CHURCH PRESENTS SEMINAR ON METHAMPHETAMINE ADDICTION

An informational seminar presented by Dr. Mary F. Holley, founder and
director of Mothers Against Methamphetamine, will be held at 6 p.m.
Sunday at Heritage Baptist Church.

Holley will present "Crystal Meth: The High is a Lie," which includes
a general description of meth, stages of addiction and a brief
description of the basic physiology of the drug as it affects the brain cell.

The presentation will provide valuable information for parents and
offer hope to both the family and the addict, said officials.

Holley founded MAMa in 2002 following the suicide of her brother.
After his death, Holley investigated the effects of meth on the human
brain and discovered several startling facts, many of which will be
discussed at the meeting.

Last spring, Holley spoke at a similar seminar at Texarkana College
and her return appearance is due in large part to Dr. Carol Hodgson,
member of Heritage Baptist and division chairman of Health
Occupations at the college.

"I wasn't able to attend the seminar when she was here before but she
left me a book," Hodgson said. "When I read the book, I was
astounded. The use of meth is so prevalent in this area and she
answered many of my questions about the drug."

Over a period of time, Hodgson learned just how close to home the
effects of the drug were.

"In our Sunday school class, several members have people in their
family who have dealt with meth addiction so we decided as a class to
do something," she said. "We thought education was a good beginning."

The class watched Holley's DVD, which includes animation, drama,
music, photos and live footage of her brother before his death, and
found it to be an emotionally moving experience. The group then
decided to invite her to speak at the church.

The mission of Holley's organization is to glorify God by providing
competent and compassionate drug education as well as rehabilitation
resources that reflect the mercy of Jesus Christ for the addicts,
their family and the community.

The mission of Holley's organization is to glorify God by providing
competent and compassionate drug education as well as rehabilitation
resources that reflect the mercy of Jesus Christ for the addicts,
their family and the community.

Although meth addiction is a physical and emotional issue, Holley
also presents addiction as a spiritual problem.

"Her message is one that Texarkana needs to hear," said Hodgson.

The event is free and Hodgson invites area residents to attend.

The church is at 5801 N. Kings Highway. For more information or
directions to the church call 903-831-5960.