Operation Aware Helps Kids Make Good Choices

Chris Howell, NewsOn6.com

TULSA, OK -- Rick Couri is sprucing up Riverside Plaza this week for a good cause.

Couri, sports director for KRMG, is raising funds for Operation Aware, a program that teaches students how to resist peer-pressure and make the right choices when it comes to alcohol, drugs, tobacco, bullying and bad relationships.

"This is the 23rd event we've done for Operation Aware and somehow it always seems to involve physical labor," panted the talk-show host, winded after laying sod at the new plaza.

"This is a beautiful park and it's going to be a great place to bring kids.  These young kids are so pure, at this point in their lives their decisions are made for them, but at some point they're going to have to make those and that's what this program is for."

Besides laying sod, Rick will paint handrails, mulch trees and edge the paths of Riverside Park, showing folks how hard work and volunteerism is always the correct choice.

He will work at the park May 20th through 22nd, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and encourages folks to visit him, donate money by calling Operation Aware at 582-7884 or by visiting its web site.

There will also be an End of School party on May 22nd from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the plaza at 41st and Riverside Drive.