Kathy Grogan hopes that many people will decide to turn themselves in and “go to jail,” and she invites residents of the Parkland area to join the incarcerated population. She also hopes they will be able to post $300 in bail to earn their release during a possible three-hour confinement inside the cardboard mock detention center at The White Magnolia (formerly known as Elizabeth Hall), located at 210 E. Woodlawn Dr. in Leadington.

Grogan is the founder and executive director of New Beginnings Community Services, Inc. The organization serves the community through the Grief and Loss Support Group. She explained that this event is their annual “Bail or Jail” fundraiser, with proceeds going directly to provide the financial support needed by the non-profit program.

This year marks the program’s 25th anniversary, and despite the cessation of their medical equipment program, the need for financial support remains. “We have spent less because we don’t have to make purchases for repair parts or medical supplies–because we retired that program–but donations have also declined because supporters no longer contribute in response to medical equipment requests,” Grogan said.

Participants or “defendants” have already been selected and should “turn themselves in” between the hours of 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on July 14 at The White Magnolia, or transportation will be provided to “take them into custody.” Upon arrival, mugshots will be taken and their humorous mock “charges” will be announced. Each person will stand before former Judge Sandra Martinez, who will “sentence the defendant” to three hours of mock jail time. The newly incarcerated individuals are allowed to make calls on their cell phones to raise “bail money” to secure their release. When the defendant collects $300 — even if it is accomplished before the three-hour time limit — they are released and free to go, with the satisfaction of knowing that they have helped support the worthwhile effort of the New Beginnings program.

“It’s all done in good fun and supports a great cause that has helped many people over the years. We sometimes receive donations, but the ‘Bail or Jail’ is something we count on for funding to keep things going.”

Organizers encourage community members to donate financially if they are able, noting that contributions do not require one’s involvement in the mock jail scenario. Donations of all sizes are welcome, and the event is open to the public to watch the legal shenanigans, regardless of their participation in the jail component.

Community support has been pivotal over the years, with numerous local businesses and organizations stepping in to assist. The program has established strong partnerships along the way. Grogan said some partners who stand out in her mind include Belgrade State Bank, O’Neil Tax Service, Boyer Funeral Home, Christine’s Cafe, the Daily Journal, US Tool, Parkland Health Center, B104/KFMO, First State Community Bank, NHC, Mineral Area Office Supply, Sherrill Chiropractic in Bonne Terre, and the Bonne Terre Chamber of Commerce.

“They have created a community that has contributed both financial and logistical support. We are grateful to be a part of such a caring community,” Grogan said. “This fundraiser not only helps sustain our program but also builds relationships among those walking a similar path of grief.”

Grogan said that the grief and support group is a community-based group open to anyone 18 years of age or older who has lost a loved one. She said they’ve never done a count, but she is sure they have helped thousands of people find their way toward healing in their grief journey. The group began in 2001 and has continually provided support to people experiencing grief. The goal is to provide a supportive, accepting, understanding, and confidential environment that promotes healing. Although each loss is unique, many group members through the years have found it helpful to be with others who understand what they are feeling, because those on a grief journey experience many similar emotions and struggles.

The grief and loss support group currently meets weekly from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Wednesdays at the Belgrade State Bank located at 414 N. State St. in Desloge. A large, private conference room is reserved for the meetings to ensure the privacy of group members, who are seeking hope and meaning in living with loss, in the company of others.

“There is no cost involved at all with the grief and loss support program, but we do have expenses involved with running the program and providing materials for participants,” she said.

Parkland residents who wish to contribute to New Beginnings’ mission of making a positive difference are invited to make a financial donation, volunteer their time, and keep the group’s efforts in their thoughts and prayers. Grogan can be reached at 573-760-3609 and can provide information and answer questions about the program.

Those who wish to contribute financially can send checks made payable to New Beginnings. The mailing address is PO Box 132, Park Hills, MO 63601.

Lisa Brotherton-Barnes is a staff writer for the Daily Journal. She can be reached by email at [email protected].



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