Crow Wing County spent 1.8 million dollars last year dealing with the issues brought about by the prevalence of this drug. He talked about the Methamphetamine Precursor Drug Ordinance which makes stores responsible for controlling the sales of such over the counter products that contain ingredients necessary to mass produce this "drug of choice" for people with very little money.

Some interesting historical facts about "crank," "speed," "glass" included its invention by the Nazi's as a method to keep soldiers awake and its adoption by biker gangs. Highways 371 and 210 have made the area a flash point for distribution from Iowa, Oklahoma, Utah and even Mexico. His group is concentrating on cutting down local production of this highly addictive substance that seriously affects the brains of users and takes much longer to treat than any other drug. One of the side affects that concerns many is the abused and addicted children that come from homes where parents are abusing the drug. These meth users lose motivation and memory in the process as well as developing severe depression when the drug destroys their ability to produce dopamine which is our natural "feel good" chemical.

Mr. Sluss was positive that efforts have had an effect in Crow Wing County, citing the decrease in the number of labs raided, the forward thinking ordinance that soon may be statewide, and fewer meth related criminals in jail. Questions from the audience focused on the ordinance and the programs to help homeowners and officials clean up the remains of a meth lab. Terry brought three very informative handouts including the Meth Monitor's inaugural edition, and two pamphlets. For more information, go to their web site at www.methwatch.us. The Lakes Area Drug Number is 218-852-3422 or email ladid@co.crow-wing.mn.us. The crisis line at 828-HELP is also prepared to answer questions for those who are dealing with the issue first hand.