KEEPING THE MOTIVATION

Okay everyone, we are all now aware that drug addiction is a concern
within our community. The town is buzzing and energetic conversations
are taking place discussing the problem. Now is the time to turn that
energy into a positive and do more than talk about the problem .

Drug abuse prevention and addiction counseling and support are key
factors in bringing a solution to substance abuse. The community has
already taken a step in that direction by forming the Barriere Against
Drugs group (B.A.D.). This group will soon start implementing many of
the programs and educational events they have planned.

However, we cannot sit back and let B.A.D. do all the work from here
on in. People need to keep informed - read, use the internet, speak
with knowledgeable people. Get all of the facts about drug abuse,
addiction, and prevention. Correct information is a wonderful thing
and it is available to anyone who will take the time to absorb it.

Why not turn up at the Feb. 24 presentation at the Barriere Secondary
School at 7 p.m. This presentation is the fourth in a series given by
School District 73's drug and alcohol program coordinator Angela
Lawrence. It's free and there are many good reasons why you should
attend.

Keep the momentum going and offer a helping hand to a friend or
neighbor that may have experienced, or is experiencing, the chaos that
drug abuse can cause within a family group. Look within your own
families lifestyles and decide if positive changes are required.

People within the area who may be suffering from addiction need a
supportive and compassionate response from this community. The road to
recovery is incredibly hard and no one should have to face it alone.
Knowing you are not shunned and that you have someone to turn to may
help these folks to make the most important decision of their
lifetime. To quit.

Tell anyone who will listen that Barriere and area are a great place
to live and raise your kids. We are a small community that has banded
together to address a substance abuse problem that is not unique to
our community. If you've done your homework you will know the problem
is universal.

What makes our community special is the support network we are
currently instigating to address the problem. A network that is
comprised of the whole community which will provide the necessary
tools required to make our community a safer place to raise a family
and an ideal place to live.