COMMUNITES OPENING EYES TO DISCOVER DRUG ABUSE SOLUTIONS

Editor,

Sometimes we in the Social Work field, whether that be addictions, child
protection, employment services or any other of a wide variety of social
challenges, may appear a bit cynical about society in general. This is due
to the fact that every day we put on our shoes we enter the world with one
single solitary objective: to assist others in solving their life's
problems. As a result of my chosen field, which I love dearly, I sometimes
fail to see the positive things that are going on with-in the community
including what our kids are up to.

It gives me sincere pleasure to report to the community as a whole,
especially to our kids, that positive choices are made and made
consistently. At our most recent School District 78 meeting where we are
developing an extensive Drug & Alcohol program for next year's curriculum,
our guest speaker was Sherry Mumford, Manager for Addictions, Fraser Health
Authority. Ms. Mumford produced the results of a D/A survey we conducted at
AESS last spring.

The results of this survey shows that we have many more kids NOT involved
in drug and alcohol then there are actually participating. In fact, out of
the entire Fraser Valley, our kids are number one in making good choices!
Now, is that cool or what!

In an attempt to continue this trend within our very unique community,
action plans are being implemented all over the place to educate both kids
and adults (they're the tough ones!).

For instance the D/A Community Information event, taking place at Harrison
Community Hall Feb 23rd is an excellent example. We have arranged for
positive guest speakers who will be sharing positive information. NO, it is
not a Meth Forum! This is a solution-focused event that we hope you will
take part in.

Our guest speakers include:

Sherry Mumford, Manager of Addictions, Fraser Health Authority. Sherry will
be "educating" you on topics such as harm reduction, government funding
challenges and possibly past survey trends.

Wes Neumeier, Superintendent of School District 78 will be sharing the
positive action that is taking place at this time in preparation for next
years curriculum. Wes may also inform you of the many community partner
groups involved in this substantial project.

Corporal Scott Rintoul, a 15 year member of the Vancouver RCMP Drug Unit
will provide for us a "crystal ball" look at our future if were to choose
to ignore this topic in our community, which we don't. Corporal Rintoul is
a very well "educated" member of the RCMP and one of the most sought after
speakers in the Province of BC. We are very fortunate to have him take part
in "educating" us.

In addition to the above, Harrison Mayor Leo Facio and Agassiz Mayor Lorne
Fisher may share around the immense support both councils have put forth
including possible by-law amendments regarding grow-ops, sale of grow-op
equipment, sale of drug paraphernalia such as crack pipes etc.

And if this it not enough, we will also have a number of displays from
DARE, Meth Watch, Drug Sample Board and possibly other community groups
that support positive change in our very unique corner of the world. Watch
for more info coming soon!

I am very grateful for you taking the time to gain a bit more "education"
and I sincerely hope to see you on February 23rd.

In closing, on behalf of the community in whole, CONGRATULATIONS to our
GREAT KIDS that are making GREAT CHOICES!!! See you on the 23rd of February.

Bill Turner

Addictions Manager/Counsellor

Agassiz/Harrison Community Services