NOVEMBER IS SUBSTANCE ABUSE AWARENESS MONTH

Since 1998, November has been recognized as Substance Abuse Awareness
Month in Bedford. During the next month, articles in the Bedford
Minuteman will provide information about prescription drug abuse by
youth and young adults, the use of harm reduction as a strategy to
deal with alcohol and youth, concerns about the new energy drinks,
and an opportunity to weigh in on community perceptions about alcohol
and drug use in Bedford.

Youth and Family Services bulletin boards at both the middle and high
school will have displays on smoking to coincide with the The Great
America Smokeout campaign held nationwide on Nov. 16, which
encourages smokers to stop smoking for the day. There will also be a
display table at each school at lunch time offering students
information about the dangers of smoking as well as ways to support
smokers in their efforts to quit or cut down.

In addition, Bedford Community Access Television will be running a
video tape called "Everything You Need To Know About Substance Abuse
in 22 Minutes."

Look for literature on alcohol and drug use, information about where
to get help and a variety of other informative brochures at John
Glenn Middle School on Nov. 7 when you go to vote.

Pamphlets on a wide range of topics are always available at the Youth
and Family Services office at Town Center.

Please take advantage of the opportunities to learn about what is
going on and to access information that can help you to have a safe community.