GROUP URGES EDUCATION ABOUT DRUGS AND VIOLENCE

Members of Empowering Communities of America Inc. in Monroe have scheduled
an open house for 10 a.m. today to educate the community about alcohol,
drugs and tobacco abuse and violence.

The open house is at Berean Baptist Church's administration office
building, 1317 S. 10th St., Monroe.

Cliff Thomas, president of Empowering Communities of America, said his
organization is non-profit and plans to work with local law enforcement
agencies, schools, churches, judicial officers and community groups to wage
war on crime and drug abuse by educating the public on those issues.

"Our goal is to provide education in the empowerment zones of America, and
as a result make a difference in the way drugs, alcohol and tobacco are
viewed as well as reduce crime in our neighborhoods," Thomas said.

He said the group would also partner with businesses, other community
organizations and schools to provide education materials to the community
about drug prevention and violence.

Thomas said his organization would serve as a referral service for those
seeking assistance with substance or violence abuse.

The organization's mailing address is P.O. Box 4334 Monroe, La. 71211-4334.