TOWN MEETING TARGETS NARCOTICS

RICHLANDS, Va. - Six months ago Shannon Smith was fighting a drug addiction
that was creating an uncertain future for her. Today, however, the
22-year-old Richlands native has recovered and is actively seeking a
nursing degree. Smith's story is just one of many successes that have
resulted from a combined effort of Tazewell County law enforcement and
medical personnel over the past year. With Smith in attendance, these
officials gathered for the third of a series of town meetings on Monday
night at Richlands Middle School.

The town-meeting format, which was previously held in Tazewell and
Bluefield, Va., was designed to answer the questions of concerned parents
and citizens dealing with drug abuse at the local level.

"This started off with the OxyContin epidemic. That was the driving force
behind this," said Jane Peay, Director of Substance Abuse for the
Cumberland Mountain Community Services Board. She added, "this has evolved.
A lot has helped especially law enforcement and additional treatment
options coming into the area."

One of the individuals spearheading the law enforcement effort is Dennis
Lee, Tazewell County Common-wealth's Attorney. Lee stated he's confident
that the OxyContin epidemic is fading, but there is still the threat of new
drugs hitting the area in the future.

"With OxyContin we've hopefully seen the worst of it. Through the efforts
of law enforcement we're seeing a decrease, but it's persistent," stated
Lee. "We want the community to be aware of the drugs we see on the
horizons. Ecstasy and club drugs are in Richmond and could come this way."

Whatever direction the drug usage problem goes in the future, Smith hopes
that people will not give up on those addicted.

"City officials sometimes look at them as criminals, but I look at them
with compassion," said Smith.