By Monique Roth

L’Observateur

LUTCHER – Person al testimonies of overcoming drug and alcohol addictions were heard and applauded as nearly 200 supporters of Get High on Life Inc. celebrated the 34th anniversary of the ministry recently with a fundraising dinner.

GHOL Founder Harold Keller, along with his wife Jeanne, began the ministry in 1980 in response to concerns about the growing drug problem in the River Parishes. Keller said the ministry is aimed at reaching out to the lonely and hurting in the community.

“It’s one of the most satisfying and rewarding things I’ve ever done,” said Keller about GHOL.

Floyd Arnaud, director of Freedom Challenge Ministries in Bastrop, introduced two of his program’s many participants to the dinner crowd and invited them to share their personal, redemptive stories. Freedom Challenge Ministries and Get High on Life work closely together.

Rex Rugg and Mar cus David both spoke of the challenges associated with overcoming addictions.

David told the crowd all of the friends he used to associate with either died of drug overdoses or suicide and that he was grateful for the help he has received to turn his life around.

“Thank you for supporting Get High of Life,” Rugg said. “It works.”

Geoffrey Michel served as master of ceremonies for the night, and Michael Hoover performed several musical selections. Get High on Life Committee Chairman Danny Louque opened up the dinner with opening remarks, and Ronny Michel capped off the night’s talks and testimonies with her reflections of the ministry’s purpose. Pastor Paul Naylor of First Baptist LaPlace offered up the closing prayer.

The dinner was cook   ed and served by Kenneth Foret, Moose Trosclair, Boolee Rous  sel, Kenneth For et Jr., CJ Brock and Larry Bland.