The success of the Alabama Citizens Action Program (ALCAP) in addressing moral concerns in the state’s schools and communities was highlighted during the Alabama Baptist State Convention Nov. 14–15 in Montgomery.
ALCAP executive director Dan Ireland said 2000 was a successful year. He told messengers ALCAP made drug education presentations in 492 schools during the past year, with a goal of presenting the importance of a drug-free lifestyle in every Alabama school during the next 12 months.
Ireland said ALCAP in 2001 will also be involved in working to prevent renewed efforts to bring gambling to Alabama. He predicted the 2001 legislative session will see:
-A “renewed emphasis” to allow slot machines at dog tracks;
-Resurfacing of a bill calling for a constitutional amendment requiring a statewide vote before there is additional gambling anywhere in the state;
-A bill that will make the possession of any slot machine or video poker game illegal.
ALCAP staff member Bill Day praised messengers for the difference the support Alabama Baptists make in the lives of students.
Day said Alabama Baptists have opened the door for ALCAP through financial support and prayers. He thanked them “for allowing young people to hear the options and alternatives — there is a drug-free lifestyle.
“As new doors are open to us, the second need is evident — we need more teachers,” Day said. “We would love for … you to get involved in what we’re doing.”
Day said ALCAP offers training for counselors working in its drug-free education program. He asked messengers to consider if they or anyone they know would be interested in working with ALCAP’s drug education program.
Retired pastor Willis Kelly, a representative of the Christian Life Commission, was involved in the defeat of a move to allow alcohol sales in Albertville.
Kelly said efforts to bring alcohol sales to Albertville were defeated by a greater margin in the area, than those who voted against statewide lottery gambling. He said 900 votes were cast to keep Albertville dry, versus 300 cast against a lottery.
“Baptists got involved in Albertville,” Kelly said. “The Baptists of Albertville and Marshall County rallied. They took the lead in it with prayers, money and support, and we claim that victory.”
Kelly thanked ALCAP for their support, saying “they were there.
“Dan is always there,” he said. “When you call him, he’ll be there and those working with him, to help in any county and any city.
“I’m proud to be an Alabama Baptist and I thank the Lord (that) when we work together on these moral issues we’re going to win,” Kelly said.
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