Coalitions making a difference

Since this is the season for celebrations, I decided to blog about hopeful things today. So, I am starting with an excerpt from a message sent by the DFC Administrator on the ONDCP list serv earlier this month:

At a time when many national surveys are showing increases in youth substance use, the past 30-day use of alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana have declined significantly and in all grade levels (middle school, high school) between DFC coalitions’ first and most recent data report. Additionally, perception of risk increased significantly for alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana use among youth in DFC-funded communities. Both markers are clear evidence of the success of your work and the effectiveness of this model.

I wanted to share that with you as a harbinger of hope. The Prevention WINS coalition accomplished quite a bit over the past 4+ years and now, with DFC support, we have the wonderful opportunity to accomplish even more, creating a safe and healthy community for our children.

In the news

From the November 20 Seattle Times:

Our team in D.C. -- Locke, Sims and Kerlikowske

"The chief later told me people should be just as concerned about middle-schoolers partying with parents' prescription drugs as they are about better-known illicit drugs."

"The better approach is prevention for people ages 12 to 21 and treatment for those who are already addicted."

"Kerlikowske's main focus is to develop the president's drug strategy, due out next year. Clearly, policy will stress prevention and treatment and focus on things like drug courts, which have proven to work."

From the December 7 New York Times:

Addiction on 2 Fronts: Work and Home about the new deputy director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy who believes that more resources need to go towards prevention.

Hard Questions to Ask After a Cry for Help about what pediatricians and others should ask adolescents when they are at risk for suicide.

Seattle Police Chief new "Drug Czar"

As you've probably already heard, Seattle Police Chief Gil Kerlikowske reportedly has been nominated by the Obama Administration to direct the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). Here is a sample of what's been reported in local media:

The Next Drug Czar, KUOW's The Conversation, February 11, 2009;

A new drug czar, a new opportunity, The Seattle Times, February 16, 2009;

From Seattle's top cop to 'drug czar', Seattle Post-Intelligencer, February 10, 2009.

Join Together's article includes quotes former Police Chief Norm Stamper and Washington State Representative Roger Goodman.