Pubdate: Sat, 18 Nov 2006
Source: Nanaimo News Bulletin (CN BC)
Copyright: 2006, BC Newspaper Group
Contact:  http://www.nanaimobulletin.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/948
Author: Darrell Bellaart

FORUM TACKLES DRUG ABUSE ISSUE

Tackling Drug Abuse Is the Theme of a Public Forum at Beban Park on 
Tuesday (Nov. 21).

The forum, put on by Nanaimo Alcohol and Drug Addiction Committee and 
NADAC affiliates, coincides with Addiction Awareness week, which runs 
Nov. 21-25.

"The purpose is to have a physical event that demonstrates to the 
community that it's worth being aware of this issue and there's some 
good work going on around it," says Steve Arnett, Nanaimo Youth 
Services Association executive director.

This is the third such community forum. Last year's event drew large 
crowds concerned about the threat of crystal meth, which is growing 
in use in some Lower Mainland communities.

NADAC will officially unveil and seek comment on its 30-page 
strategic planning document at this year's forum.

Among the goals of that plan is to provide youth objective 
information without preaching to them.

"What we've learned with young people, as soon as you do that their 
ears close down and their eyes glaze over," Arnett said.

Parents want to give their children information, but many feel 
they're in the dark.

"A kid might say I think I'm going to try crystal meth, or something 
else, and they can go to this website and find out what the dangers 
are and what the effects are, and what to do if you're wired for 
sound." Arnett said.

The planning document goes online Nov. 21 at www.nysa.bc.ca/. Drug 
information will also be made available.

Other events during the week include an information booth at 
Woodgrove Centre, all day Saturday (Nov. 25) and an advertising 
campaign reminding the public that NADAC is there for those who need it.

The forum is open to the public and takes place Nov. 21 at Beban Park 
social lounge, from 7-9 p.m.

Meanwhile, the Snuneymuxw Health Centre is hosting a dinner and a 
one-hour performance by Students Working Against Tobacco at the 
Snuneymuxw Longhouse kitchen Nov. 23 at 5 p.m. The event is aimed at 
Snuneymuxw youth.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Elaine