Pubdate: Sun, 24 Sep 2006
Source: Gwinnett Daily Post, The (GA)
Copyright: 2006 Post-Citizen Media Inc.
Contact:  http://www.gwinnettdailypost.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2480
Author: Carole Townsend, Staff Correspondent
Note: Letters can run as long as 400 words.

METH FORUM AIMS TO EDUCATE

SNELLVILLE -- Crystal meth, a highly addictive and readily available 
illegal drug, has edged steadily eastward and is now what many 
consider an epidemic.  Meth gives the user an initial rush which is 
often followed by spiraling agitation and violence.

Gwinnett County has one of the highest percentages of crystal meth 
use in the country. In fact, one of the largest methamphetamine busts 
took place right here in March 2005. The street value of the seized 
substance was in the millions of dollars.

"In my mind, this is the most addictive drug on the market. Most 
people who do it get addicted to it," said Detective Tim Colgan of 
the Snellville Police Department. The materials and ingredients used 
to make the drug are inexpensive and readily available, according to 
Colgan. Pretty much anyone can afford to buy it -- even kids.

Area experts on methamphetamine use and its effects are joining 
forces and hosting a community forum tonight.

"Our main goal in holding this forum is to get the word out that this 
is a real problem right here in our community," said Ella Collier, 
parish nurse and director of Health and Wholeness at Snellville 
United Methodist Church. Snellville UMC, along with the Presbyterian 
Church of the Redeemer, is hosting the educational forum.

A representative from Metro Atlanta Recovery Residence, a 
psychiatrist from Summit Ridge and Detective Colgan will be on hand 
as well to participate in a discussion and question-and-answer 
session with adults and young people tonight.

"Many people, especially parents, aren't aware of the widespread use 
of this drug," Collier said. The drug is readily available in and 
around Gwinnett County, especially in schools. According to Colgan, 
some Gwinnett high school seniors estimate that about 50 percent of 
students in their class have used the drug.

The forum is being presented by Metro Atlanta Recovery Residence, 
Summit Ridge, the Snellville Police Department and the Snellville 
United Methodist church Health Ministry Team. Community parents, 
educators, health care professionals, students and anyone else who 
wants to learn more about methamphetamine use are invited to attend.

Snellville United Methodist Church is located at 2428 Main St. East 
in Snellville. For more information about the forum or about the 
church, call 770-972-9360.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Elaine