METH FORUM AIMS TO EDUCATE

SNELLVILLE -- Crystal meth, a highly addictive and readily available
illegal drug, has edged steadily eastward and is now what many
consider an epidemic. Meth gives the user an initial rush which is
often followed by spiraling agitation and violence.

Gwinnett County has one of the highest percentages of crystal meth
use in the country. In fact, one of the largest methamphetamine busts
took place right here in March 2005. The street value of the seized
substance was in the millions of dollars.

"In my mind, this is the most addictive drug on the market. Most
people who do it get addicted to it," said Detective Tim Colgan of
the Snellville Police Department. The materials and ingredients used
to make the drug are inexpensive and readily available, according to
Colgan. Pretty much anyone can afford to buy it -- even kids.

Area experts on methamphetamine use and its effects are joining
forces and hosting a community forum tonight.

"Our main goal in holding this forum is to get the word out that this
is a real problem right here in our community," said Ella Collier,
parish nurse and director of Health and Wholeness at Snellville
United Methodist Church. Snellville UMC, along with the Presbyterian
Church of the Redeemer, is hosting the educational forum.

A representative from Metro Atlanta Recovery Residence, a
psychiatrist from Summit Ridge and Detective Colgan will be on hand
as well to participate in a discussion and question-and-answer
session with adults and young people tonight.

"Many people, especially parents, aren't aware of the widespread use
of this drug," Collier said. The drug is readily available in and
around Gwinnett County, especially in schools. According to Colgan,
some Gwinnett high school seniors estimate that about 50 percent of
students in their class have used the drug.

The forum is being presented by Metro Atlanta Recovery Residence,
Summit Ridge, the Snellville Police Department and the Snellville
United Methodist church Health Ministry Team. Community parents,
educators, health care professionals, students and anyone else who
wants to learn more about methamphetamine use are invited to attend.

Snellville United Methodist Church is located at 2428 Main St. East
in Snellville. For more information about the forum or about the
church, call 770-972-9360.