You might call the Hidden in Plain Sight trailer an eye-opening attraction, according to Maggie Merchberger.
Merchberger, who works for the Michigan State University Extension/4H organization, teamed up with Sheriff Mike Bitnar from the Chippewa County Sheriff's Department back in September 2021 to create the trailer.
It's not your ordinary trailer. The inside is a replica of a child's bedroom ... from the bed, to the dresser and to the desk. It is very realistic.
But looking deeper into the portable bedroom, you will find hidden dangers that are becoming more popular with children.
Vape pens, pills in unmarked containers, and other dangerous items are hidden in areas that to parents may seem harmless.
They take the trailer to area schools and community events to open it up to teachers, parents and other guardians of children.
"Very eye-opening for everyone, especially teachers," Merchberger said. "Because we know the teachers and administrators are dealing with this on the front line. Vaping is huge in the schools."
"Teachers are very surprised on how kids could possibly hide these things in little places. It's been eye-opening for anybody who has stepped in that trailer. They say 'Wow, we really do need this (to make people aware).' "
This Thursday, April 6, from 4 to 7 p.m., you can help support the Hidden in Plain Sight trailer program by heading to the Elks Club at 1111 East Portage Ave. for a Burger Bash.
For $9, you get a tasty burger meal. You can eat in, or take it home to enjoy.
But there is a lot more to the evening.
There will be a silent auction and a raffle.
All proceeds from the event will be split between the Hidden in Plain Sight program and the Family Against Narcotics (FAN) organization.
