DRUG ABUSE IS NOT JUST AN URBAN PROBLEM

No one would doubt that the drug problem in Georgia is serious. Yet there
is a tendency to focus on only larger cities, like Atlanta, as the source
of much of the drug trafficking and drug abuse. But the unfortunate fact
is, every town in Georgia is affected by this nationwide crisis.

The Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University recently
released the results of a study on drug abuse in rural America. They found
that rural 8th graders were 34 percent more likely to smoke marijuana, 83
percent more likely to use crack cocaine, and 104 percent more likely to
have used amphetamines in the last month than their urban counterparts.

Could YOUR son or daughter soon become one of these statistics?

Closer to home, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation's Uniform Crime Reports
show that in 1999 there were 32,166 drug arrests outside of Atlanta and
Fulton County. That's 90 arrests per day! Keep in mind that these
statistics are arrests only, and the number of drug-users is much higher.

The fact is, something can be done about it, and you can help. The first
step is to become aware that there is a problem on our own doorstep. When
we acknowledge that fact and take personal responsibility for the solution,
we can effect change for the better! Help to solve this problem by
educating your friends and family. Together we can make a difference!

Debra MacIntyre, ND