AIONA AIMS TO CUT ILLEGAL DRUG USE BY 10 PERCENT

A September Summit Will Include Delegates From Several Countries

Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona says he wants to reduce illegal drug use in
Hawaii by more than 10 percent over three years.

That is one of the major objectives for Aiona's drug control summit set for
Sept. 15-17 at the Sheraton-Waikiki Hotel. Aiona released a strategic plan
for the conference yesterday, saying the invitation-only gathering provides
a starting point to stop and treat those with drug problems in Hawaii.

"What we are about to embark upon through this summit, and what we hope to
produce through it, is a first," he said. "It is a new beginning."

He added, "We are trying to establish not only a system, but a mechanism
that can serve both as a model and ... something that the future generations
can used in whatever problem they may be confronted with."

The conference's goals will be to stop illicit drug use and underage
drinking before they start, treat drug and alcohol abusers, and intervene in
the distribution of illicit drugs.

Aiona said that will be done through focused discussion on four areas: model
legislation, systems improvement, financing or funding, and
community-government partnerships.

"And through those topics, hopefully, we are going to produce our final,
working strategic plan," he said.

Aiona said the conference will also discuss alcohol abuse and other drugs. A
House-Senate Committee on Ice is specifically investigating the crystal
methamphetamine problem, hoping to come up with legislative solutions next
session.

Legislators and the Lingle administration have said their separate efforts
complement each other.

Between 300 and 500 people are expected to attend the summit, including
representatives from Micronesia, Guam, Saipan, American Samoa and other
countries, Aiona said. Participants will be asked to complete an online
survey that will help focus the discussion during the summit.

While not open to the public, Aiona said the public will have input via the
Web site and through "talk story" sessions that he will lead statewide this
summer. The first will be from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. July 29 at Kapolei Middle
School.

Conference costs will be covered by sponsors. Aiona's plan, "Hawaii Drug
Control Strategy: A New Beginning," can be viewed online at
www.hawaii.gov/ltgov/drugsummit.