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9/28/2007 DFA At Killarney Heights FairLocals do their bid to stop drugs in the North Shore Killarney Heights locals Maureen MacDonald and Beatrice Fong live only down the road from the local Funday set up over the weekend on Sunday. Active in the anti-drug campaign, Drug Free Ambassadors, they didn't have to go far afoot to make their presense felt. "The feedback was very positive, everyone liked what we were doing, thought it was a good idea and over 150 people took the drug free pledge," said Maureen, a volunteer for several years. Primary and high school students and parents came to find out all about it and most were from the local area. One girl picked up a booklet on ICE because she had to do a project at school. Another lady had a family member with a problem and Maureen got her contact details and will follow it up with ways to help that person become drug free and get effective rehabilitation. Another aunt took the Truth About Drugs booklet as her nephew was on drugs and she had hope it would help him. Volunteers noted that comments from youth written on the pledgeboard were positive, like "hugs not drugs," which is consequently the Lion's Club slogan. Drug Free Ambassadors itself was started by the Church of Scientology in 1993 and in 2005 became Drug Free Ambassadors Australia Incorporated, a tax exempt charitable entity and continues to help communities all over Sydney and Australia fight the scourge of drugs. For more information contact Maureen on 02 9453 0005 or the general contact info@drugfreeambassadors.org.au. MOUNT DRUITT TACKLES DRUGS, 1 KID AT A TIMEMOUNT DRUITT TACKLES DRUGS, 1 KID AT A TIME
 8/31/2007 Meth AbuseFor Immediate Release Contact Cyrus Brooks 02 9692 7308 0428 755 244 27 Aug 07 Anti-drug Group Vows to Fight Meth Abuse Across the State Drug Free Ambassadors Australia has announced a much need "injection" of the "Truth about Ice" into the community across the state as the headlines splash of violence and tragedy. An ambulance worker noted recently they they would "be lucky not to see two or three Ice overdoses a night." It's an indicator of a growing problem, and it's the psychosis and physical danger much associated with Ice that makes it such sensational copy for the media. Behind the headlines are real stories, people who have gone through it and survived, and people that are doing their damndest to prevent more ruined lives. Cyrus Brooks, spokesman for the Drug Free Ambassadors, tells about that crusade. "We're getting out to the fairs and festivals, rave parties and schools, working with police and like-minded groups," Brooks said. "Out booklets are no-nonsense information, that doesn't go overboard and just try to scare people, but doesn't go the other way and get wishy-washy either. Drugs DO cause severe damage to the person and community. Now everyone will really get why." What is it? Ice is the common name for crystal methamphetamine. It is just one form of the drug methamphetamine, a stimulant. You may have heard the names, speed (about 20 % purity powder form), "base" (40% pure) which is more sticky and "ice" or "crystal" which can be 80% pure methamphetamine. It's commonly snorted, smoked or injected. The drug creates a false sense of happiness and well-being - a rush, hyperactiveness and one also experiences decreased appetite. These drug effects generally last from six to eight hours, but can last up to 24 hours. "I tried it once and BOOM! I was addicted," said one meth addict who lost his family, friends, his profession as a musician and ended up homeless. Long term effects can include Psychosis, Depression, Damage to the brain similar Alzheimer's, heart attacks, stroke, death and epilepsy. When you see a meth user, why do they sometimes have a lot of scabs on their skin? This is one of the darker sides of the drug and a stage of use called Tweaking. In fact, an abuser is most dangerous when experiencing this phase of the addiction. Tweaking occurs at the end of a drug binge when methamphetamine no longer provides a rush or a high. Unable to relieve the dreadful feelings of emptiness an craving, an abuser loses his sense of identity. Intense itching is common and a user can become convinced that bugs are crawling under his skin. His hallucinations are so vivid that they seem real and disconnected from reality, he can become hostile and dangerous to himself and others. The potential for self-mutilation is high. "The amazing thing about drug use is that it doesn't bring drug knowledge. People may know the experience, but don't know what the drug is really doing to them. This is why the Truth about Drugs campaign is so important. Our campaign was started by the Church of Scientology, but now we have everyone involved. Other Church or government organizations and schools and even security or rave organisers are coming aboard. Our next foray into the drug scourge will be a large printing and distribution of the Ice booklet across the State and we are calling on all those interested in helping to contact us," said Brooks. For more information, contact info@drugfreeambassadors.org.au or 02 9692 7308. 6/30/2007 Drug salvage Booklets<p align="center">Download any of the following books and find out the real facts, these are from the <a href="Drug">http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/">Drug Salvage</a> website. Go check them out.</p>
<table align="center">
<tr> <td align="center" width="30%">
<a align="center" href="http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/downloads/drugs.pdf"><img src="http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/img/booklets/drugs_front_page.jpg" alt="The truth about drugs" width="105" height="70" /></a> <p>The truth about drugs <a href="download...http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/downloads/drugs.pdf">download...</a></p> </td> <td width="5%"></td>
<td align="center" width="30%">
<a align="center" href="http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/downloads/cocaine.pdf"><img src="http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/img/booklets/cocaine_front_page.jpg" alt="The truth about cocaine" width="105" height="70" /></a> <p>The truth about cocaine <a href="download...http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/downloads/cocaine.pdf">download...</a></p> </td> </tr> <tr>
<td align="center" width="30%"> <a align="center" href="http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/downloads/crack.pdf"><img src="http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/img/booklets/crack_front_page.jpg" alt="The truth about crack" width="105" height="70" /></a> <p>The truth about crack <a href="download...http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/downloads/crack.pdf">download...</a></p> </td> <td width="5%"></td>
<td align="center" width="30%">
<a align="center" href="http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/downloads/ecstasy.pdf"><img src="http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/img/booklets/ecstasy_front_page.jpg" alt="The truth about ecstasy" width="105" height="70" /></a> <p>The truth about ecstasy <a href="download...http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/downloads/ecstasy.pdf">download...</a></p> </td> </tr> <tr>
<td align="center" width="30%"> <a align="center" href="http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/downloads/heroin.pdf"><img src="http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/img/booklets/heroin_front_page.jpg" alt="The truth about heroin booklet" width="105" height="70" /></a> <p>The truth about heroin <a href="download...http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/downloads/heroin.pdf">download...</a></p> </td> <td width="5%"></td>
<td align="center" width="30%">
<a align="center" href="http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/downloads/ice.pdf"><img src="http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/img/booklets/ice_front_page.jpg" alt="The truth about ice booklet" width="105" height="70" /></a> <p>The truth about ice <a href="download...http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/downloads/ice.pdf">download...</a></p> </td> </tr> <tr>
<td align="center" width="30%"> <a align="center" href="http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/downloads/joints.pdf"><img src="http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/img/booklets/joints_front_page.jpg" alt="The truth about joints booklet" width="105" height="70" /></a> <p>The truth about joints <a href="download...http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/downloads/joints.pdf">download...</a></p> </td> <td width="5%"></td>
<td align="center" width="30%">
<a align="center" href="http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/downloads/kiddie_cocaine.pdf"><img src="http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/img/booklets/kiddie_cocaine_front_page.jpg" alt="The truth about joints booklet" width="105" height="70" /></a> <p>The truth about Kiddie Cocaine <a href="download">http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/downloads/kiddie_cocaine.pdf">download... .</a></p> </td> </tr> <tr>
<td align="center" width="30%"> <a align="center" href="http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/downloads/lsd.pdf"><img src="http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/img/booklets/lsd_front_page.jpg" alt="The truth about LSD booklet" width="105" height="70" /></a> <p>The truth about LSD <a href="download...http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/downloads/lsd.pdf">download...</a></p> </td> <td width="5%"></td>
<td align="center" width="30%"> <a align="center" href="http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/downloads/painkillers.pdf"><img src="http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/img/booklets/painkillers_front_page.jpg" alt="The truth about painkillers booklet" width="105" height="70" /></a> <p>The truth about painkillers <a href="download...http://www.drugsalvage.com.au/downloads/painkillers.pdf">download...</a></p> </td> </tr> </table> <p align="center">The above are for computer screens and are small for fast download. You can order printed versions of the book from the <a href="www.drugsalvage.com.auhttp://www.drugsalvage.com.au/#buy_info_kit">www.drugsalvage.com.au</a> website. These ten booklets tell the TRUTH straight up, we need to get them out there.</p>
6/17/2007 Drug Prevention Forum at Glebe Town Hall - all welcomeDrug prevention forum all welcome please pass onPosted by: "Andrew Macdonald" macdonald00@yahoo.com macdonald00Thu Jun 14, 2007 9:57 pm (PST)Hi,
For this event we are looking for a data projector to plug into our Laptop to give a Power Point Presentation. Does anyone have one or know of one we could use for the day, next Wedensday? Regards Andrew Mobile 0415 135 328 From: Cyrus Brooks cyrusb@scientology.net Sent: Wednesday, 6 June 2007 9:47 PM THE TRUTH ABOUT DRUGS - EFFECTIVE EDUCATION SAVES OUR CHILDREN Glebe Town Hall Drug Action Week Forum 20th June 2007, 1-4PM Reports from the Australian National Council on Drugs and Nation Drug and Alcohol Research Centre show that awareness of the problems of drug abuse in Australia is high, especially concerning abuse amongst youth and the recently highlighted dangers of ecstasy, ice and Ritalin (street and other use). Drug Action Week started by Alcohol and other Drugs Council of Australia (ADCA), is a national week (June 18-22) of activities to raise awareness about alcohol and other drug issues and to promote the achievements of those who work to reduce drug related harm. The week also aims to promote public debate about good practice strategies for reducing drug related harm. The Drug Action Week theme for Wednesday, 20th June 2007 is drug prevention. Drug Free Ambassadors Australia is sponsoring a local forum, entitled "The Truth About Drugs - Effective Education Saves Our Children" to address drug prevention issues for this part of Sydney and to provide a forum for networking and the exchange of successful actions in drug education as well as helping people with drug abuse find rehabilitation services. Speakers include: Carly Crutchfield, Spokesperson Drug Free Ambassadors Australia Patrick Jarvis, Former Forward, St. George Illawarra Dragons, fomer police officer Gary Christian. Secretary, Drug Free Australia DATE: 20th June 2007 TIME: 1-4 PM PLACE: Glebe Town Hall, Ground Floor, 160 St Johns Road. 3/16/2007 Labour's Drug SurrenderDrug Free Ambassadors in the Daily TelegraphPosted by: "Maureen Chan" maureenc@optusnet.com.auMon Mar 5, 2007 5:19 pm (PST)" name=description> <http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/> The Daily Telegraph - Home Labor's drug surrender Exclusive by Kelvin Bissett March 06, 2007 12:00 A CONTROVERSIAL teen drug caution scheme introduced by the Carr Government is a shambles with the number of cautions issued for possession plummeting to almost zero. A Daily Telegraph investigation into the state's caution scheme for youths aged up to 17 indicates police are increasingly turning a blind eye to cases of even hard drug use. Figures released by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research show not one caution was issued to a young person for possession or use of heroin in 2006 - and there was just one caution for cocaine. For possession or use of ecstasy there were just 17 cautions last year despite expert assessments that Australia has the highest rate of use anywhere in the world. Despite an ice epidemic on our streets, police issued a meagre 15 cautions to young people over amphetamines. The most cautions issued to under 17 year olds were for cannabis use, 559. But this was barely half the 1008 issued in 2001. The cautioning scheme was introduced into the Young Offenders Act by the State Government in April 2000 with assurances that it was not a softening of drug use. Anti-drugs campaigner Carly Crutchfield, 25, said last night she was not surprised to learn police are issuing few cautions - despite how widespread drug use has become. "Young people do not try to hide it and they don't think it is wrong," she said. A caution applies for a first offence when in possession of less than 1g of heroin, cocaine or amphetamine, 30g of cannabis leaf, 0.25 of ecstasy and 0.0008g of LSD. For most types of drugs, the number of cautions has fallen sharply between 2001 and 2006. The Cannabis Cautioning Scheme for adults, introduced at the same time, is also in retreat from lack of police action, figures show. In 2000, 3715 cautions were issued. In 2006 the number had falled to 2781. Major Brian Watters, a spokesman for Drug Free Australia, said last night that police were caught in a difficult position by policy makers. "Police I have spoken to are increasingly saying: what's the point? Why bother with the paperwork," Mr Watters said. Mr Watters, who slammed the caution scheme in 2000 as a slap on the wrist measure, said the soft approach sent the wrong message to young people. "It's sad because intervention by the police in a young person's life can really change lives," he said. "It can stop them going down a very sad path." Long-time drug campaigner Tony Wood said last night he was distressed to see 17 cautions in a single year issued for ecstasy, the drug that killed his 15-year-old daughter Anna in 1995. A powerful batch of amphetamine, probably presented as ecstasy, is also thought to have killed 20-year-old Annabel Catt last month at the Good Vibrations festival recently. Mr Wood said: "I bet if I went out with a video camera at one night club venue on a Saturday night I'd catch more than 17 deals on tape." In response to the figures, the NSW Police Force issued a statement linking the drop in cautions for cannabis to recent research "which shows this type of illicit drug is declining in use". Rather than abandoning the war on drugs, police have introduced new crime-fighting strategies over the past six years which tackle drug use, possession and supply. The measures include drug detection dogs and high-visibility policing operations to arrest people regardless of their age. Police operations targeting drugs were not focused on people's age but "on the prevalence of the use and supply of illicit substances". Opposition Leader Peter Debnam said families had had enough of "Labor's softly-softly approach" when it comes to drugs, especially when it involves teenagers. "We need to intervene early, enforce the laws and give our police the resources and powers to do the job," he said. Bureau of Crime and Research Director Don Weatherburn said it was "impossible" to know for sure why the number of cautions was falling. Crutchfield <http://www.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,,5408049,00.jpg> Anti-drug campaigner Carly Crutchfield, who was turned away from the Good Vibrations festival. / The Daily Telegraph <http://server-au.imrworldwide.com/cgi-bin/count?cid=au_newscorp_0> <http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/images/print/logo-print.gif> 11/23/2006 letter to the editor 28 oct 06letter to the editor 28 oct 06Dear Editor, I was happy to read that the government is going to support broad education on the dangerous effects of ICE (a purer form of methamphetamines also called Crystal Meth, Glass, etc). Working with the Drug Free Ambassadors, started by the Church of Scientology, for many years now, I've seen the effects these drugs have in the community and on individuals. Speed and its purer forms, base and Ice, have serious short and long term effects. Yet I saw one website give weak advice on it, saying that you don't know what is in the stuff you are buying, so best to try a little first. Sheesh! Meth can cause depression, psychosis, brian damage similar to stroke and epilepsy, hallucinations and violence, as has been reported by hospitals and police. Do people know you get a rush, high, then a binge, where you want more, tweaking, where meth doesn't give you any more high--but it can cause you to feel like bugs are crawling under your skin, then a terrible crash and hangover and finally withdrawl which brings on a bad depression amongst other things. Let's be real. People need to know the truth of this terrible drug. My best wishes goes out to those trying to get off, or helping others about this. A drug free life isn't just a trite phrase. It's a worthwhile goal. Sincerely, Cyrus Brooks Drug Free Ambassadors Coordinator Can an anti-drug group help handle the problem in Mt. Druitt?Can an anti-drug group help handle the problem in Mt. Druitt?17 Sep 06 Let's look at the facts: Drugs cost us billions of dollars in lost work from those effected, in drug enforcement, in medical treatment, and so on. The human cost in lost loved ones and heartbreak, is uncountable. In musicland we know the stellar fallen stars of Kurt Cobain or in times past, Jimi Hendrix, both died due to drugs and their effects. Fashion icon, Kate Moss almost lost her whole career due to drugs. So what is the solution? At the Mount Druitt Festival, the Church of Scientology's initiative Drug Free Ambassadors, released 10 new booklets to educate and prevent youth from taking drugs. "Prevention is the key," said spokesperson Cyrus Brooks. "The cost for handling drugs after the fact is so much greater; plus the person is influenced by the drug itself and may not be able to see for himself it's terrible effects until they are irreversible. And the biggest enemy the youth have is no or mis-information. Let me tell you, drug dealers (even if they are 'friends') won't give them straight facts." Drug Free Ambassadors released booklets on Speed, Marijuana, Ecstasy, Cocaine, Crack, Heroin, LSD, abuse of Painkillers (like in Marylin Monroe's case) and Ritalin and The Truth about Drugs, summarizing it all at the festival. "They were very popular," quipped Cyrus, "and teachers took them for their students, Scouts and others got involved and interested. One off-duty Federal policeman noted that he was involved for 20 years and it was a never ending battle for them. It shows that as long as there is demand, someone will give the supply. Thus this campaign is key as education and prevention will cut the demand." The Drug Free Ambassadors is based on drug research by L. Ron Hubbard on the effects to the mind as well as the body, and this is the new thing. Cyrus summed it up, "When youth know that the effects of the drug aren't fully eliminated after a month or two, but go on for years, and it makes you mentally sluggish and hazy, they think twice before doing it. When they get the full data, they make better decisions. We can deliver that." For more information contact 02 9692 7308 or see www.drugfreeambassadors.com.au. 10/3/2006 Huge Spring Festival and Open Day at Marrickville.G'day DFA's,
The Next Drug Free Ambassadors Event is at the Huge Spring Festival and Open Day at Marrickville.
Saturday,8th October,9am to 4pm, Addison Rd Centre Marrickville
Come and help Kids out to say no to drugs and Yes to Life.
With our help kids and adults see that a Drug Free Life is possible and much more fun!
Be part of the movement to create a Drug Free Australia. Here is how you can help, along with your family and friends: -Blow up balloons -Hand out Drug info flyer in front of the stall-Tell kids they can do the Drug Free promise and route them to the sign-up board
-Hold a sign-up board and help kids, youth, adults to read and understand the Drug Free promise
-Show how to do the Drug Free Pledge
-After the sign-up tell them to write their name into our sign-up book, so we know how many people have signed
-Give out balloons to new Drug Free Ambassadors
-Give out certificats to new Drug Free Ambassadors
-Tell people "If you like to do a donation, you can do a donation"
We are the only ones making a Drug Free Australia a reality - for kids, youth, families, adults - so we better let them know that Drugs are not a solution for their lives!
Coming events
15-Oct-06 Crow's Nest Fair
22-Oct-06 Maroubra Fun Run 11-Nov-06 Fisher's Ghost Fest - Campbelltown 19-Nov-06 Glebe Street Fair 02-Dec-06 Coogee Family Fun Day If you would like to help or support in any way, or just get information, call Cyrus (02) 9692 7308 or Peter 0419 530278 or David 0412652211 or email us on
Website: www.drugfreeambassadors.com.au
Cheers
David Rootes DFA Yahoo Group Owner/Moderator
9/27/2006 Mt Druitt StoryMt Druitt is the home to many people from the Islands. Can a single anti-drug group make a difference to handling the problem in Mt. Druitt? Let's look at the facts: Drugs cost us billions of dollars in lost work from those effected, in drug enforcement, in medical treatment, and so on. The human cost in lost loved ones and heartbreak, is uncountable. In musicland we know the stellar fallen stars of Kurt Cobain or in times past, Jimi Hendrix, both died due to drugs and their effects. Fashion icon, Kate Moss almost lost her whole career due to drugs. So what is the solution? At the Mount Druitt Festival, the Church of Scientology's initiative Drug Free Ambassadors, released 10 new booklets to educate and prevent youth from taking drugs. "Prevention is the key," said spokesperson Cyrus Brooks. "The cost for handling drugs after the fact is so much greater; plus the person is influenced by the drug itself and may not be able to see for himself it's terrible effects until they are irreversible. And the biggest enemy the youth have is no or mis-information. Let me tell you, drug dealers (even if they are 'friends') won't give them straight facts." Drug Free Ambassadors released booklets on Speed, Marijuana, Ecstasy, Cocaine, Crack, Heroin, LSD, abuse of Painkillers (like in Marylin Monroe's case) and Ritalin and The Truth about Drugs, summarizing it all at the festival. "They were very popular," quipped Cyrus, "and teachers took them for their students, Scouts and others got involved and interested. One off-duty Federal policeman noted that he was involved for 20 years and it was a never ending battle for them. It shows that as long as there is demand, someone will give the supply. Thus this campaign is key as education and prevention will cut the demand." The Drug Free Ambassadors is based on drug research by L. Ron Hubbard on the effects to the mind as well as the body, and this is the new thing. Cyrus summed it up, "When youth know that the effects of the drug aren't fully eliminated after a month or two, but go on for years, and it makes you mentally sluggish and hazy, they think twice before doing it. When they get the full data, they make better decisions. We can deliver that." For more information contact 02 9692 7308 or see www.drugfreeambassadors.com.au.
9/18/2006 New Drug Information Bookletsnew booklets...check these out
new booklets! We have some brand new booklets to help youth and adults be free of drugs. And I want to show them to you! Check out these covers! For more info contact us on info@drugfreeambassadors.com.au
9/15/2006 Mt Druitt FestivalThe Next Drug Free Ambassadors Event is at the MT Druitt Festival! Saturday, 16th September, 9am to 2pm, Mr Druitt Square which is outside main entrance railway station side and near the library, Parking available at ST Patricks Tavern and Centerlink Carparks Cleeve Close (Gregorys Street Directory 241 E 15) Entertainment and various activities. Art And Crafts Stalls, Clothes, Second Hand Bargin Stalls etc, Showbags, Food and Drinks, Entertainment On Centre Stage By Local Artists and Local Scouts with the Big Saugage Sizzel. Come and help Kids out to say no to drugs and Yes to Life. With our help kids and adults see that a Drug Free Life is possible and much more fun! Be part of the movement to create a Drug Free Australia. Here is how you can help, along with your family and friends: -Blow up balloons-Hand out Drug info flyer in front of the stall -Tell kids they can do the Drug Free promise and route them to the sign-up board -Hold a sign-up board and help kids, youth, adults to read and understand the Drug Free promise -Show how to do the Drug Free Pledge -After the sign-up tell them to write their name into our sign-up book, so we know how many people have signed -Give out balloons to new Drug Free Ambassadors -Give out certificats to new Drug Free Ambassadors -Tell people "If you like to do a donation, you can do a donation" We are the only ones making a Drug Free Australia a reality - for kids, youth, families, adults - so we better let them know that Drugs are not a solution for their lives! If you would like to help or support in any way, or just get information, call Cyrus (02) 9692 7308 or Peter 0419 530278 or David 0412652211 or email us on info@drugfreeambassadors.com.au <mailto:info@drugfreeambassadors.com.au> . Website: www.drugfreeambassadors.com.au <http://www.drugfreeambassadors.com.au/> Cheers David Rootes DFA Yahoo Group Owner/Moderator http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/drugfreeambassadors/ <http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/drugfreeambassadors/> 9/12/2006 The Steve Irwin PoemTHE CROCODILES ARE CRYING Endless visions fill my head – this man – as large as life And instantly my heart mourns for his angels and his wife Because the way I see Steve Irwin – just put everything aside It comes back to his family – it comes back to his pride His animals inclusive – Crikey – light the place with love! Shine his star with everything he fought to rise above The crazy-man of Khaki from the day he left the pouch Living out his dream and in that classic ‘Stevo’ crouch Exploding forth with character and redefining cheek It’s one thing to be honoured as a champion unique It’s one thing to have microphones and spotlight cameras shoved It’s another to be taken in and genuinely loved But that was where he had it right – I guess he always knew From his fathers’ modest reptile park and then Australia Zoo We cringed at times and shook our heads – but true to natures call There was something very Irwin in the make up of us all Yes the more I care to think of it – the more he had it right If you’re going to make a difference – make it big and make it bright! Yes - he was a lunatic! Yes - he went head first! But he made the world feel happy with his energetic burst A world so large and loyal that it’s hard to comprehend I doubt we truly count the warmth until life meets an end To count it now I say a prayer with words of inspiration May the spotlight shine forever on his dream for conservation …My daughter broke the news to me – my six year old in tears It was like she’d just turned old enough to show her honest fears I tried to make some sense of it but whilst her Dad was trying His little girl explained it best…she said “The crocodiles are crying” Their best mate’s up in heaven now – the crocs up there are smiling! And as sure as flowers, poems and cards and memories are piling As sure as we’ll continue with the trademarks of his spiel Of all the tributes worthy – he was rough…but he was real As sure as ‘Crikey!’ fills the sky I think we’ll miss ya Steve…goodbye 9/6/2006 Article by Dr Brenton Prosser - ADHDArticle by Dr Brenton Prosser - ADHDPosted by: "Gregory H Williams" irobot@optusnet.com.auMon Sep 4, 2006 7:22 pm (PST)ADHD: who's failing who? University of South Australia lecturer and research fellow, Dr Brenton Prosser, says it's time for a broader understanding of ADHD. I have heard a lot of heartbreaking and inspiring stories while working with young people with ADHD - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - and their families. Over that time, it has become ever clearer to me that there is a need for a broader understanding of the condition. It seems what we now call a disorder could be blamed, at least partly, on a mismatch between the natural diversity of human behaviours and a world that has changed so much in the last 30 years that these behaviours no longer fit. As blue-collar work has dwindled, there is less space for people who abound in physical energy, are intuitive rather than logical, and work through challenges by doing rather than reflecting. The new benchmark for behaviour in our classrooms is increasingly based on the traditional model of the hard-working, studious female student; and because schools are primarily geared towards a one-size-fits-all standard of success, success means students need to be passive and compliant. Outside of school many of the avenues to "let off steam" once available to young people are disappearing within the urban landscape, with parents too afraid to let their kids go to the local shops alone. Increasingly, adults are more likely to be at a workstation than a worksite, and young people are safer at a PlayStation than in a playground. Our competitive workplace now wants employees who are not only smart and creative, but focused and compliant as well. With such huge social and technological shifts in such a short time, it's a big ask to expect all human beings - diverse as they are - to adapt to these new rules in less than one generation. Some look at the recent growth in ADHD and conclude that the disorder is a just a modern myth. However, ADHD is our best medical explanation for the cause of hyperactive, inattentive and impulsive behaviours in our young people (mostly boys). It is also true that there is no objective medical test to show who has ADHD, which has inevitably led some to question the existence of ADHD. Yet what stands out above all the "black and white" views on ADHD is the reality of the challenges that face these young people and their families. If we only ask medical questions about ADHD, we will only get medical answers and more drug treatment. In response, we need a new view of ADHD and an even broader explanation that answers the educational, cultural and social questions that the medical explanation alone cannot. If we accept that some of our children are physically different in such a way that contemporary social preferences see them fail at school and work, then as a community we need to decide how we will respond to that failure. I believe that leaving these challenges for doctors and drug prescribers to solve is effectively "shrugging and drugging". As a community, we all need to take some responsibility for the growth of ADHD. Instead of just asking how children with ADHD are failing in our society, we should also be asking what it is about our society that's failing them. Dr Prosser's new book ADHD: Who's Failing Who? is published by Finch Publishing and was launched last month in Adelaide by Senator Natasha Stott Despoja. http://www.unisa.edu.au/unisanews/2006/June/mainstory.asp 9/2/2006 DFA'st will atttend the MT Druitt Festival - 16th SepThe Next Drug Free Ambassadors Event is at the MT Druitt Festival!
Saturday, 16th September, 9am to 4pm,
Mr Druitt Square which is outside main entrance railway station side and near the library, Parking available at ST Patricks Tavern and Centerlink Carparks Cleeve Close (Gregorys Street Directory 241 E 15)
Entertainment and various activities.
Art And Crafts Stalls, Clothes, Second Hand Bargin Stalls etc, Showbags, Food and Drinks, Entertainment On Centre Stage By Local Artists and Local Scouts with the Big Saugage Sizzel.
Come and help Kids out to say no to drugs and Yes to Life.
With our help kids and adults see that a Drug Free Life is possible and much more fun!
Be part of the movement to create a Drug Free Australia. Here is how you can help, along with your family and friends: -Blow up balloons -Hand out Drug info flyer in front of the stall-Tell kids they can do the Drug Free promise and route them to the sign-up board
-Hold a sign-up board and help kids, youth, adults to read and understand the Drug Free promise
-Show how to do the Drug Free Pledge
-After the sign-up tell them to write their name into our sign-up book, so we know how many people have signed
-Give out balloons to new Drug Free Ambassadors
-Give out certificats to new Drug Free Ambassadors
-Tell people "If you like to do a donation, you can do a donation"
We are the only ones making a Drug Free Australia a reality - for kids, youth, families, adults - so we better let them know that Drugs are not a solution for their lives!
If you would like to help or support in any way, or just get information, call Cyrus (02) 9692 7308 or Peter 0419 530278 or David 0412652211 or email us on
Website: www.drugfreeambassadors.com.au
Cheers
David Rootes DFA Yahoo Group Owner/Moderator
Part V Overcoming The Barriers to RecoveryThe Life Cycle of Addiction, Part V - Overcoming the Barriers toPosted by: "Peter Mousiol" pmousiol@optusnet.com.au pmousiolTHE LIFE CYCLE AND MECHANICS OF ADDICTION THE LIFE CYCLE OF ADDICTION, Part V OVERCOMING THE BARRIERS TO RECOVERY ---------------------------------------------------------- The following article is the fifth in a five-part series written by Gary W. Smith, C.C.D.C., who has been the Executive Director of Narconon® rehab centers for over 18 years. There are different methods utilized in substance abuse counseling to bring about positive moral change in an addict. Probably one of the most commonly used is the 12 Step approach practiced by the Alcoholics or Narcotics Anonymous groups. In this method steps 4 and 5 and steps 8 and 9 deal with life inventory of the wrong deeds done and who was affected by them. In addition to this, the addict then makes up the damage done as a result of these negative actions. This method is effective in recovery so long as the person's addiction has not progressed to the point where the individual has lost his or her ability to confront and communicate or to identify and solve problems. If an addiction persists long enough, an addict will lose even the basic social skills needed to perform in group therapy and to admit their wrongdoing. Gary W. Smith In cases where drug addiction began in the adolescent years, individuals have not had the opportunity to develop these life skills. As a result, they do not perform as well in a 12 step program or other traditional treatment settings. In these cases the addict needs to be educated or re-educated in these basic life skills before there can be any real hope of success in raising moral standards and permanent sobriety. When conventional approaches are not working with a drug-addicted person, there are effective alternatives to pursue in recovery before one gives up. What has not proven effective is substitute drug treatment, e.g. methadone, anti-depressants or other prescribed medications designed to mask the symptoms of addiction mentioned in this article. This in effect just trades one addiction for another. It does not aid the addicted person in developing the life skills necessary to raise their moral values or their quality of life; nor does it provide them with the necessary tools to remain sober. Thus relapse becomes imminent. One effective alternative method to recovery is the life skills training and moral inventory used by the Narconon program. This program provides a specific course of treatment which includes training in communication, a full body detoxification process, counseling in problem identification and solving, as well as counseling in personal values and integrity. These programs help individuals to accomplish heightened moral standards and sobriety with an improved quality of life. Over 30 years ago author and researcher L. Ron Hubbard identified the basic barriers to successful recovery which have been discussed throughout this series of articles on addiction. Through his research he developed a means of treating them successfully. When Narconon was founded in 1969 by William Benitez, it was based on Mr. Hubbard's research and developments in the field of drug and alcohol rehabilitation. Benitez developed a working relationship with Hubbard and together they established the first Narconon program in Arizona. Narconon has been using this treatment method successfully for over 30 years. It has only been within the last few years that the scientific and medical research have caught up with these methods of treating addiction. It is now acknowledged by the medical community that drugs do store in the body in the form of metabolites and that the chemical imbalances created by drug addiction are nutritionally driven. Further, nutritional program components have been added to just about every type of treatment method and is recognized as a valid form of therapy in chemical dependency treatment. If you know someone in need of help, I recommend that you research all of your treatment options. Take the time to thoroughly inspect the treatment program available. Determine how these programs address the mechanics of addiction. Find out what their long term recovery rate is. Drug rehabilitation does not have to be a revolving door if you take the time and effort to pick the right recovery program. Note: Since writing the above articles, Gary Smith and his colleague, Derry Hallmark, have written and published "Helping Someone Overcome Addiction--Volume I: What is Addiction" Click here to order: Narconon bookstore Narconon International has many resources to help someone overcome drug addiction. We offer educational materials to help prevent drug abuse. For more information, visit our websites at www.narconon.org and www.narconon-news.org. For our published materials, visit the Narconon bookstore. © 2006. Narconon International. All Rights Reserved. Narconon and the Narconon logo are trademarks and service marks owned by the Association for Better Living and Education International and are used with its permission. 8/31/2006 ANTI-DRUG INITIATIVE RECEIVES CHARITY STATUS24 August
media releaseFor Immediate Release
For interview or info
Contact:
Cyrus Brooks Coordinator 02 9692 7308 --- 0428 755 244 ANTI-DRUG INITIATIVE RECEIVES CHARITY STATUS
The Church of Scientology's 13 year old anti-drug initiative, the Drug Free Ambassadors, has just been formally recognized by the Federal Treasury and the Department of Family and Community Services as a charity and fully tax deductible, having been put on the register of Harm Prevention Charities.
The group have been holding events around the city preventing such harm that drugs do. For example at Bexley on Saturday, a young man - James came to the group, very complimentary of the anti-drug program and told his story. He started experimenting with marijuana when he was 14. A few years later he tried heroin. When he couldn't afford to keep up this drug habit he started stealing to pay for it. He ended up in prison and was condemned for 10 years. Whilst he was in jail he was also on the methadone program. He said it wrecked his life and that he would never do drugs again. After seeing us he also wanted to be a volunteer to help others.
The Drug Free Ambassadors is a drug education and prevention program aimed at teens and pre-teens, showing them not only the pitfalls of drugs, but the benefits of a drug-free life. The volunteers go to streets, fairs, malls, schools and wherever the youth congregate to pass on the message and ask them to take a seven point pledge. They follow humanitarian and researcher, L. Ron Hubbard's message where he said, "Save the child,and you save the nation." There were other great responses there: A mother said that her daughter had bad headaches all the time and continuously took pain killers and she was hoping that her daughter would seek alternative means because she felt that these pills were not good for her. Shop owners said this is a very good thing for the Community and brought family and customers to sign the pledge while we was there. A group of the local girl scouts signed the Pledge and said " theres no way we'll be getting into street drugs".
The Ambassadors are also releasing new booklets to celebrate the new federal status including ones on heroin, marijuana, cocaine, LSD, speed/methamphetamines, ecstasy, crack, kiddie cocaine (ritalin) and painkillers. They are very popular and will get the truth out there.
For those who want to take the pledge, it is: As a Drug-Free Ambassador, I pledge to lead the way by:
1. Leading a drug-free life.
2. Showing my friends that a drug-free life is more fun. 3. Helping my fellow drug-free ambassadors. 4. Learning more about how drugs really harm people. 5. Telling people the truth about the harmful effects of drugs. 6. Helping my family and friends to be drug-free. 7. Setting a good example to all children by leading the way to a drug-free Australia. The Drug Free Ambassadors will be regularly on the street promoting to youth; but you don't have to wait: for more information on the Drug Free Ambassadors, call 02 9692 7308 or info@drugfreeambassadors.com.au. Drug Free Ambassadors make a difference in Bexley21 August
Bexley FairBexley Anti-Drug Ambassadors make a difference 21 August 2006
On Saturday 19th August 107 Bexley-siders signed the drug-free pledge promoted by an anti-drug group, called DRUG FREE AMBASSADORS.
The group targets youth and young adults answering questions and helping them make positive choices about living a drug free life.
One could say it was just on time as the very next day the NSW police seized almost 3 kg of heroin with a potential street value of $3.5million. The DRUG FREE AMBASSADORS attack the problem with colourful and informative booklets like the TRUTH ABOUT HEROIN - Flirting with the Fobidden Brings the Kiss of Death.
Spokesman Cyrus Brooks said: "the pains of heroin are great, and vastly outweigh the 'rush' people feel. Depression, nausea, loss of teeth, coma, pustules on the face and body. It's a horrible trap. We're out there to tell youth that they don't have to go that route. There is another way to achieve joy and happiness. Fun doesn't have to include drugs." The Ambassadors initiative is from the Church of Scientology and based on research by humanitarian L. Ron Hubbard. For more info, contact Cyrus Brooks 02 9692 7308 or info@drugfreeambassadors.com.au. 7/20/2006 Upcoming DFA Events News
4/19/2006 Braveman Looking for Work Dear Friends/Employers,David Rootes here, I'm looking for part time or full time work.I have the following skills:SKILLS SUMMARY1 Administration2 Sales, Filing and Computer Data skills 3 Marketing, Graphic Design skills4 Wire worker, spot welder5 2nd Class Welder, Sheet Metal Worker. 6 Basic Carpentry/Cabinet maker skills7 Basic Panel Beating/ Spray Painting skills8 Metal Press operator, folding and die cutter9 Dispatching, Warehouse skills.10 Labouring skills11 Night filler, pricing products12 Music, drummer, singer and song writer13 Public relations14 Telemarketing15 C class drivers license/Forklift license, OHS General Introduction - (greencard), Traffic Control Course (Blue Card). 16 Basic Bookeeping (myob), Payroll (myob). So if you have or know of any possible job vacancies or have one in Your company relating to my Skills, please call me on 0412652211 or 02 9628 0788 or email me on braveman_669@hotmail.comCheers, David |
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In western Sydney, the Drug Free Ambassadors group attends a huge festival in high risk area to get the message out about the risks drugs.
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