DISCUSSION FOCUSES ON DRUG ADDICTION

Parents Of Crystal Meth User Shot By Police To Lead Talk

The parents of a man struggling with an addiction to crystal
methamphetamine who was shot by police in August after going on a
rampage are participating in a discussion at the public library today
for anyone affected by drug addiction.

Linda Duvall and John Loewy will chair the presentation.

Their son Jesse Allan Loewy was given a 17-month jail sentence last
month after he stole a truck at gunpoint and drove through traffic
lights and stop signs, forcing pedestrians to jump to safety. He
stopped a home on Dufferin Avenue and ran inside. Officers surrounded
the home, and he emerged with a sawed-off .22-calibre rifle, pointing
it at police. He ignored orders to drop it and was shot.

Today's meeting will look at what Saskatonians can do about drug
problems in the city. It will address issues such as what support
services are available and what steps the community can take to combat
the problems.

Nichola Hall, chair of From Grief to Action, a non-profit group
working to improve the lives of Vancouver drug users, will speak. The
group began in 1999 as a way to help those with a family member or
friend suffering from drug addiction.

There will also be presentations by members of the Saskatoon Police
Service, the Saskatoon health district and a doctor from the city
methadone clinic.

The presentations begin at 2 p.m. in the downtown Frances Morrison
branch auditorium.