VALLEY GETS A DRUG EDUCATION

After last month's drug bust near Wilmer, the RCMP are educating the
valley about drugs.

On Monday, February 15th, more than 60 people attended two Drug Safety
and Awareness Presentations, conducted by the RCMP.

"We had teachers, social workers, law enforcement, heath-care
providers, volunteers, youth workers, politicians and even some
agencies from Cranbrook. The sessions ran over the estimated time due
to interest and questions," said Constable Derek Balderston.

The talk covered drug use in the valley, signs of drug production,
distribution and use, and safe practices for workers who might
encounter drugs. Constable Derek Balderston coordinated the
presentation, and he was joined by an RCMP Drug Recognition Expert and
a speaker from the RCMP's Drugs and Organized Crime Awareness Service.

"We left the presentation with one main message: get involved in
reducing substance abuse through education and time. There is no
business or agency in the valley that is not in some way affected by
substance abuse. And every organization can help," Constable
Balderston said.