Governor Robert Bentley recently proclaimed May 12-18 as Prevention Week in Alabama, coinciding with the National Prevention Week observance. Sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, NPW is dedicated to increasing awareness of, and action around, substance abuse and mental health issues. It serves to promote prevention efforts, provide education about behavioral health and strengthen community partnerships.

This year's theme, "Your voice. Your choice. Make a difference.," emphasizes that the prevention of substance abuse and promotion of mental health starts with the choices people make in their own lives.

Dr. Maranda Brown, director of the Office of Prevention Services in ADMH’s Division of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services, says, “The Office of Prevention Services is extremely excited to celebrate the 2nd annual NPW observance.

MONTGOMERY, AL (WSFA)- On Saturday, May 11, residents across America will be asked to help "Stamp Out Hunger" in the annual U.S. Postal Service Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive.

The one-day food drive is the nation's largest single-day food drive across America - and even includes Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands.

You can help stamp out hunger as easily as checking your mailbox.

Just leave a bag of non-perishable food items by your mailbox on Saturday, May 11. Your letter carrier will pick it up and the items will be delivered to a local food bank.

Examples of non-perishable food items include:

• Peanut butter
• Canned soup
• Canned meat and fish
• Canned vegetables, fruits and juices
• Boxed goods (such as cereal)
• Pasta and rice

The Troy University Alumni Association has launched its annual “Membership in May” campaign, an effort to keep more alumni engaged with University as a part of the Association, according to Alumni Affairs Director Faith Ward.

The Association currently serves alumni through 52 chapters in the United States and two international chapters located in China and Russia, Ward said.

“In 2012, Troy University celebrated 125 years of service to students in Alabama, the United States and around the world, and we look forward with anticipation to reaching even greater heights this year,” Ward said. “This is the perfect time for our alumni to celebrate our treasured past while looking forward to a bright future.”

The cost of an Alumni Association membership is: $25 per person annually or $500 for lifetime single membership and $750 lifetime couple membership. Payment plans are available for lifetime memberships.