Positive Alternatives

I share a quick story about a Statutory Summary Suspension Hearing as well as some reflections regarding my interview from two weeks past and my own thoughts about what was left unsaid regarding Social Hosting laws. https://www2.illinois.gov/ilcc/Education/pages/parental-responsibility/know-the-law.aspx

Taylor Dockter, who spends her days as Project Coordinator for Impact Spartanburg DFC and also a Senior Prevention Specialist for The Forrester Center for Behavioral Health, spends her spare time advocating for the victims of human trafficking. There are so many things that need our attention. The pain of Human Trafficking should be near the top of anyone's list. www.impactspartanburg.com  

In this episode the nicely dressed young lady heads off to jail while the alleged DUI Counselor who allegedly defrauded insurance companies is fighting back in court. It's always good to go home to a great wife and a great life as Retired Guy.

Larry Mishkin, Hoban Law Group, represents individuals who hope to open recreational marijuana stores in Illinois. I am sure you may find yourself shaking your head at times, but the important thing is to have open dialogue, and a calm mind. Our teens are worth it. Larry Mishkin - Hoban Law Group

In the episode we share words from past guests as to what single thing they would do to leave the wold a better place. Worthy of hearing again...and again.

The first few days of legal weed sales in Illinois made for good reading in the local newspapers. Time will tell the whole story. 

Yesterday I entered one of Illinois newly designated recreational marijuana stores and made a purchase. Why would I do such a thing that runs counter to my message? You will have to listen to find out.  

What seemed simple turned into exasperation; until I took a seat and looked at the problem from a different angle. Happy New Year my friends! www.positivealternatives.net

After all these years the memories remain close to the heart.   www.positivealternatives.net

Focus on REAL problems, not made up ones. We all will be better off for you sage choice.

Ben Pohl suffered serious injuries when he drove distracted 17 years ago during his teen age years. In an era when we are mesmerized by our smartphones, Ben reminds young people that there is more to driving distracted than simply locking your eyes onto your electronics when you drive. www.benpohlspeaks.com  

Nothing new under the sun. The first arrest for Marijuana in Illinois after January 1st for Driving Impaired will be big news. Those who are against the legalization of marijuana will point to the story as evidence of "I told you so". So sorry, but folks have been driving high for many years now on more than alcohol. What is old news will be made to appear as new news.

Felicia Miceli lives with Bella, who is her late son Louie's dog. She works day in and day out reminding parents and their children of the life and death struggle so many face with opioid and heroin addiction. Her son was first prescribed opioids when he was injured during high school athletics. Once the opioid took hold, he was never able to shake it. After years of fighting the disease he succumbed to it at the young age of 22. www.ltmfoundation.org  

Stress is insidious. When you lose a child the holiday season can be difficult. The decorations can be hard to put up. The favorite meal that he, or she, loved can be hard to prepare. The joy can be all too easily tempered by the memory and the wonder of what might have been. If you know a person who lost a child, give the gift of a story about their child that makes both of you smile. Give it freely and with love.

Not all who spend a career in helping others find the same path to success. It's our ability as humans to look at the same picture in different ways while still having the same goals at the end that lead us to a more successful result. If you're the smartest person in the room, you're in the wrong room. - Joel Pelland

The perception that alcohol is not as problematic as other drugs is pervasive. That perception is at the root of the challenge to save young lives...and old.

Our interview with Augie Ghilarducci who spent 13 years in prison and now returns to those same prisons to help inmates find a better path upon their own release. He uses his experience to teach successful skills and provide a second chance.   2nd Opportunity LLC

Thanksgiving Eve, the time when the students come home from college to connect with old friends is one of the big party times of the year. Have a plan, enjoy the camaraderie, and get home safely.

We don't talk AT Teens, we discuss ideas and issue WITH teens. It's called communication on a respectful level. This is a refreshing conversation about leadership, growth, and vision for a brighter future. Great things afoot at Glenbard East High School in Lombard, IL.   Rams Committed Twitter

In this episode of 5 Minute Thoughts I share some observations about the art of getting started. Remember, showing up and getting started is half the battle. Once you cross that threshold you are on your way.