DRUG CZAR VISITS TO PROMOTE RALLY

GRAND RAPIDS -- In the eyes of Michigan drug czar Yvonne Blackmond,
efforts to keep teens and adults off drugs have been successful.

But with nearly 19.5 million Americans using illegal drugs -- and a
growing number struggling with substance abuse -- Blackmond believes
it takes innovative programs to keep drugs out of communities and the
hands of children.

She hopes to encourage a drug-free lifestyle with a Sept. 16 rally in
Detroit's Cobo Hall. Billed as "Celebrate, Educate and Motivate," it
is designed to put human faces on drug statistics, addiction, and recovery.

Overall, events such as this could have a long-lasting impact, helping
Michigan become a healthier, drug-free state, she said.

"I see this as more of a movement," said Blackmond, a former Los
Angeles deputy sheriff who was in Grand Rapids on Thursday to promote
the rally.

"We believe we can help bring some people back to reality. Everyone
has a chance," she said.

There is currently an effort to increase the following initiatives in
communities statewide:

- - Drug prevention and treatment resources

- - Alcohol and drug-free youth activities

- - Support for people in drug and alcohol addiction recovery and
Michigan's smoke-free efforts.

Blackmond said the state recently developed a five-year strategic plan
to reduce illicit drugs in Michigan, which is awaiting Gov. Jennifer
Granholm's signature.

Discouraging drug use begins with prevention and educating the public
about the dangers of drugs, said resident agent Mike Yasenchak, of the
U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration in Grand Rapids.

While methamphetamine consumes nearly 80 percent of the drug market in
states across the nation, Grand Rapids sees a variety of illegal
drugs, marijuana being the most prevalent, Yasenchak said.

"There is always room for improvement until there are no drugs at
all," he said.