DRUG SUMMIT INVITES IDEAS

The emphasis at the Voices of Substance conference is on public
dialogue.

The second annual meeting will employ a new conversation technique
called "open space technology" to engage participants in exchanging
thoughts and ideas on substance use issues.

"It's an attempt to be more democratic and participatory," explained
Connie Carter, Voices of Substance spokesperson.

The technique allows people to identify several themes related to
substance use and break off into several smaller groups to focus on
one theme. People can move and address other themes at any time.

It's a fitting technique for a conference which invites people from
all sides of the issue -- police, service agencies, politicians and
users -- to come together to find solutions.

The Voices of Substance public dialogue will be held Wednesday, June
27 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Central Baptist Church, 833 Pandora Ave.

Dr. Benedikt Fischer from the Centre for Addictions Research of
British Columbia will give the keynote presentation.