Pubdate: Mon, 05 Nov 2001
Source: Evansville Courier & Press (IN)
Copyright: 2001 The Evansville Courier
Contact:  http://www.courierpress.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/138
Author: Patricia Swanson, Courier & Press staff writer

MISS INDIANA LEAVES TV JOB TO TAKE ANTI-DRUG ROLE

Miss Indiana Allison Hatcher has taken an indefinite leave of absence as a 
reporter from television station WEHT-ABC25 to promote anti-drug messages 
for the state Department of Education. Hatcher, a classical pianist, has 
founded Sound Decisions, a motivational program combining her music and 
lectures urging students to stay in school and participate in 
extracurricular activities.

National research shows that children involved in extracurricular 
activities have lower incidences of drug abuse and juvenile crime than 
those who aren't active in school.

Hatcher will receive $250 for each presentation she makes - up to 100 
presentations, or a total payment of $25,000.

Her appearances - through the rest of this school year - are being funded 
through the federal Safe and Drug-Free Grant program.

Last year's Miss Indiana, Betsy Bobel, conducted similar programs on 
nutrition for the State Education Department, paid for through federal 
Department of Agriculture funds.
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MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager