Drug Czar Visits Milwaukee, Safe & Sound Safe Places
Jun 16th, 2010
Office of National Drug Control Policy Director Gil Kerlikowske made a visit to Milwaukee and Safe & Sound Safe Places on June 15th. The White House Drug Czar was in Milwaukee to help launch a pilot anti-drug program called “Above the Influence,” a media campaign that highlights teen life experiences surrounding the pressures of drugs.
The Director visited the United Community Center and Davis Boys & Girls Club, both funded Safe Places. He also toured Running Rebels facilities, which was followed by a presentation by Barb Notestein and Norma Balentine of Safe & Sound.
Dawn Barnett of Running Rebels along with youth from the center welcomed the Director. A spoken word performance by a young man from Running Rebels inspired the honored guests and all those present. Youth answered questions from the Director surrounding their own struggles and ideas regarding drug use and abuse.
Joe Kubisiak of Safe & Sound provided introductions for Police District Capt. Donald Gaglione, CLO Jesus Gloria, Community Prosecutor Kelly Hedge. Also on hand to represent were Safe & Sound Community Partners Aaron Edwards and Annie Weidert as well as Lincoln Heights Neighborhood Association President Linda Zinke and concerned and active resident Betty Baxter. These individuals were representatives of the highly effective community based prosecution teams in position across Milwaukee that bring together youth development organizations like Running Rebels, law enforcement and community residents; where collaboration and capacity building is key to success. Aaron Edwards described Operation Payback and its impact on young offenders. Together, they told the story of how drug dealing affects communities and impacts offenders and how the teams better address these serious issues together.
As the Director knows all too well, it is even more difficult or even dangerous for teens to stay “above the influence” when violent drug, gang, gun, and prostitution activity flourish in neighborhoods. This activity sends a message to young people. Equally, the Safe & Sound strategy also sends a message; criminal drug, gang, and gun activity will not be tolerated. Through strong youth, community, and police collaborations Safe & Sound tips the scales from chaos to order, making it possible for the vast majority of youth and residents to live their lives drug free and without fear and intimidation.
The Journal Sentinel covered parts of the visit.
Drug czar announces new prevention program for Milwaukee
By Tia Ghose, Posted: June 16, 2010 9:34 p.m.
