A group of 10 Magnolia Middle School students graduated from a program Tuesday designed to show them they must care for themselves just like they must care for the environment. Weems Community Mental Health Center created Project Trail, a pilot summer substance abuse prevention program. Separate groups of boys and girls met twice a week for six weeks at Bonita Lakes. Kyra Wilson, a prevention specialist at Weems, said the nature-based program is meant to foster each child's relationship with the environment. [continues 314 words]
DRUG EDUCATION - Billie Jo Miller, a recovering drug addict, wants state lawmakers to use some of the money seized from drug busts and fines collected from drunken driving and narcotics arrests to help fund secondary drug rehabilitation programs. She also wants to educate adults and children about drug abuse. The energy Billie Jo Miller once spent looking for narcotics to feed her habit is now focused on making a difference in her community. A self-proclaimed recovering addict, the Bailey resident wants to inform and educate adults and children about the dangers of illegal drug use. She also wants to enhance the rehabilitation process locally. [continues 800 words]
