Danita Morgan attends the Problem Solving Court Graduation, along with State’s Attorney William Glasgow. –Photo submitted.
Glasgow Announces 27 Participants Graduate Will County Problem Solving Court
Alumna tells audience that before entering program,
“I was absolutely certain my addiction was the end for me.”
State’s Attorney James Glasgow announced 27 people graduated from the Will County Problem Solving Courts in a January 19 ceremony at the Jacob Henry Mansion in Joliet. To date, 796 individuals have turned their lives around through the diversionary court program.
“The 27 individuals graduating today are to be commended for successfully embarking on their roads to recovery. In reading the biographies of these dedicated graduates, it struck me how they all talked about plans for their futures. Through this program, they have a renewed hope,” Glasgow said. “Although they are now alumni, we will continue to support them as they continue in their lifetime journeys. They are members of the Problem Solving Courts family.”
The ceremony honored five Veterans Court graduates, from Joliet, Aurora, Beecher, Wilmington, and Plainfield; 11 Drug Court graduates hailing from Joliet, Marseilles, Crete, Bolingbrook, and New Lenox; and 11 Mental Health Court graduates, who hail from Lockport, Romeoville, Joliet, Shorewood, Plainfield, Braidwood, and Homer Glen.
In addition to remarks by Glasgow and Associate Circuit Court Judge Fred Harvey, Problem Solving Courts alumna Danita Morgan of Braidwood spoke about her experience. Morgan graduated from Mental Health Court in January 2022. Here is an excerpt of her speech:
“There once was a point in my life that I was absolutely certain my addiction was the end for me. I felt worthless. I messed up too much to be forgiven. There was no going back. It was my life and would be my death. After suffering the greatest pain any human being could feel with the death of my son, I wanted it to end me. I tried to end me. I failed. When I was lost, I didn’t think I could be found, and I didn’t want to be. Then I was introduced to the problem solving court….
“Once someone takes the first steps to reconnect themselves to who they truly are and get clear, it’s scary. To feel emotions again. To not know what they are anymore. To doubt every thought and action. To go ahead on into uncomfortability and the absolute unknown. To face the horrible things we have done to those who love us so much. To relearn the coping skills needed for a healthy and happy life. The program assists in that process. However, the support doesn’t stop after graduation.
“Some of you are probably planning your relapse at this very moment. To those who are, I beg of you to reconsider. Fully trust the support you have received from this program will continue after graduation. You are absolutely worth more than becoming another statistic.”
Morgan has worked with the Will County Substance Use Initiatives Team in the Will County Health Department since graduating from the program. She also is working to complete her internship with the Braidwood Health Area Community Coalition to become a Certified Recovery Support Specialist.
Classifieds
Area News
Rep. Haas: Brickstone Brewery March Local Business Spotlight
Spread the loveFor her March local business spotlight, State Rep. Jackie Haas recognized Brickstone Brewery in Bourbonnais. Rep. Haas spent time touring the business and presented the owners with a certificate of appreciation for their contributions to the community. “I am honored to recognize Brickstone Brewery for my March Local Business Spotlight,” said Rep. Haas.…
Manhattan-Elwood Quilt Group ‘Rescue ME’ Crafters’ Resale
Spread the loveMark your calendars – we are back for our 10th “Rescue ME Resale.” The Manhattan-Elwood Quilt Group is hosting its Rescue ME Crafters’ Resale on Saturday, April 13, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Manhattan Township Office, 230 Wabash Street, in Manhattan. This resale will feature quilting, sewing, and needlework supplies.…
Crete Library News
Spread the loveThursday, March 28 Manga Club for Teens, from 3 – 4 p.m., grades sixth/12th: Join us to discuss “Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Deserted Island Diary: Vol. 1,” by Kokonasu Rumba. Copies are available at the library. Film Club, from 5:30 – 8 p.m., adults: Enjoy watching “Brooklyn” on the library’s big screen, with…
Manteno Announces ‘Spring Showcase: Garden and Arts Festival’
Spread the loveSpring is in the air, and the Village of Manteno is proud to announce its first ever “Spring Showcase: A Garden and Arts Festival” set for Sunday, May 5, from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. The Spring Showcase, an all-day community celebration of spring and the arts, was created with the intent to…
Dr. Joe Zampillo New MCHS Principal
Spread the loveEmbracing tradition, inspiring excellence: A proud alumnus returns to lead. Marian Catholic is thrilled to announce the appointment of Dr. Joe Zampillo, Class of ’89, as the school’s ninth principal for the upcoming 2024-2025 academic year. The decision follows an extensive national search conducted in collaboration with Carney, Sandoe, and Associates, aimed at…
Crete Library News
Spread the loveThursday, March 21 Preschool Pals, from 1 – 2 p.m., ages four/five: During this independent storytime experience, children enjoy spending time with other preschoolers, while listening to stories, learning songs and fingerplays, and playing games. Register. Knot Just for Knitters, from 6 – 7:30 p.m., ages 11/adult: Join us to socialize while working…
Semi-Annual Craft Show at Veteran’s Home May 3-4
Spread the loveMark your calendars now for the semi-annual Manteno Illinois Veterans’ Home Craft Show on Friday and Saturday, May 3 – 4, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., in Veterans Hall at the home. There will be craft and décor items for all seasons, patriotic, beach, and holiday items, wreaths, garden and yard décor,…
Rep. Haas Honors Local Women at Emerging Women Leaders Event
Spread the loveRecently, State Rep. Jackie Haas welcomed Lamekia Davis and Liz Gibson to the Emerging Women Leaders Event in Springfield. The event consisted of a brunch, listening session, and informational seminars from other women in leadership roles. Rep. Haas moderated the ‘Put Your Oxygen Mask on First’ breakout session, which focused on maintaining positive…
Crete Library News
Spread the loveThursday, March 14 Preschool Pals, from 1 – 2 p.m., ages four/five: During this independent storytime experience, children enjoy spending time with other preschoolers, while listening to stories, learning songs and fingerplays, and playing games. Register. Anime Club, from 3 – 4:30 p.m., grades sixth/12th: Join us for a screening of “MUSHI-SHI.” Snacks…
DeLuca Continues Work to Lower Property Taxes
Spread the loveIntroduces plan to prohibit taxpayer-funded guaranteed income programs. As part of his continued efforts to lower property taxes and the need to responsibly manage taxpayer dollars, State Rep. Anthony DeLuca, D-Chicago Heights, has introduced a measure that would prohibit governments from using taxpayer money to fund guaranteed income programs. “We must focus our…
Preserving Legacies of Love Key Part of February
Spread the loveWe all strive to be remembered for making a difference, and for showing others we appreciate all they have done to help us be successful. I had two important opportunities to show that legacy of love during the past month. As I have written here many times, I am proud to be…
CM 201-U Holds First Strategic Planning Workgroup Meeting
Spread the loveCrete-Monee School District 201-U held its first Strategic Planning Workgroup meeting on Thursday, February 22, with approximately 50 members participating. During the session, participants discussed the importance of strategic planning, the process that will be used to create the strategic plan, and the district’s mission and vision. The group also reviewed feedback from…