Living in Transition

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L.I.T.E. operates with the belief that “we’re all in recovery from something.” The meeting house is a safe environment for former inmates to get the love and support they need to help them reintegrate into society.

The community is “membership driven,” meaning there are certain expectations that need to be met before and after membership. Accountability is essential to recovery and successful reintegration into society. These expectations include: participating in a weekly Recovery Circle, helping with chores in and around the building and working to bring others along the same path. They ask that people abstain from substances and alcohol for the 24 hours immediately preceding attendance and participation.

Chris Cotton said, “Our longterm vision is to have L.I.T.E. in every town and corner of this county and then eventually start going across county lines.”

Tammy Cotton added, “What works for one person doesn’t always work for everybody. Our goal is for nobody to fall through the cracks. If we can’t help them, we’ll find someone who can.”

Chris Cotton teaches a class called FreeWriters where inmates receive a composition notebook and are given writing prompts to express their feelings and ideas. He said, “This really helps break the ice. Many of them have never felt empowered to express an idea or think outside the box. They’re writing prompts I never thought of that are so deep and personal.” Kelly Bradley helps teach the women’s FreeWriters classes. FreeWriters was founded by former prosecutor Nate Johnson in Hennepin County, Minn. pressed. To register for this event, email nwdixieday@gmail. com.

Chris Cotton said he was just talking with an inmate who gets out in August and told him to come to the meeting house.

New this year will be a boat show on the Mermaid Festival Grounds. Take a look at the newest models of boats for 2023.

Local merchants join in on the fun with specials and sales you don’t want to miss out on. Look for other fun events happening throughout town like the scavenger hunt, corn hole tournament and at Tangibles Resale and Consignment.

The Dixie Boat will be running and you don’t want to miss this boat. A guided of Webster Lake is fun for the whole family, or just enjoy the scenery as you listen to the paddle churning water.

The Chamber is looking forward to seeing you at Dixie Day. Watch their Facebook page for updates as more exciting happenings may occur.

The L.I.T.E. Recovery Cafe at the meeting house will open in August and be open from 3-7 p.m. Tuesdays, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fridays and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. Each session will consist of Recovery Circles, a meal, school of recovery, resource meetings and socializing. Access to computers, Wi-Fi and connections are provided for members.

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