Amherst Drug Court commemorates 12 years of success

The Amherst Drug Court & Therapeutic Foundation will host a reception in recognition of the Amherst Drug Treatment Court's 12th anniversary at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 15, at the Sonoma Grille, 5010 Main St., near Interstate 290, Snyder.

Founded in 1996, the Amherst Drug Court has sought to diminish substance abuse, crime and recidivism through a program of intense supervision, treatment and judicial monitoring.

Under the direction of presiding Drug Court Judge Mark G. Farrell, the Amherst Drug Court has graduated more than 1,700 participants, 80 percent of which have proved to be successful by not relapsing into drug or alcohol use.

Foundation President Jim Loughran announced the following award recipients: Judy Munzi of Jewish Family Services as Counselor of the Year; Maureen Wilk of White Deer Run Treatment Centers for her role as treatment Coordinator; Guy Marlette, Amherst Town Council member as past president of the Amherst Drug & Therapeutic Court Foundation; the Jolley Boys Organization as Community Supporter of the Year; and Michael Militello and Vincent Carriere, owners of Sonoma Grille and Restaurant as Business Supporters of the Year.

The tax deductible donation is $75 per individual or $125 per couple. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 390-8989.