NEWS RELEASE
December 3, 1998

Partnership for Drug Free Michigan Poster/Essay Contest
Launched Statewide

Michigan Department of Community Health Director James K. Haveman, Jr. today announced that schools across Michigan will get information about a Partnership for a Drug-Free Michigan 1998 Poster/Essay Contest this week. Prizes include cash awards donated by Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Michigan, as well as opportunities to win tickets and other exciting merchandise, compliments of the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Pistons.

The partnership, a collaborative public/private effort, is an aggressive public awareness campaign designed to warn every child, teen and parent in Michigan about the dangers of drug use.

"According to the 1997 Michigan Youth Risk Behavioral Survey, 48% of students have tried marijuana," said Haveman. "Unfortunately, there is a perception that drugs are not dangerous. We know this is not true, and our children and teens need to understand that drugs are harmful and addictive."

"The theme of the contest, 'Winners Don't Do Drugs Because. . .' was selected so students can think about the positive aspects of abstaining from drugs," said Office of Drug Control Policy Director Darnell Jackson.

There are three grade classifications within the poster and essay categories. They are grades 3 to 5; 6 to 8; and 9 to 12. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan will provide the prizes for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners. First place prizes are $100, second place prizes are $50, and third place prizes are $25.

All students who participate in this contest will be entered in a drawing for grand prizes, compliments of the Detroit Red Wings and the Detroit Pistons. The deadline for entry in the contest is January 15, 1999.

This contest is sponsored by the Michigan Department of Community Health, the Partnership for a Drug-Free Michigan, the Office of Drug Control Policy, the Michigan Department of Education, Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Michigan, the Detroit Red Wings and the Detroit Pistons.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PRESS CONTACT: Geralyn Lasher
December 3, 1998 (517) 241-2112