RAPID RIVER –An event addressing the alarming prevalence, persistent dangers and continuing tragedies of opioid misuse, addiction and fentanyl overdose has been scheduled for the evening of Wednesday, Feb. 12.

The public is invited to attend at Masonville Township Hall at 7 p.m., where organizers have arranged for a series of presentations to reach the community in an active and powerful way.

Parents who have lost children will speak, as will: an individual who has struggled with addiction personally; Dr. Mary Frances Myrick, who has treated substance abuse disorder and seen a shift since fentanyl began to circulate; and people involved with law enforcement who have seen what the drug can do.

John Gudwer, Escanaba Public Safety Department director, and Thomas Szocinski, Rapid River Pub owner, will make introductions.

Audience questions will be taken after the talks.

“I’m hoping we can impact, get the community involved — instead of just ranting and raving online — get them involved, get some ideas,” organizer Kelly Dittrich said. She herself has lost a nephew to an overdose.

Local agencies offering relevant resources, like Celebrate Recovery and Face Addiction Now, will have tables in the hall as well.

The address is 10584 N. Main St., the former school, in Rapid River.

Dittrich said that a group called “Overdose Awareness of Delta County” is being formed, and she hopes to establish a committee that will be productive in obtaining grants and extending resources where needed.