FIRST CHAPTER OF ANTI-DRUG GROUP IN GEORGIA MOBILIZES

The first Georgia chapter of Mothers Against Methamphetamine, an
anti-drug group, is set to hold its initial meeting next week in
Stockbridge.

Marilyn Stephens, 56, of Rex said she decided to start a Georgia
chapter of the anti-meth Christian volunteer group, known as MAMA,
after she had relatives abuse the drug.

"It's like watching somebody drown, and they won't even reach up for
help," she said.

The chapter meeting will be next at 7 p.m. on Aug. 26 at the Gospel
Outreach Church, 134 E. Atlanta Road.

Mothers Against Methamphetamine was founded last year by Mary F.
Holley, a gynecologist in Alabama. Holley started the group after her
brother, a methamphetamine abuser, committed suicide in 2000.

The group has 10 chapters in eight states.

MAMA is modeled on Mothers Against Drunk Driving, or MADD, which has
chapters across the country.

MADD has been successful in pressuring local authorities and
legislators to crack down on teen drinking and driving.

Stephens said that once the Georgia chapter of MAMA is organized,
speakers will start giving talks in area jails, churches and schools
about the dangers of meth manufacture and abuse.

Anyone interested in joining the organization can call Stephens at
770-389-0991 or visit www.mamasite.net.