CRISIS ON DRUGS

Yesterday a representative of Big Island mayor Harry Kim brought to the
island advice on how to fight drug abuse on Kaua'i. He briefed Mayor Bryan
Baptiste and a gathering of about 50 persons involved in the fight against
drug abuse on Kaua'i.

His advice was to get the entire community involved, from government
agencies, the communities, the schools, churches. He also advised offering a
variety of programs because all drug users don't fit the same mold.

The gathering of county officials and elected officials, law officers and
others involved in the fight on drugs is a positive step ahead.

The main point of concern was apparently the appointment of a leader in the
fight against drugs.

Word also came that a representatives of the federal government will be here
next month to talk about the implementation of a Weed and Seed program. Weed
and Seed was successful in greatly reducing the drug abuse problems found in
the Chinatown section of Honolulu, and in other troubled areas of O'ahu.
Bringing this well-funded federal program to Kaua'i would be a big step
ahead in battling the spread of "ice" use and sales. The Weed and Seed
program first clears up the drug abuse, drug dealing and manufacturing
problems, then brings in aid to improve the affected community.

Hopefully by this summer a plan will be in action to fight drugs on Kaua'i,
and a leader named and in place to run it.