Pubdate: Wed, 25 Jan 2006
Source: Agassiz Harrison Observer (CN BC)
Copyright: 2006 Agassiz Observer
Contact:  http://www.agassizharrisonobserver.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1344
Author: Bill Turner
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/dare.htm (D.A.R.E.)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/hr.htm (Harm Reduction)

COMMUNITES OPENING EYES TO DISCOVER DRUG ABUSE SOLUTIONS

Editor,

Sometimes we in the Social Work field, whether that be addictions, child 
protection, employment services or any other of a wide variety of social 
challenges, may appear a bit cynical about society in general. This is due 
to the fact that every day we put on our shoes we enter the world with one 
single solitary objective: to assist others in solving their life's 
problems. As a result of my chosen field, which I love dearly, I sometimes 
fail to see the positive things that are going on with-in the community 
including what our kids are up to.

It gives me sincere pleasure to report to the community as a whole, 
especially to our kids, that positive choices are made and made 
consistently. At our most recent School District 78 meeting where we are 
developing an extensive Drug & Alcohol program for next year's curriculum, 
our guest speaker was Sherry Mumford, Manager for Addictions, Fraser Health 
Authority. Ms. Mumford produced the results of a D/A survey we conducted at 
AESS last spring.

The results of this survey shows that we have many more kids NOT involved 
in drug and alcohol then there are actually participating. In fact, out of 
the entire Fraser Valley, our kids are number one in making good choices! 
Now, is that cool or what!

In an attempt to continue this trend within our very unique community, 
action plans are being implemented all over the place to educate both kids 
and adults (they're the tough ones!).

For instance the D/A Community Information event, taking place at Harrison 
Community Hall Feb 23rd is an excellent example. We have arranged for 
positive guest speakers who will be sharing positive information. NO, it is 
not a Meth Forum! This is a solution-focused event that we hope you will 
take part in.

Our guest speakers include:

Sherry Mumford, Manager of Addictions, Fraser Health Authority. Sherry will 
be "educating" you on topics such as harm reduction, government funding 
challenges and possibly past survey trends.

Wes Neumeier, Superintendent of School District 78 will be sharing the 
positive action that is taking place at this time in preparation for next 
years curriculum. Wes may also inform you of the many community partner 
groups involved in this substantial project.

Corporal Scott Rintoul, a 15 year member of the Vancouver RCMP Drug Unit 
will provide for us a "crystal ball" look at our future if were to choose 
to ignore this topic in our community, which we don't. Corporal Rintoul is 
a very well "educated" member of the RCMP and one of the most sought after 
speakers in the Province of BC. We are very fortunate to have him take part 
in "educating" us.

In addition to the above, Harrison Mayor Leo Facio and Agassiz Mayor Lorne 
Fisher may share around the immense support both councils have put forth 
including possible by-law amendments regarding grow-ops, sale of grow-op 
equipment, sale of drug paraphernalia such as crack pipes etc.

And if this it not enough, we will also have a number of displays from 
DARE, Meth Watch, Drug Sample Board and possibly other community groups 
that support positive change in our very unique corner of the world. Watch 
for more info coming soon!

I am very grateful for you taking the time to gain a bit more "education" 
and I sincerely hope to see you on February 23rd.

In closing, on behalf of the community in whole, CONGRATULATIONS to our 
GREAT KIDS that are making GREAT CHOICES!!! See you on the 23rd of February.

Bill Turner

Addictions Manager/Counsellor

Agassiz/Harrison Community Services
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MAP posted-by: Jo-D