Pubdate: Tue, 11 May 2004
Source: Drayton Valley Western Review (CN AB)
Copyright: 2004 Bowes Publishers Limited
Contact:  http://www.draytonvalleywesternreview.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/980
Author: Carol Maduik
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?135 (Drug Education)

ANTI-DRUG BOOKLET AIMED TO MAKE MONEY

Businesses wishing to support anti-drug education should think twice before 
advertising in a booklet called the Community Drug Alert Program.

SMIT Consulting, an advertising and promotions company based in Edmonton, 
is soliciting business all across the province and locally by telephone.

The company has been a satisfactory member of the Better Business Bureau 
since 1994, but is producing the publication as a money making venture.

"Although it is legal, this is a for profit business. They are supplying a 
product, but there won't be enough booklets to make a dent in the drug 
problem," said Norma Block, community mobilizer for Building Safer Communities.

Ten thousand copies will be distributed to schools across the province.

Block said it is doubtful any of the booklets will make it to Drayton Valley.

"There won't even be enough to supply schools in Edmonton," she said.

It is geared to junior high students, with stories about teenagers' real 
life drug experiences.

With no cap on advertising in the publication, there is no way of knowing 
how many stories the booklet will have, Block said.

"This is a money maker for them."

She advised people to contribute to the anti-drug movement locally by 
making donations to a number of agencies in Drayton Valley.

"They can donate to DARE, Parent to Parent, Brighter Futures, the Metis 
Association or support children's organizations like sports teams or Girl 
Guides that offer a positive alternative to drugs and keep the money here, 
locally.

"People can get involved with their schools as well."

Block urged everyone to get educated so their anti-drug contributions can 
make maximum positive impact.

Anyone wanting more information can call FCSS or contact Building Safer 
Communities at 514-2236.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom