ANTI-DRUG PROGRAM IN SMITHS FALLS NEXT WEEK

SMITHS FALLS -- About 1,800 Grade 4 and 5 students from the
tri-county area will receive a supercharged message next week during
the seventh annual Racing Against Drugs program.

The event, which features pit stops at some 20 stations around an
arena floor, alternates annually between Brockville and Smiths Falls.

This year it takes place at the Smiths Falls Youth Arena with morning
and afternoon sessions from Tuesday to Thursday next week.

Organizers are targeting a slightly younger age group this year. The
switch from Grades 5 and 6 avoids a conflict with Grade 6 testing
preparations and also reflects a desire to reach a younger audience,
said a spokesman from the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit.

She noted other programs with a similar message are in place for
senior elementary and high school students.

The pit stops feature presentations and displays by police,
firefighters, paramedics, public health officials, addictions
agencies and other community partners.

The presentations are aimed at demonstrating the benefit of making
healthy choices as opposed to taking risks.

Representatives of the sponsoring organizations will attend Tuesday's
opening ceremony at 1:30 p.m. after observing the interaction at some pit stops.