Submitted by Linda Gonzales Battle
Our third week PTI (Pre Trial Intervention) meeting was held on Monday, July 18, 2011 at 7 p.m. at the Riverdale Community Center.
The purpose of this meeting was to sponsor a program by the Solicitor’s office called PTI, which consists of “First Time Offenders” who have been charged with non-violent crimes. This is an eight week program that consists of various speakers who share their ideas. In these sessions, there is a question and answer session.
The meeting was opened by Betty Legette, Manning Baptist Church with prayer. She introduced the speakers.
There were two graduates. They gave a 250 word plus essay, which was well received. They were very appreciative to the staff and the speakers for their continual support. Ms. Legette gave them their certificate and congratulated them.
Betty Legette, Manning Baptist Church, talked about “Goals.” She stated that goals are requirements to keep you focused. Start with small goals, which she gave some examples. Surround yourself with positive people. You are here getting a second chance. Take advantage of the program and utilize it.
If you can’t make it here, then you are going to jail. This is a one time second chance. She reiterated her accomplishments to encourage the participants to take heed. Ms. Legette also encouraged them to think about their future. There were new participants who asked questions about her previous drug life, which she gave detailed information. She stated that if you keep the faith, pray on it and do the right thing, you will blossom. Give it to God and He will make a way. Whatever you did to get here, don’t do it again. In closing, Ms. Legette requested the participants to be here next Monday, 6:55 p.m. and in their seats as one of their goals. She reiterated small goals by keeping them simple.
Rev. Johnny Page, Mt. Sinai Church, talked about some of Ms. Legette’s comments. He stated that Jesus Christ died for us and gave us a second chance. He talked about how God gave him a second chance. God is in the midst of everything.
He hears our prayers regardless of what we did. In closing, Rev. Page stated that when someone gives you a second chance, take it because it is a blessing.
