Pubdate: Sun, 14 Jan 2007 Source: Telegram, The (CN NF) Copyright: 2007 The Telegram Contact: http://www.thetelegram.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/303 GEORGE CHUVALO BRINGS HIS FIGHT AGAINST DRUGS TO CONNE RIVER Boxing legend George Chuvalo visited students at St. Anne's school in Conne River in November to talk about the fight against drugs. He was invited by Chief Misel Joe of the Miaupukek Band, and the trip was supported by Health Canada and the RCMP. The St. Anne's Mi'Kmaw Choir and Drummers treated him to a musical performance before he spoke. After his presentation, he signed autographs for students and adults and toured Conne River. Chuvalo was the reigning Canadian Heavyweight Boxing Champion for 21 years, from 1958 until 1979. Ranked in the top 10 if the world for much of his career, Chuvalo faced many of the best fighters of the 20th century: Muhammad Ali, George Foreman, Floyd Patterson, Ernie Terrell, Joe Frazier, Jerry Quarry and many others. Chuvalo retired from boxing in 1979 as the undisputed heavyweight champion of Canada. In 1990, he was inducted into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame. After his boxing career, Chuvalo took various parts in a number of movies, including "The Fly," "Prom Night 3," "The Untouchables" and, most recently, "Dirtyworks." Today, Chuvalo speaks to students, parents and groups about drugs and how they have affected his life. He lost three sons and a wife as a result of substance abuse. His graphic recollection of events and his expressive nature enable him to convey his powerful message. The feedback he receives has been positive, appreciative and encouraging. Being a father to drug addicted sons provides him with the insight and wisdom required to capture any listener. His presentations are in demand from coast to coast. He deglamourizes drug use by giving examples of what he has witnessed first hand - for instance, that addicts always begin with experimentation. He also stresses that the majority of crimes are committed as a result of substance abuse. In most cases, addicts turn into criminals - criminals don't turn into addicts. For more information on Conne River, see www.mrngov.ca; for more information on Chuvalo's fight against drugs, go to www.fightagainstdrugs.ca - --- MAP posted-by: Derek