Pubdate: Tue, 04 Oct 2005
Source: Prince Albert Daily Herald (CN SN)
Copyright: 2005 Prince Albert Daily Herald
Contact:  http://www.paherald.sk.ca/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1918

METH ISSUE STILL NEEDS FOCUS  	

Crystal meth is a problem that must have more than just 15 minutes of 
fame. Earlier this year, there was a true buzz around the topic, as 
media at all levels were running stories of how the drug was 
impacting communities.

Prince Albert was no exception, and the community turned out in huge 
numbers for the first community rally on crystal meth in late June.

The stories on meth are less frequent now, and the public attention 
has been split to other matters. In a sense, this is natural. There 
are many worthy topics competing for coverage.

But we are still hopeful for a healthy turnout at the second 
community rally on crystal meth planned for Wednesday at the Prince 
Albert Exhibition Centre. The rally actually begins at 7 p.m., but 
members of the public are invited to come down early to check out 
displays and get information from experts in prevention and treatment.

The city of Prince Albert was a leader in the province in coming up 
with a comprehensive strategy for dealing with meth and other 
substance abuse issues. Now the community must show it has the 
dedication and determination to see this long-term project through to the end.

Some of the buzz around this topic has died down, but the community's 
determination to break the chains of crystal meth in the community should not.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Elizabeth Wehrman