to a news release. Their video “Reach Out” showed how connections with friends can help people get past mistakes like losing money through gambling.
A second place team of Isaac Ramirez and Elizabeth Guzman Martinez from Early College High School in Salem won $250 for their video “The Gamblers Redemption.”
Third place went to a McNary High School team of Dakota Dunagan, Leonardo Zavala, Isaia Galindo Lopez and Angel Prado, who will also win $250.
Each winner’s sponsoring video production class also receives a cash award. The county funded the program through a grant.
“The three winners in our video contest exemplify positive messaging, creativity, and video production,” said Michael Keuler, Marion County problem gambling prevention coordinator, in a statement. “We are so impressed with all the finalists in the contest. Their video’s will help our community and local youth understand the effects of problem gambling and the connection it has with substance abuse.”
All videos are posted on the county health department’s Facebook page for viewing.
-Rachel Alexander
