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Getting ready for the New Year's Eve Party

Submitted by Cynthia Stark-Wickman, Executive Coordinator
San Juan Island Prevention Coalition
[email protected]
378-9683 (office), 370-5470 (home)

Island Rec, a member of the San Juan Island Prevention Coalition, is
presenting the third annual free New Year's Eve Party: A Community
Celebration. This year's party is offering fun for all ages by
providing entertainment, activities, and crafts for everyone.
Shamrock Sounds and other local talent will keep everyone dancing or
swaying to the beat. Hat making and a hat parade are two activities
that are back by popular demand.

The event will be held at the Mullis Community Senior Center from
7:00 to 10:00 p.m., on Sunday, December 31. A 2007 Good Luck Buck
drawing will offer many door prizes.

Sally Kerr, Director of Island Rec, and Corelia Peacock, Recreation
Specialist, have pulled together the many successful ideas of past
events for the youth. "We want to make this year's party an all
inclusive event, rather that three separate parties that we have done
in the past," state the Island Rec leaders who are working with a
committee of community representatives.

The San Juan Island Prevention Coalition, now in its third year of
federal funding under the Drug Free Communities Act, is the primary
funder for the event. The mission of the coalition is to reduce
substance abuse among our youth and to promote healthy choices. A
key strategy towards these goals is to build strong family
relationships. Another strategy is to build a strong community that
supports this mission.

"The New Year's Eve Party is an annual opportunity for us to provide
an opportunity where youth, family, and community members can come
together to socialize, celebrate, and have fun without the use of
alcohol and other drugs," says Cynthia Stark-Wickman, Executive
Coordinator for the coalition. "Our Board of Trustees is thrilled
that Island Rec has taken over this venue that we initiated three
years ago. Combining their talents with Drug Free Communities funds
and intentions is a perfect example of how we work toward our shared
vision of building a more healthy San Juan Island." We are
requesting that children under the age of 12 be accompanied by an
adult. Also, we are asking each person or family to bring finger
food to share. Beverages will be provided.

Though the planning committee is finalizing its plans next week, the
need for volunteers to help with the many facets of the party are
greatly needed! If you are interested in being a volunteer, please
call Sally Kerr at Island Rec, 378-4953.