http://www.visionaryrecords.com/crackpipesincandystorescrusade/COPrecords.html




----Coalition Of Parents Alert--------------------

  I would like you to be aware of the following stores we have found
  selling Drug Pipes on the same shelves as Candy and Toys, in large 
  display cases at Children's eye level.
  
They refused my personal appeal to keep the pipes out of Children's view.
You can scroll down to read the ugly responses of these rude merchants.

our BAD BUSINESS list: 

***   ESSO Gas Station (Imperial Oil) / Banny's Market  
                                         604-590-3596    1-800-567-3776
        Kulwinder & Gurjit Binning
        7631 - 128 St. Surrey  
***   SHELL Gas Station / M+M Market   
                           604-589-8292    604-619-7752   403-691-2646   1-800-661-1600  
        Gurjit Binning
        10732 - 128 St. Surrey
***   Cloverdale Rodeo.                   6050A-176th Street,     Surrey.    604-576-9461
***   Tom's Food Market.           10823-148 St,    Surrey.    604-581-7616
***   Scott Hill Convenience.    1-9886-120 St,     Surrey.    604-588-2220
***   Maple Pizza / Grace Market.  10063-117 St,    Surrey.    604-582-0006
***   Surrey Food Market.          13446-104 Ave,   Surrey.    604-581-4335
***   Master Foods.                9577-128 St,     Surrey.    604-583-3299
***   Dollar Plus Discount.      C-7155-138 St,     Surrey.    604-594-9958
***   Yee's Market.                13208-80 Ave,    Surrey.    604-594-1465
***   Roebuck's Grocery.           13192-92 Ave,    Surrey.    604-581-7397   604-789-1693
***   Food Town.                   9583-132 St,     Surrey.    604-584-5646
***   U-Save Grocery.              14675-108 Ave,   Surrey.    604-584-9944
***   Marmac Grocery.            2-14902-104th Ave, Surrey.    604-585-3330
***   Paul & Brenda Food Market.   14414-104th Ave, Surrey.    604-581-2363
***   Townline Market.             12574-96 Ave,    Surrey.    (telephone?)
***   Dollar Plus.                 12880-96 Ave,    Surrey.    604-584-0616  604-581-5226
***   Dollar Plus Variety.         14843-108 Ave,   Surrey.    604-584-7751





>>      These are only some of several so-called "convenience" stores we have found
>>      selling Drug Pipes in full view of children buying candy and toys.
>>      MANY "dollar" stores in strip malls and shopping centers
>>      are selling these pipes right out in the open next to toys and candy.
>>      Meth pipes are becoming so mainstream, and people have become so apathetic, 
>>      they are showing up at family events sponsored by major corporations.
>>
>>      These are the people who want to do business in YOUR neighbourhood.
>>      These are YOUR neighbourhoods.
>>      Is this the kind of neighbourhoods we want our children to grow up in?
>>      Are these the kind of "merchants" we want to buy groceries from?
>>
>>      We demand that ALL businessmen in Surrey 
>>      act in a socially responsible way toward the community, 
>>      if they expect us to support them with our money.
>>
>>
>>
>> Please join the parents of Surrey (and all Canadian communities) in the
>> fight to end the blatant sale of drug pipes where children and teenagers
>> buy candy, pop and chips.
>>
>> You can help by doing any or all of the following:
>>
>>      - Forward this email to as many people as possible.  Add your own
>>        comments if you wish.
>>
>>      - Send a copy of this email to any and all media.
>>
>>      - Send a copy of this email to all levels of your government.  Include
>>        your own opinions if you could.
>>
>>      - Write your local lawmakers and politicians and tell them we need a law
>>        which prohibits the sale of drug pipes in plain sight of children.
>>
>>      - Tell your local merchant that you will not shop at a store that sells
>>        drug pipes where children buy candy or toys.
>>
>>      - Telephone any of the above stores and ask them to stop... thank them
>>        if they already have.  Don't be afraid to tell them what you really think.
>>
>>      - Report the store to Bylaw enforcement. 
          (Surrey bylaw dept.  604-591-4370  
                               604-591-4579  
                               604-591-4132 )
>>        John Sherstone Manager JESherstone@surrey.ca  (Fax: 604-591-4465) 
>>
>>      - Report the store to the Police. (Surrey RCMP 604-599-0502)
>>
>>      - Report the Offending store to BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU --- inquiries@bbbvan.org
>>
>>      - Report the Offending store to their Neighbouring Store, Church, School, Property Manager,
>>        Regional Manager, Corporate Head Office, Customer Service.  
>>        DO NOT STOP until you get a response.
>>
>>      - Email the store information to lisaebenal_1@hotmail.com with your testimonial and
>>        we will publish it in this newsletter.
>>
>>      - Always check your own neighbourhood "corner store" or "dollar store",
>>        BEFORE you pay for anything.  Look and see if they have drug pipes for sale. 
>>        If they DO... Leave (with or without saying anything).  
>>        I prefer to shop first, put a pile of merchandise on the counter and let them total the "sale". 
>>        Then I tell them why I refuse to shop there and walk out.  
>>        This really puts the economic impact of your personal boycott into perspective for them.
>>        If they DON'T carry drug pipes... Please thank them.  Let them know that their decency 
>>        has been noticed and appreciated.  Some of the offending stores may have already removed their 
>>        displays as a result of public pressure.  Please thank them for doing the right thing and ask 
>>        them never to sell drug pipes in front of children again.  Keep checking back randomly.
>>
>> Thank you for your time,
>>  Yours truly,
>>   Lisa Ebenal  = lisaebenal_1@hotmail.com
>>     Coalition Of Parents, Surrey.
>>       www.visionaryrecords.com/crackpipesincandystorescrusade/COPrecords.html
>>


          *****  JOIN the Coalition Of Parents ************

Send your email to lisaebenal_1@hotmail.com and 
we will put you on our aware and active Newsletter email list. 

Our email list includes nearly every politician 
and civil servant and media outlet across Canada. 

This email list will give you instant and simultaneous access 
to many levels of government with often immediate results. 

we have used this list many times to stop the sale of 
crack pipes at stores where children buy candy and toys.

IT WORKS. 




>>      HERE IS A PICTURE OF A TYPICAL DRUG PIPE DISPLAY CASE 
>>      SURROUNDED BY PENNY CANDY FOR CHILDREN.  
>>      
          http://www.thenownewspaper.com/issues05/112205/photos/top1.jpg

>>      THE ARTICLE IS HERE:
>>      http://www.thenownewspaper.com/issues05/112205/news/112205nn1.html



 
  






==================================================================
                 Unbelievable but True Stories
==================================================================


SHELL Oil sold me and my son a crack pipe 
next door to Kids's Daycare [election day Nov 19 2005]
 ------------------------------------------------
***   SHELL Gas Station / M+M Market   
   604-589-8292     604-619-7752  403-691-2646   1-800-661-1600
        Gurjit Binning  
        10732 - 128 St. Surrey
--------------------------------------------------

>   Today, at approximately 1:45 pm, I purchased gas and a crack pipe, at M&M 
>   Market. The address is 10732-128th St. Surrey.
>
>   The store is a Shell gas station. Of interesting note, the receipt didn't 
>   show the purchase of the pipe, just the gas. I couldn't believe how easy it 
>   was to purchase a crack pipe. The pipes were not on display. I just asked 
>   if I could buy a pipe, and presto, the owner produced one from behind the 
>   counter. After I walked away, I began to wonder if they also sell the drug 
>   as well. It would not surprise me.
>
>   After the purchase, I called Bob to tape the purchase for the record. We 
>   need this to show the Shell corporation what is going on under their name 
>   sake.
>
>   About 10 or 15 minutes later, Bob was taping the owner as he asked the 
>   owner why he was still selling crack pipes after he promised he wouldn't. 
>   Then the owner suddenly swung at Bob with the filler nozzle for the propane 
>   pump, nearly hitting him on the head. My 12 year old son, and I  witnessed 
>   the whole thing. Then the owner came at Bob, at which time I intervened, 
>   stopping him from causing any harm to anyone, including my son.
>
>   Then the R.C.M.P. arrived. After a verbal reprimand from the constable, we 
>   were told to conduct our business with the Municipality, not directly with 
>   owners of the stores.
>
>   I am still trying to digest all the happenings of this afternoon, but mark 
>   my word, this is far from over. I will not stop trying to end this selling 
>   of drug related merchandise. If the people don't get involved, nothing will 
>   change.
>
>   If you need any more information, just e-mail me. You have my full support.
>
>   Ken Pelletier.

Bob's experience:

I went to the location to find a man named Ken and his 12 year old son Clay.
Ken showed me a glass tube he had bought when he had paid for his gas.
Ken told me on camera that he had gone into the Shell, asked for a pipe,
and was sold the little glass tube he now held.  

I went into the Shell to videotape and recognized the clerk as the same man 
who had promised me, in the presence of a bylaw officer that he would 
stop selling the pipes.  Before I had even said one word, 
the clerk said, "FU**IN I CAN BREAK YOUR CAMERA".   
I said, "You represent Shell to me." 
He claimed he did not work for Shell, while wearing a Shell uniform with Shell logo.
I asked him why he sold Ken the crack pipe, and he asked why did Ken buy it?
At one point he grabbed his crotch and said "I got your pipe right here".

While standing at the pump with the Shell customer and his son, the clerk 
yelled at us across the parking lot something about the police.

A few minutes later, the clerk came out to pump some gas.  And I again asked him 
why he had not fullfilled his promise to stop selling crack pipes 
in our neighbourhood Shell station.
 
( This Shell is located next door to  
KID'S PLAY DAYCARE CENTRE - phone:604-930-4800 - 
12819 Old Yale Rd - Surrey, BC - and also 
directly across the street from 3 community facilities...  
OAK AVENUE DAYCARE - phone:604-930-1972 - 
St.HELENS ANGLICAN CHURCH - phone:604-581-4800
and a MENNONITE CHURCH - phone:604-584-5425 ).  

The gas station attendant replied, "So I'm selling pipes, what you going to do about it?"  
He suddendly lost his temper and tried to hit me with the nozzle of the propane dispenser.  
I dodged the blow and ran, as he chased me.  Ken intervened and the two of them argued 
while I continued to videotape.  The clerk picked up his nozzle and went back to pumping...  
business as usual.  I was shocked that he was willing to attack me on camera, in front of Ken and his 12 year old son, with other Shell customers witnessing.  Ken called 911 and reported the assault.  
The RCMP advised us to leave the property until they could get to the scene. 
We followed their instructions.  

When the RCMP arrived, 
he told us to stop what we were doing and leave.  
In his opinion we were trespassing and harassing 
a legitimate businessman engaged in a legal practice.
He was not going to press charges if we left right away,
nor did he plan to arrest the man in the Shell uniform 
who had attacked me with the Shell propane nozzle, 
despite the eyewitnesses present.  I also advised the 
RCMP officer that I had videotaped the assault and would 
give him a copy of the tape.  He was not very pleasant with me, 
warning me not to tell him how to do his job, 
even mentioning something about "obstructing justice".  
This was right in front of Ken and his son.  

While the officer spoke privately with Ken, 
I was saddened when the boy said to me,
"This is like the movies, with crooked cops and stuff.  
I can't understand why he (the police officer) was mad at you.  
It's like they're all in this together." 
I did not know how to respond to his loss of faith, 
so I told him to be proud of his dad.
When we overheard the officer reprimand Ken 
about exposing his 12 year old child to this type of situation, 
the boy said "I wanted to come."  
He said that he did not like the stores selling pipes 
and wanted to do something about it.

How can it be OK for the merchant to sell crack pipes 
in front of children, next to two daycares and two churches, 
two blocks west of my children's elementary school...  
but it is NOT OK for a child to watch his parent 
protest the sale of crack pipes in his neighbourhood 
Shell gas station candy store?  

The RCMP officer told me he did not agree with our methods and 
if I get my head busted, "Don't call us" (the RCMP?).  
We left it at that and went home.  

I never heard from Cst.Bichler again, 
and he has not me contacted since that day, 
nor has he picked up his copy of the video record of the assault.  
It seems he is not interested in finding out what really happened.

RCMP - police incident report #2005-146479  
Cst.Bichler  Nov.19  (Election Day) 2006


-----------------------------


Please tell SHELL Oil what you think 
about a Shell station selling drug pipes
next door to a Daycare centre:
 
http://www.shell.com/home/tellshell-en/html/iwgen/contact_us/app_frame_contact_us.html

Ken Bouchard - Shell Manager - 604-619-7752 
Denita Davis - Regional Manager - 403-691-2646  Denita.Davis@shell.com
Shell Customer Service - 1-800-661-1600   1-403-691-2646
shellcustomercare@shell.com, ssc@shell.com, questions@shell.com
Fax: (403) 691.3690

They have to listen to you.

This is SHELL Oil's official policy "cut & pasted" from their website. 
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Our policies and standards define who we are and how we work. Our core values of honesty, 
integrity and respect for people are at the heart of how we manage our business."

"Our Principles are part of everything we do."
 
"The Principles are based on our core values of honesty, integrity and respect for people. 
They also indicate how we promote trust, openness, teamwork and professionalism, and pride in what we do. 
As a global group of companies we have a responsibility to be a good corporate citizen: 
to listen and respond to all points of view."

"All Shell companies are expected to comply with the Principles as a matter of course. 
In joint ventures, we use our influence to persuade our partners to adopt and apply principles 
consistent with ours. We also expect contractors to conform to the Principles 
in all aspects of their work with Shell companies."

http://www.shell.com/home/Framework?siteId=royal-en&FC2=/royal-en/html/iwgen/environment_and_society/commitment_policies_standards/business_principles/zzz_lhn.html&FC3=/royal-en/html/iwgen/environment_and_society/commitment_policies_standards/business_principles/business_principles.html
------------------------------------------------------------------------------





--------------------------------------------------------------
----SHAMELESS-SHELL-STATION-SELLING-DRUG-PARAPHENALIA---------

***   SHELL Gas Station / M+M Market 
 604-589-8292    604-619-7752   403-691-2646    1-800-661-1600
        Gurjit Binning
        10732 - 128 St. Surrey
-------------------------------------------------------------

I stopped into the SHELL Station at 10732 - 128 St. Surrey with my 10 year old 
daughter.  We were planning on buying milk.  Upon entering the store, 
I noticed a large display of drug paraphanalia (large bongs and glass pipes) 
openly displayed on a shelf.  I asked the man behind the till if those were 
pipes for smoking drugs and he said "yes" right in front of my child.  
I then said I can't believe that they're selling drug pipes in front of children 
in a neighbourhood SHELL Station.  The man refused to speak to me so I continued 
my conversation with the woman behind the counter.  After a short while the man 
became irate and told me to either buy something or get out of his store.

I left the store after telling him that I would never buy gas at SHELL again.

I reported this incident to the SHELL customer service line.  The lady I 
spoke to said that they would look into the matter and that they would call 
me back.  I never received a call back from them.  This was weeks ago.

Lisa 

I was with with Lisa when the above happened, and witnessed the entire event. 
My wife and I had been buying gas and milk at this Shell Station for years, 
but I had always turned a blind eye to the drug pipe display.  Now that he 
was telling my sister, her 10 year old daughter and I to get out in such a 
rude manner, I told him that Shell just lost all of our future business, and 
that I would tell everyone I could about how he was treating us.  

The next day I reported this to Narmin(3656) at Shell customer service.
1-800-661-1600.  They assured me that the matter would be handled.  
I advised them I would be videotaping the display for their records, 
and to avoid any "word against word" controversy, should the Shell
station decide to remove the drug pipe display, and deny ever having it.
She gave me the go ahead.

I reported the Shell Station to the Surrey Bylaw and 
they said there was nothing they could do.  

I went to the Shell Station and videotaped the same man who had told us to 
leave.  He was standing in front of his display.  He became agitated and
told me to get out and followed me out of the store.  

Luckily there was a bylaw officer with a marked car sitting right in front of the store. 
So the Shell clerk retreated into his store while I discussed the drug pipe display 
with the bylaw officer.
He said the dislay was not illegal.  
While I was talking to the bylaw officer, 
the SHELL employee came out and said "Why are you bothering me?" 
Again I explained my concerns.
With the bylaws officer present, 
the clerk claimed he would stop selling the pipes.  
I left.

I reported to Shell customer service agent Narmin 
the events of the videotaping and requested immediate action.  
I also made my complaint to Shell regional manager 
Ken Bouchard  (604-619-7752). 
This was months ago.  Mid October 2005.
I have not stopped or shopped at a Shell since.
I have not received a satisfactory response from Shell yet, 
let alone an apology.

I contacted Shell customer service on Oct 26 and spoke to Corinna. 
Still no satisfactory response.

I spoke with Angela at Shell customer service on Nov 18 
and she had assured me that the matter had been dealt with, 
I requested a written response.  
Still no one had asked to see the videotape. 

-----shell's response-received Nov 21, 2005
shell request number
SR # 1-1520800985

Dear ROBERT:

Thank you for bringing your concerns to our attention.  
Customer comments are important to us as they enable us 
to improve our service to the public.  
We are always interested when our customers feel 
their expectations have not been met.

We do not have access to the station listed, 
after investigating the station sent to us, 
we have found that the station is a Canadian location.  

We appreciate the opportunity to serve you in this matter 
and look forward to providing you with quality 
Shell branded products and service in the future.

Sincerely,
Shell Customer Care

  ***
RE: Surrey SHELL station selling crack pipes to children file # 2144941
Good Day,

Thank you for taking the time to contact the Shell Helps Centre 
regarding the unfortunate incident that occurred at a Shell Station 
in Surrey . Customer feedback is something I take very seriously 
and appreciate you having taken the time to email us.
 
The site in question is owned and operated as an independent business, 
they simply sell Shell products.  I have contacted the manager 
to advise him of the complaint we have received, 
and this information will also be reviewed by the Territory Manager. 
Since this station is independent, they are not subject 
to Shell's policies and guidelines.
 
I regret this incident and hope you will consider giving us 
another opportunity to show you that Quality Service 
is of great importance to Shell Canada.
Again, thank you for bringing this matter to my attention.

Sincerely,
Lisa Bzdurreck
Customer Service Representative
Shell Canada Products / Produits Shell Canada 


   ***

Subject:   SSC-Resolution E-mail for SR # 1-1520800985 
From:   ssc@shell.com 
Date:   Mon, November 21, 2005 3:17 pm 
To:   webmaster@visionaryrecords.com 
Priority:   Normal 

Service request number 1-1520800985 has been resolved 
by the Shell Solutions Center
as of 11/21/2005 17:12:49.    
The issue:     SHELL Oil sold me and my son a crack
pipe next door to Daycare [election day Nov 19 2005]


   *** response from newspaper *** 

What's your name and what did your original complaint letter say? 
(please append)
Thanks

Valerie Casselton
City Editor
The Vancouver Sun
(604) 605-2445
(604) 605-2125
vcasselton@png.canwest.com







--------------response from children--------------------
  
AT LEAST HAVE THE DECENCY TO DO IT BEHIND THEIR BACK!!


Four students at a Vancouver elementary school have put pen to paper to 
protest the sale of crack pipes by corner stores.

ON Wednesday, The Province reported on community efforts in Surrey to shame 
store owners into removing the pipes from the sight and reach of children.

That story inspired four Grade 7 students at Britannia Elementary to add 
their written voices to the struggle.

"Right away, they were up in arms," said teacher Justin Borsato. "All of 
them knew a market where (drug paraphernalia) is sold".

The young writers addressed their letters to Tom's Food Market, one of more 
than a dozen Surrey shops identified as selling pipes.

The 12-year-olds used only the first letter of their last names so they 
couldn't be identified by irate addicts, Borsato said.

Here are some excepts from their work:

"Lots of children have little allowance, and they will waist it all on 
drugs...It's like telling kids that candy and drugs are both ok.  You're 
corrupting childrens lives for five dollars.  That's sick" - Paul M.

"Why would you tell someone they are cigarette pipes?  Not only would adults 
know it's not true, but as a twelve-year-old kid I know what both types of 
pipes look like...Kids aren't as moronic as you might think they are" - 
Renee B.

"This, my friend, is not a tobacco pipe.  Frosty the Snowman's pipe looks 
nothing like this crack pipe.  I find you and anyone else selling the pipe 
to be a fool" - Tineke D.

"Think of what are capable of happening if kids like us started buying crack 
pipes, us kids may get mistaken by it, thinking that it's okay because it's 
next to candy racks...Give your head a shake Tom's Market!" - Tobi V.

Kids Scold Corner Store for Selling Crack Pipes
Article in "The Province" newpaper - November 18, 2005








-----------------------------------------------
Surrey Councillor and Now Mayor Dianne Watts 
Confronts Surrey Food Market (Drug Pipe Retailer) 
RCMP involved.  Children present. 

 Surrey Food Market   13446-104 Ave, Surrey.     604-581-4335
--------------------------------------------------------------
I entered SURREY FOOD MARKET with my 10 year old daughter and my brother, Bob.  
On the counter was a huge plexiglass display full of dozens of glass crack 
pipes, large bongs and other drug paraphenalia.  Once again, this display 
was directly behind open boxes of licorice and other candy.  I told the man 
behind the counter that I thought it was terrible to be selling drug pipes 
in front of children.  At the time there was also another child in the store 
about 12 years of age.  The man told us it was none of my business what he 
sold in the store.  A lady then came out from a room behind the counter 
followed by a very young boy.  I asked them if they were the owners 
of the store and they said yes.  I then asked if they 
thought it was a good idea to invite drug users into their store by selling 
these pipes, when they had young children themselves present.  The woman 
started to respond angrily but the man told her not to say anything and he 
then demanded that we get out of his store.  I continued to tell them that I 
was going to report them to the bylaw department because I had just been at 
an all candidates meeting where I was told by council members that open 
displays beside candy were no longer being tolerated in Surrey.  The 
man yelled at me and my daughter and brother to get out of the store or he 
would call the police.  He then picked up the phone and called the RCMP.  
The police showed up within minutes and told us to leave the store and wait 
outside to talk to them, which we did.  They then came outside and when we 
tried to tell them that we were there because we didn't want crack pipes 
being displayed for sale in front of kids, the police officer said that we 
were "disturbing the peace" and that he could and would arrest us if we 
tried to come back to this store.  This was all taking place in front of my 
ten year old daughter.  We explained to the officer that we just came from 
an all candidates meeting at Surrey Central and that Dianne Watts had announced 
to the audience that if there were still stores displaying crack pipes, 
she would "personally come down and remove them from the shelves herself".  
The RCMP told us that the storeowners were doing nothing wrong in the eyes of the 
law and that we should "write our politicians".

We then left and went immediately back to the all candidates meeting where 
my brother, Bob, announced to the room that not only were the crack pipes 
still at all the stores, but there was a store just a block away that was 
selling them and that they had called the police on us when we expressed our 
views about it.

He then challenged all the council members and candidates to come down and 
see for themselves.  We then returned to the store.  As soon as he saw us 
pull our car in, the storeowner called the police and they reappeared within 
moments.  The police officer then approached us and told us in a harsh tone 
"You were told to stay away from here".  It was at that moment that candidates
Jim King and Amrik Mahil showed up, followed shortly by Dianne Watts. 
The police spoke to Dianne who then went into the store, escorted by two police 
officers and followed by the other two candidates.  It seems those three were 
the only ones who drove the block from the meeting at Surrey Central / SFU.

Dianne spoke to the storeowners while we waited in our car.  Everyone came 
back out and she said that they had "agreed" to take down the pipes.  We 
thanked her and left.  

My brother went back a few days later with his wife and 5 year old son to 
buy some diapers and his entire family was thrown out of the store in front 
of other customers.  Bob thanked him for taking the pipes out of the display case, 
which was still on the counter.  The man yelled at his wife to call the police.   
The woman picked up the phone so Bob and his wife drove away.
We will never go back there except to check if the pipes are still off the 
candy shelf.  We have no guarantee that they will stay out of sight.
Lisa







------------------------------------------------------------
--HOSTILE-ESSO-SELLING-CRACK-PIPES---
------------------------------------------------------------

***   ESSO Gas Station (Imperial Oil) / Banny's Market  
                        604-590-3596    1-800-567-3776
        Kulwinder & Gurjit Binning
        7631 - 128 St. Surrey  
------------------------------------------------
Lisa and I entered the gas station and we immediately saw a large glass display case full of drug pipes 
next to the candy and the cash register.
I asked the clerk specifically for a "crack pipe" and he produced a thin glass tube from behind the counter. 
I asked him if it was for smoking crack and he said "yes".  
I said "Wow, you're selling crack pipes and candy together on the same counter?"
He replied "You want to buy both?"
Lisa told him that selling drug pipes next to candy in a corner store where children shop is wrong.
I asked for the owner's name, but the clerk would not give it to me.
We continued to protest to the clerk.  Asking them to be more socially responsible.
A woman then entered the store and claimed to be the owner.
When we explained our position, that, as parents, we did not want our children to see drug pipes in plain view 
beside the candy when we go to buy gas at our neighbourhood ESSO station, she said "I DON'T CARE".
We tried to continue the conversation about protecting children from exposure to the world of drugs.
She told us to "GET OUT!"
This whole conversation was recorded by CityTV Television News.
The situation almost got out of control when we were suddenly surrounded by several men who began to shout, 
argue with us, call us names, and otherwise verbally abuse us.
Who they were, I have no idea.
Just as it looked like they were going to get physical with us, the CityTV news crew made their presence known.
CityTV news were there to record the event which may have saved us from being assaulted. 
By this time the woman was attempting to physically push Lisa out of the door 
while Lisa was yelling "Don't touch me!" 
When the woman saw the reporter she quickly retreated and hid her face from the camera.  
When I picked up the glass display case to show it to the camera, 
the woman grabbed the phone and said she was calling the police.
I asked the clerk to show me the crack pipe again and he claimed they did not have any crack pipes.
We left the store, but were subjected to further yelling in the parking lot by the angry men, 
some of whom had followed us outside.  The CityTV News camera recorded this behaviour.
We got in our cars and drove away.

Please tell ESSO (Imperial Oil) what you think about this: 
http://imperialoil.ca/Canada-English/Forms/Feedback_form.asp
1-800-567-3776

This is ESSO's official policy "cut & pasted" from their website.
http://www.esso.ca/Canada-English/Corporate_Citizenship/CC_SR_Community.asp
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Community and Society

Community Engagement and Corporate Citizenship

"Strong community relationships are essential to the 
successful operation of a business, and we work continuously 
to improve the quality of our community engagement. 
In 2004, an initiative to encourage excellence in developing 
and maintaining strong community relationships was launched. 
The initiative provides flexible measurement and assessment tools, 
metrics and frameworks to help define community needs and goals, 
develop activities, and measure effectiveness."

Part of the Community

"Maintaining open lines of communication and encouraging feedback 
from communities where we operate is vital, both in terms of being 
a good neighbour and enabling us to achieve our business goals."

http://www.esso.ca/Canada-English/Corporate_Citizenship/CC_SR_Community.asp
----------
> sent to esso
> Subject: Re: ESSO & SHELL Stations Selling Drug Pipes

> Name: GERRY PREDDY
> E-mail: t5742021@telus.net
> Station Name: ESSO Gas Station (Imperial Oil) / Banny's Market 604-590-3596
> Location: 7631 - 128 St. Surrey
> City: surrey
> Province: bc
> Comments: please ask your gas station client to stop selling drug smoking pipes
>           immediately and if not I will never buy gas from esso ever again
> From:    "Gerry Preddy" 
> Date:    Fri, November 18, 2005 7:11 am
-------
I will contact Esso and thank you for your efforts.
Steve 


Steven Moore
Moore & Associates, Training and Consulting
Phone: 604 961 6753
Email:  sdmoore@shaw.ca
 
Steven D. MOORE for School Trustee
www.independentcandidate.ca 
--------------------------------------------------------








-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
VIOLENT ENCOUNTER:  Maple Pizza / Grace Market.  10063-117 St, Surrey. 604-582-0006
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mother terrorized while trying to protect children from 
Crack Pipes for sale in neighbourhood Candy Stores!
---------------------------------------------------

Lisa Ebenal, a working mother of 2 children, was threatened, 
abused and terrorized by several businessmen, to the point of tears, 
after she requested a local convenience store to stop selling drug pipes, 
openly displayed in large glass cases, directly adjacent to candy, 
in full view of children and young teens, in a suburban neighbourhood.   

These events were videotaped on Saturday afternoon.  November 12, 2005.

What follows is an eyewitness account of the events 
by the VideoCameraman, Robert Stierle.

"At Maple Pizza... after requesting the name of the owner of the store 
and taking a picture of the 4 foot tall glass case 
displaying Drug Pipes at children's eye level 
(immediately adjacent to the potato chips rack and opposite the chocolate bar shelves), 
we were told to leave the store by the female clerk.  
We stepped outside.  

While in the parking lot of the store I was assaulted 
by the female clerk who had followed us outside.  
She jumped on my back and tried to smash my camera.  
When Lisa phoned the RCMP to report the assault, 
the police advised us to remain at the scene, 
but not to stay on the MAPLE PIZZA premises.  

We parked the car across the street and waited for the RCMP.  
While waiting, a young man and a different woman came out of the store, 
crossed the street and tried to open our driver's side door.  
We locked the car doors.  
We told them we did not want to talk and that the police were on the way.  
The woman was yelling, and the male went to the front of the car 
to provoke me through the windshield.  
He kept asking me to 'step outside" and made threatening gestures and rude hand signals.  
He used all the cliche phrases of 'I'm gonna kick your ass' etc.  
I repeated that the Police were on the way.  
The couple returned to the store.  

A few minutes later, another adult male 
(later identified as the store owner Balkar Gill), 
came across the street, copied our license plate number, 
then tried to open the passenger side door where I was sitting.  
I told him the police were coming.  
He told me to roll down the window.  
I ignored him.  
He went over the driver side door and tried to open the door.  
He then told Lisa to roll her window down.  
She refused and told him to talk to the police.  
He started punching her window, apparently trying to break it.  
This frightened Lisa very much and she called 911 
to request that the police please hurry, 
that we were being terrorized in a car 
which was not even on the property of Maple Pizza.  
The owner stopped hitting the car and returned to his store, 
but by this time Lisa was extremely afraid to the point of tears.  

The RCMP showed up and we gave our statements to 
Cst.Mark Alexander (incident file #05-143480).  
While were talking to the policeman, the young male and female 
came from across the street to threaten us further.  
The policeman intervened and was forced to physically 
restrain the young man, who would not calm down. 
He continued to make rude hand gestures while voicing challenges and threats.  
The couple was told to go back to the store.  
The officer talked to us at length, asked us to wait, and then went MAPLE PIZZA.
 
A while later, the woman who originally assaulted me in the store parking lot 
came across the street with the RCMP officer.  
She was apologetic, and begged me not show the video footage to anyone 
because she was concerned about her public image.  
I told her to stop selling drug pipes next to chocolate bars in our neighbourhood 
and she would have nothing to be ashamed of.  
She said there was nothing she could do about it, 
because she was 'only the owner's wife'.  
She indentified her husband (the owner) as the man 
who had tried to break our car window.  

He did NOT come over to apologize for terrorizing 
Lisa and making her fear for her safety."  

update: The good news is... 
after dozens of local residents expressed their opinions to the owners, 
MAPLE PIZZA claims they have removed their display.  
Let's hope they sustain that socially responsible policy. 
Please phone and thank them.
 






--------------------------------------------------------
RCMP involved.   Child involved.
Master Foods.    9577-128 St, Surrey.       604-583-3299
--------------------------------------------------------
Bob and I went into this store in the middle of the day with my 10 year old 
daughter.  We started to put some items on the counter to purchase when Bob 
noticed a very large plexiglass display of drug paraphenalia including a 
huge assortment of brightly coloured bongs, and glass and metal pipes, many 
of them with large marijuana leaf logos on them.  Attached to the actual 
front of this display were plexiglass compartments holding penny candies.  
Behind the counter was a man in his 50s.  We said we're not buying anything 
in his store if he's selling crack pipes.  He just smirked at us and said 
"go take it somewhere else".  We asked if he was the owner of the store and 
he said "I represent the owner, now get the F___ out".  He came out from 
behind the counter and headed towards my brother at which time I said "don't 
you dare touch him".  He backed off but proceeded to yell at us to get out 
using profane language.  I told him to stop swearing at my daughter who was 
by this time shaking from fear.  He looked at her and said "your parents are 
losers".  He assumed that my brother was her father. My daughter became 
upset and began to cry.  My brother said he should be ashamed of himself, 
saying those things to a little girl.  He said "All three of you are losers" 
which included my child.  He told my brother to "get a job" and continued to 
swear and verbally abuse us.  I said I'm not going to tolerate anyone 
bullying us like that and making my daughter cry and I wanted to know the 
name of the owner of the store.  He said he was going to call the police if 
we didn't leave, which he did.  While we continued to wait for the police to
arrive the "clerk" continued to swear and provoke my brother.  During this 
time a person came in who admitted to buying pipes there and even he thought 
that the pipes should not be next to candy.  The clerk yelled at him to 
"GET THE F___ OUT!"  A policeman showed up and immediately told "clerk" to 
"shut up".  The officer then asked us to leave the store, which we did.  The 
officer spoke to him, then came outside and spoke to us.  Meanwhile a lady 
officer showed up as well and was very understanding.  She explained to my 
daughter that the man behind the counter was not behaving like a grown up 
and that my daughter should disregard the comments that the man had made to 
her.  These officers said they agreed that what this man was doing was 
"distasteful" but that it was not illegal and they recommended that we 
should stay away from this store because it probably wasn't safe for us to 
return there.

We apologised for them having to waste their time and we left.

The following Monday Bob returned with the NOW newspaper.

This comes from the article:

"he told the owner he thinks it's wrong for stores to have drug paraphernalia 
next to candy displays, pointing to the row of bulk candies at the front of a 
display case of brightly-coloured bongs and an assortment of crack pipes. 

The owner protested that it's not illegal, 
to which BOB said, "Neither is hard core porn." 
He reiterated his plea to remove the drug paraphernalia 
because it's the "socially responsible thing to do." 
The owner said his English was too poor to understand. 
King Stierle tried again, pointing at the penny candy 
and bongs. The owner finally said he would talk to his lawyer about it, 
but wouldn't commit to removing the display. 

In such cases, BOB said, he has about 30 local residents 
who call store owners to tell them they too 
believe it is "socially irresponsible and unacceptable" 
to have drug paraphernalia for sale next to candies meant 
for youngsters.  One of the local churches has a large 
Korean-speaking congregation, and has offered to translate 
for owners who plead a language barrier." 

Please thank the Church (584-7288) which has helped the Coalition of Parents.







------------SHAMELESS-SHOPOWNERS-------
Dollar Plus Discount   (604-594-9958)   
C-7155 - 138 St.  Surrey
NEWTON TOWN CENTER
---------------------------------------
This store is located next door to a Safeway, 
in the same mall as a Dairy Queen, a Waterslide/Wave Pool, an Ice 
Skating Arena, a Community Center, etc.  
There were children everywhere, including inside DOLLAR PLUS DISCOUNT 
as Lisa and I entered the store. 

We observed a meter high glass counter display, at children's eye level, 
sitting on the floor beside candy and toy displays typical for a "dollar store".  
I asked the young male clerk for a "crack pipe" and I was immediately given a glass tube.  
I then asked how I could smoke crack in this, and the female clerk said "You need Brillo" 
and quickly provided a small unpackaged piece of steel wool. 
 
Lisa purchased the products with her card for a total of $3.17. 
There were, at that very moment, several families with children inside the store with us.  
After we had paid for the items, we then asked the three clerks if they thought it was OK 
to sell crack pipes in a store where children shop.  
The elderly gentleman smiled and claimed he could not speak English.  
The young male clerk told me that they were not crack pipes.   
I said "I just asked for a crack pipe and you sold me these", indicating my recently purchased "crack kit".  
He said he did not know what it was.  
Then the female clerk said "You have no right to criticize.  You bought the crack pipe".  
To which I replied, "So now you admit you sold me a crack pipe".  
She then said the pipes were legal.  

This whole conversation was recorded by CityTV Television News.
I pulled out my camera and said, 
"So I guess you won't mind if I help you sell your product with a little free advertising".  
All three clerks ran in front of the display and attempted to block my view with their bodies. 
Lisa said, "Why are you ashamed of your legal product?" 

The young male clerk told us to get out of the store and grabbed the telephone to call someone. 
At this time, the CityTV news reporter appeared at the door and beckoned us to come outside.
CityTV had filmed the entire transaction through the shop window. 
 
As we were leaving, the male clerk told me to stay where I was because 
he had some people on the way, who wanted to talk to me.  
When the clerks saw the camera crew, they said that they only worked there 
and would speak to the owner of the store about the pipes.  

We left the store, warning the customers with children 
that the store was selling drug pipes.  

Some chose to leave immediately, others chose to stay 
and be interviewed by the television station.
  
The Coalition of Parents needs your help.  
Please contact:
 ** Safeway           604-594-9155   1-800-723-3929, 
 ** Dairy Queen               604-590-3933, 
 ** Newton Wave Pool          604-501-5540, 
 ** Newton Arena              604-501-5044, 
 ** Newton Community Center   604-501-5040, 

Please let them know how you feel about crack pipes for sale in THEIR mall, 
where children are expected to play, swim, skate, shop, and eat DQ ice cream.  
Ask them to speak to the MALL MANAGER.  
Ask them to please be aware, stay alert and remain vigilant 
when it comes to what is being sold by their neighbouring businesses.

It takes a whole village to raise a child.  
Please get involved.  Thank You.
Every phone call counts!
LISA  lisaebenal_1@hotmail.com

  ***
> From: "jkpotter" 
> To: "'Lisa Ebenal'" 
> Subject: RE: our $ store issue
> Date: Mon, 21 Nov 2005 09:56:01 -0800
>
> Dropped by my Safeway this morning and got a chance to talk to ? someone
> important...he was in shirt-sleeves and a tie...
> He said the media had been to the Dollar Store in that complex this Sat
> past (Nov 19). Apparently, the items in question had been removed.
> Thanks for bringing this matter to our attention; we will continue to be
> vigilant. T, J & H (Potter)
>







--------------------------------------------------------
RCMP involved.  Children involved.
Yee's Market    13208-80 Ave, Surrey.       604-594-1465
--------------------------------------------------------
"I stopped at Yee's Market on a weekend and waited in the car with my children 
while my brother ran in to get a newspaper.  After waiting for some time, I 
went in to see what was taking him so long.  He was surrounded by a number 
of people, one of whom was holding a small girl of about 2.  I asked what 
was going on and he pointed to the plexiglass display on the counter full of 
glass and metal pipes, the type used to smoke crack and meth.  This display 
was literally surrounded by small plastic bags full of penny candy as well 
as chocolate bars and other kids candy.  He said that they had called the 
police because he was demanding to know why they would be selling drug pipes 
next to candy in front of children.   While we waited for the police to arrive, 
he continued to try to appeal to the decency and social responsibility of these people, 
one of whom identified himself as the owner.  They were claiming a language barrier, 
but also maintained that the pipes were legal.  The police arrived and told us 
to leave the store.  We walked outside with one policeman.  Outside, Bob 
told the officer that the reason he was so upset was because these people 
were ignoring his pleas to remove the drug pipes from the candy counter.
The police officer said "you better calm down or I'm going to arrest you for 
disturbing the peace".  I was astounded by this and said "you're going to 
arrest him for telling these people that they're being socially 
irresponsible".  He then repeated his threat that he would arrest Bob if he 
didn't calm down.  Bob said "how can I be calm when they're displaying crack 
pipes in front of kids buying candy, go ahead and arrest me".  The officer 
then told us that we were disturbing their "place of business" and it would 
be best if we left the property and didn't come back to that store.  
We left."
LISA






--------------------------------------------------------
GLOBAL NEWS involved.       Children involved.
Scott Hill Convenience.     1-9886-120 St, Surrey.    604-588-2220
--------------------------------------------------------

Local business only after profit 

In my area, Scott Hill Convenience store highlights the drug paraphernalia 
with a flashing strobe type light! 

When I asked the owner why he sold the drug paraphernalia, and asked him 
if a neighbourhood of drug pushers and addicts was what he wanted his baby girl 
to grow up in (she was in the mother's arms when I spoke to the father/owner) 
his reply was curt: they are not illegal and everyone is selling it. 
As if that makes it right. 

That conversation took place more than two years ago and it was the last time 
my children, their friends, and many neighbours and myself shopped at this store. 

Lori Douglas 
Surrey 


   - GLOBAL NEWS confronts SCOTT HILL Convenience -

this store is only two blocks from my house. 

i entered the store and of course there was a drug pipe display 
next to the cash register and children's candy counter. 

after a friendly hello, and some pleasant small talk, i started asking 
the man behind the counter why he was selling drug pipes next to candy 
where children shop. he denied they were drug pipes. 

i told him that several people in the immediate neighbourhood 
had asked me to ask him to stop selling the pipes. this was completely true. 
i had received many requests from parents who had already tried boycotting 
this store for months with no results. 

he told me he it was 'his' store, to which i replied 
it was 'our' neighbourhood and he needed to show more consideration 
for our concerns if he wanted to be a good neighbour. 

he quickly lost patience and started yelling at me and telling me to get out. 
the GLOBAL news camera team were recording this entire event from outside the store.
 
the merchant came out from behind his counter and came toward me in a threatening manner, 
all the while swearing and yelling.  i did not budge, and continued to repeat the phrase 
"Please stop selling crack pipes where our kids buy candy," while he kept yelling. 

i left the store, and the GLOBAL reporter immediately entered with the cameraman. 
the reporter began to ask exactly the same questions i had been asking, 
but with the camera right in his face, the merchant dropped his defiant posture, 
and agreed to remove the pipes from the shelf.  
the story was broadcast that night on GLOBAL TV.

the very next day, GLOBAL visited this store again, 
and the guy had the pipes back up on the shelf. 
he again told the reporter he would remove the pipes.  
this confrontation was broadcast on GLOBAL TV that night.

the day after that, i dropped by with my wife and children, 
and the pipes were back on the shelf (AGAIN). 
he repeated that they were tobacco pipes. 
i showed the pipe to his other customers and every person 
in that store told him (AGAIN) that these were hash pipes, crack pipes, etc. 
he removed the pipes from the shelf (AGAIN) and said he would stop. 

please give him a call, or drop by and remind him of his promise 
to the children and parents living near his candy store.  
604-588-2220








---------------CHILD SAFETY ALERT------------------------------


Paul & Brenda Food Market
14414 - 104th Avenue, Surrey, BC
Phone:  (604) 581-2363

This store has a very large display of drug paraphanalia (crack pipes, meth 
pipes, bongs) in a glass counter front display right at eye level of small 
children.  This display is surrounded by the usual assorted candy that is 
found at corner store tills.

I left the store without speaking to the person behind the till.

update:  January 10, 2006
I telephoned this store today and asked them if they had crack pipes for sale.
I specifically said "CRACK PIPES" loudly and clearly so there would be no mistake.
The female who answered the phone was happy to tell me that they had crack pipes 
for sale.  I then asked if they had any "BONGS".  She said yes.  When I told her 
that as a parent living in her community, I did not think she should be selling 
drug pipes in a store where children shop for candy.  She said it was not illegal.
I asked her if she thought it was ok for kids to shop in the same store where 
people addicted to dangerous drugs were coming to buy their drug-smoking tools.  
She claimed she could not speak english very well and did not understand.  
I tried to ask more questions but she hung up the phone.
Bob





---------------CHILD SAFETY ALERT-------------------------------

Marmac Grocery
2 - 14902 - 104th Avenue, Surrey, BC
Phone:  (604) 585-3330


This store had a plexiglass display with drug pipes in it on the counter by 
the till, surrounded by the candy.  They also had large, brightly coloured 
glass bongs displayed in clear view on a shelf above the check out counter.

I left this store without confronting the person behind the till.

Thanks,

Lisa





----------------------------------------------------------------------
RUDE ENCOUNTER:  Tom's Food Market. 10823-148 St, Surrey. 604-581-7616
----------------------------------------------------------------------
"At TOM'S FOOD MARKET, there was a large glass case of pipes sitting 
right on the checkout counter surrounded by bags of penny candy.  
While I videotaped, Lisa asked him if he was the owner, to which he replied 'Yes'.  
When we asked his name he said 'Jim'.  
Lisa asked him why he was selling pipes next to kid's candy, 
he replied that he did not sell pipes.  
Lisa pointed at the display and asked him what was in the case.  
He said he did not know what those items were.  

Lisa tried to continue the conversation, but the store owner started yelling 'Get out!'  
HE came out from behind the counter in an aggressive manner, moving toward her.  
I immediately left the store and filmed through the window as the store owner yelled at Lisa, 
who was slowly backing up toward the door.  

At one point he actually laid a hand on her, 
but she said 'Don't touch me' and he stopped.  
While he continued to yell at her, she exited the store.  
Once we were in the parking lot getting into the car, 
he came outside to further verbally abuse her with loud insults, 
ricicule, and namecalling, until she was inside the car.  
We then drove away."

STORES OPENLY SELL CRACK PIPES - Province Newspaper November 16, 2005

"A large glass display case of pipes was on the front counter at "Tom's Food 
Market on 148th Street yesterday.  A sticker on the case noted the dozens of 
pipes inside were for "legitimate use" only.  Crack pipes were for sale for 
$4.39 (an even $5 including tax).

The woman behind the counter pointed out that the slightly smaller glass 
tubes in a box atop the cash register were far cheaper at $1.75 ($2 with 
tax).  The smaller tubes have a peel-back lid on one end and hold a single 
plastic flower.  It takes less than five seconds to convert one into a crack 
pipe.

When owner Saeyl Pok was asked why he was selling the pipes, he said they 
were "cigarette pipes".

He said he planned to return the large case of pipes to the wholesaler.  
Asked about the flower tubes, Pok said he didn't know what they were for.

"People ask, and i just sell it"

mramsey@png.canwest.com






----------------------------------------------------------------------
RUDE ENCOUNTER:  Food Town. 9583-132 St, Surrey. 604-584-5646
----------------------------------------------------------------------

This store had politely agreed with us for weeks, promising to hide the pipes.
They never did.

On a monday afternoon Bob went to FOOD TOWN with the NOW newspaper.
Here is a piece from that article.

"Food Town, at 95th Avenue and 132nd Street, the manager wasn't on site, but 
the paraphernalia display was still at the front counter near fresh cut flowers. 
BOB gave his spiel to a female employee who became upset and yelled that she 
can't do anything about it. 
He promised to return to speak with the owner yet again." 







------------------------------------------------------------------------
PEACEFUL ENCOUNTER:  U-Save Grocery. 14675-108 Ave, Surrey. 604-584-9944
------------------------------------------------------------------------
"We went to U-SAVE GROCERY and I pretended I was looking for a pipe.  
I specifically asked, 'Do you have any Crack Pipes?'  
The old woman behind the counter smiled and showed me a box of glass pipes 
with fake flowers inside them and pieces of steel wool (brillo) beside them.  
These items were neatly displayed in a little box on the counter beside the 
cash register and next to the children's candy.  

I asked how these could be used as pipes and she gladly explained how to 
break of the tip of the flower holder and put some brillo in the end 
to act as a filter to hold the drug while smoking it.  

Lisa then told the woman that it was not decent of her to sell 
crack pipes in a store where children shop.  There were, in fact, 
two young girls about 10-13 years old in the store at that moment buying candy.  
The woman said it was not illegal to sell them.  

We told her that we would be reporting her to the bylaw enforcement.  
At this point the store clerk claimed she could not speak english.  
She refused to respond to further questions.  
We took a picture of the display and left the store.  Peacefully."



---------------CHILD SAFETY ALERT-------------------------------

Townline Market.             
12574-96 Ave, Surrey.    
(telephone number?)

This store had a shelf display with drug pipes on it 
behind the counter by the till, surrounded by candy, 
and transparent plastic bags of steel wool and brillo pads.

I left this store without confronting the person behind the till.

Thanks,
Lisa

I pointed to  the pipes and tried to talk to the clerk about them.  
He apparently thought I wanted to buy one. 
When I tried to explain that selling drug pipes 
in a store where children buy candy was not acceptable, 
the elderly clerk claimed he could not speak English.
He then shut up and stared straight ahead, avoiding eye contact.
After a few more attempts at speaking to a silent old man, 
while he pretended I was not there, 
I left and never returned.

Bob.


---------------CHILD SAFETY ALERT-------------------------------

  
Dollar Plus Variety.         
14843-108 Ave,   Surrey.    
604-584-7751


This store had a shelf display with drug pipes, hookahs, bongs, 
waterpipes, etc. behind the counter by the till.

I left this store without confronting the person behind the till.

Thanks,

Lisa


I spotted the drug pipes easily behind the smiling clerk, 
displayed over his shoulder there were the little glass tubes, 
and other fancy pipes.  There were families with kids in the store.  
I asked him why he was selling drug pipes in a mall, 
with children shopping for cheap toys and candy.  
He stopped smiling and said they were perfectly legal.
I said that it was still wrong for him to do this.  
He told me that he did not sell the pipes to children 
and promised he would stop selling them.

bob

---------------CHILD SAFETY ALERT-------------------------------

  
Dollar Plus.                 
12880-96 Ave,    Surrey.    
604-584-0616  604-581-5226



This store had a huge glass display case, 
at child's eye level, 
right beside the main entrance door, very visible.  
the well-lit display case contained three or four shelves 
loaded with a huge assortment of drug pipes on it. 
Several colourful signs attached to the case advertised 
special deals for the various types of pipes, up to 50% off.
The store was busy and full of families with children.

We began to complain loudly to the check-out person,
but she ignored us.  a man, came over and asked us 
what the problem was.  we pointed out the the children 
standing right in front of the display case full of 
drug pipes (including glass meth/crack-cocaine tubes).  
some of the kids were looking right into the case 
while their parents were paying for merchandise. 

He told us that they would stop selling the pipes, 
but not today, and certainly not right now.

We then went to the Pharmacy next door and complained 
to the store manager about his neighbour's actions. 
We told her that Dollar Plus is attracting addicts to this area 
by offering a wide selection of drug pipes at discount prices.  
We would not be shopping at this mall or pharmacy again 
until the pipe sale was over.  

The store manager said she was not aware of the pipes, 
and told us she was not happy about it. 
she would look into it and get back to us.
We never heard from her again.


Thanks,
Lisa


---------------CLOVERDALE RODEO-------------------------------

Crack pipes, Candy apples, and Cowboy hats 
sold side-by-side at the Cloverdale Rodeo.

Cloverdale Rodeo is advertised as 
"One of the most popular family events in Western Canada" 
and described as an "old-fashioned country fair" 
with "great family attractions".

On Friday, May 19, 2006, I was at the Cloverdale Rodeo 
walking along the midway with my daughter (10 years old) 
and her two friends (11 and 12 years old).  
I stopped at one of the many vendor booths 
to look at their T-shirts for sale 
and one of the children called my attention 
to a large display of glass crack pipes and bongs 
being sold at the same booth.  

I asked the man operating the booth why 
he was selling drug pipes at a "family fair" 
where there were hundreds of children and teenagers 
walking down the midway in front of his booth.  
He was abrupt and told me that he was just selling the pipes 
and not the drugs to smoke in them.  
I said this was unacceptable and wanted him to stop 
displaying the pipes for sale in front of the children present.  
He brushed me off so I went to security and asked them 
to call administration and ask if they thought 
these items were appropriate to be sold at a "family fair".  
He contacted administration who told him that 
they didn't have time to come down and 
see what i was talking about and 
that I should call the police non emergency number 
and make a complaint if I didn't agree with what he was selling. 

The next day I spoke to Bob and Wendy of Westcoast Amusements 
who were in charge of the midway attractions and 
they took immediate action and issued a warning 
to all of the vendors that they cannot sell these items. 

Lisa Ebenal
lisaebenal_1@hotmail.com

Please help us make sure this never happens again.

=========================================

Here is the list of people to contact 
about drug pipes being sold openly 
at a display booth on the midway 
at the cloverdale rodeo, 
right in the face of families with children and teenagers. 

The pipe vendor on site did not voluntarily comply 
with the request of the woman and three girls 
(ages 10, 11, and 12), all of whom immediately 
asked him to stop selling the pipes.  

I have included a list of cloverdale rodeo sponsors below. 
Please feel free to question them about the connection 
between corporate sponsorship and community responsibility.  

They welcome your input and 
it is your right to express yourself.

Thank You. 
Surrey Coalition of Parents
http://www.visionaryrecords.com/crackpipesincandystorescrusade/COPrecords.html

---------RodeoORGANIZERS--------------- 

The Cloverdale Rodeo and Exhibition Association 
6050A-176th Street 
Surrey, British Columbia 
Canada V3S 4E7 

Tel: 604-576-9461  Valerie 
Fax: 604-576-0216 

info@cloverdalerodeo.com 

--------------------------- 
West Coast Amusements Ltd. 
Head Office & Winter Quarters 
6982 - 206th Street 
Langley, BC Canada 
V2Y 1R2 

Office: 604-534-3358 
328-2325 
807-9344 Bob Hauser 
613-2056 Wendy Hauser 
604-202-2924 
Fax: 604-328-2124 

info@westcoastamusements.com 
wendy@westcoastamusements.com 


------------RodeoSPONSORS-------------- 

Official Cloverdale Rodeo Sponsors – 
Let them know how you feel about their support 
of the rodeo and ask them what their policy is 
regarding the open sale of drug pipes at a family event.
 
We cannot afford apathy or complacency.  
The danger to our children is real.

all-in-one sponsor email list

info@cloverdalerodeo.com,info@westcoastamusements.com,wendy@westcoastamusements.com,cloverdalebia@telus.net,clovcham@axion.net,cupe402@telus.net,sales@dendoff.com,info@hamptoninnlangley.com,info@oktire.com,info@streamorganics.com,info@surreychamber.com,wbinquiries@bentall.com,info@cknw.com,cjjr@JRfm.com,info@am1320.com,info@rock101.com,news1130@news1130.rogers.com,comments@starfm.com,info@z95.com,info@nowtv.ca,dskulsky@png.canwest.com,sales@ableoffice.net,rentals@apextents.com,info@applewoodkia.ca,info@bbcontracting.com,info@cvs-controls.com,cboelema@friesenequipment.com,rmorgan@friesenequipment.com,friesen@friesenequipment.com,vwright@wajax.com,mcoulbourn@wajax.com,radios@norquip.com,info@noteable.net,contacts@supersave.ca,info@westcoastfamilies.com,editor@bcparent.com,customer_service@timhortons.com,info@vitalinkevents.com,Management@willowbrookchrysler.com,600am@600am.com

detailed sponsor information.

Art Knapp Garden Centre - Head Office 
1300 Dominion Ave. 
Port Coquitlam, BC V3C 3V4 
Phone: 604-942-7518 

BC Lottery Corporation - Head Office 
74 West Seymour St. 
Kamloops, BC V2C 1E2 
Online form: http://www.bclc.com/app/Footer/Feedback.asp 
Phone: 1-866-815-0222 or 
250-828-5500 

Budweiser Anheuser-Busch, Inc. 
One Busch Place 
St. Louis, MO 63118 USA 
Online form: https://contactus.anheuser-busch.com/contactus/email.asp 
Phone: 1-800-342-5283 

Cloverdale Business Improvement Association 
#202 - 17687 56A Ave. 
Surrey, BC V3S 1G4 
Email: cloverdalebia@telus.net 
Phone: 604-576-3155 

Cloverdale Chamber of Commerce 
17687 56A Ave. 
Surrey, BC V3S 1G4 
Email: clovcham@axion.net 
Phone: 604-574-9802 

Coast Capital Savings - Head Office 
15117 101 Ave. 
Surrey, BC V3R 8P7 
Online form: https://www.coastcapitalsavings.com/ContactUs/GeneralFeedback 
Phone: 604-517-7400 

The Coca-Cola Company 
PO Box 1734 
Atlanta, GA 30301 USA 
Online form: http://www2.coca-cola.com/mail/eQuery_other.html 

Corporate Express 
1125 Vernon Dr. 
Vancouver, BC V6A 3P5 
Phone: 604-258-7000 

Country Stitch Embroidery 
23966 32 Ave. 
Langley, BC V2Z 2J2 
Phone: 604-514-3224 

CUPE Local 402 
251 - 12899 76th Ave. 
Surrey, BC V3W 1E6 
Email: cupe402@telus.net 
Phone: 604-543-3822 

Daimler Chrysler Canada 
Mark Norman, CEO 
One Riverside Drive West 
Windsor, ON N9A 5K3 
Phone: HQ: 519-973-2000 or 
Customer Assistance: 1-800-465-2001 

Dendoff Springs Ltd. 
12045 Yale Road 
Surrey, BC V3V 3X4 
Email: sales@dendoff.com 
Phone: 604-580-3400 or 
toll free: 1-800-661-4205 

Hampton Inns & Suites - Langley/Surrey 
19500 Langley Bypass 
Surrey, BC V3S 7R2 
Email: info@hamptoninnlangley.com 
Phone: 604-530-6545 or 
toll free: 1-866-530-6545 

IHOP – Langley 
19600 Langley Bypass 
Langley, BC V3A 7B1 
Phone: 604-530-1169 

Keg Steakhouse & Bar 
10100 Shellbridge Way 
Richmond, BC V6X 2W7 
Online form: http://www.kegsteakhouse.com - "Contact Us" 
Phone: 604-276-0242 

Mac's Convenience Stores - Western Division – BC #11026 
Unit #1013 - 7445 132nd St. 
Surrey, BC V3W 1J8 
Online form: http://www.macs.ca/Feedback.asp 
Phone: 604-590-5352 

OK Tire Stores 
9430 - 198 St. 
Langley, BC V1M 3C8 
Email: info@oktire.com 
Phone: 604-888-3000 or 
toll free: 1-800-663-1749 

Pharmasave 
6350 - 203 St. 
Langley, BC V2Y 1L9 
Phone: 604-532-2250 

Save On Foods – Overwaitea Food Group 
Steve Vandrleest, President 
PO Box 7200 
Vancouver, BC V6B 4E4 
Online form: http://saveonfoods.com/contact.htm 
Phone: 604-888-1213 or 
toll free: 1-800-242-9229 

Schneider Foods - Head Office 
321 Courtland Ave. East 
PO Box 130 
Kitchener, ON N2G 3X8 
Online form: http://www.schneiders.ca/contact/form.html 
Phone: 1-800-567-1890 

Stream Organic Management 
1119 176th St. 
Surrey, BC V3S 9S5 
Email: info@streamorganics.com 
604-535-4149 

Surrey Chamber of Commerce 
#101 - 14436 - 104th Ave. 
Surrey, BC V3R 1M1 
Email: info@surreychamber.com 
Phone: 604-581-7130 

Terasen Inc. - Head Office 
111 West Georgia St. 
Vancouver, BC V6E 4M4 
Phone: 604-443-6500 

WestJet Airlines - Head Office 
5055 11th St. NE 
Calgary, AB T2E 8N4 
Phone: 403-444-2600 or 
toll free: 1-877-952-2737 

Willowbrook Shopping Centre - Administration 
#150 - 19705 Fraser Hwy. 
Langley, BC V3A 7E9 
Email: wbinquiries@bentall.com 
Phone: 604-530-4492 or 
604-530-2115 

CKNW AM980 
Suite 2000 - 700 W. Georgia St. 
Vancouver, BC V7Y 1K9 
Email: info@cknw.com 
Phone: 604-331-2711 

CFOX FM99.3 
Suite 2000 - 700 W. Georgia St. 
Vancouver, BC V7Y 1K9 
Phone: 604-684-7221 or 
toll free: 1-877-369-7625 

JRfm FM93.7 
1401 W. 8th Ave. 
Vancouver, BC V6H 1C9 
Email: cjjr@JRfm.com 
Phone: 604-731-7772 

JACK FM96.9 
2440 Ash St. 
Vancouver, BC V5Z 4J6 
Phone: 604-872-2557 

CHMB AM1320 - Mainstream Broadcasting Corp. 
#100 - 1200 W. 73 Ave. 
Vancouver, BC V6P 6G5 
Email: info@am1320.com 
Phone: 604-263-1320 

CFMI ROCK 
101 Suite 2000 - 700 W. Georgia St. 
Vancouver, BC V7Y 1K9 
Email: info@rock101.com 
Phone: 604-331-2808 

NEWS 1130 
2440 Ash St. 
Vancouver, BC V5Z 4J6 
Email: news1130@news1130.rogers.com 
Phone: 604-873-2599 

CLEAR FM 
2440 Ash St. 
Vancouver, BC V5Z 4J6 
Phone: 604-877-6357 

STAR FM 
#520 - 45715 Hocking Ave. 
Chilliwack, BC V2P 6Z6 
Email: comments@starfm.com 
Phone: 604-795-5711 

Z95.3 
#20 -- 11151 Horseshoe Way 
Richmond, BC V7A 4S5 
Email: info@z95.com 
Phone: 604-241-0953 

NOW TV 
Box 100 
Surrey, BC V3T 4W4 
Email: info@nowtv.ca 
Phone: 604-576-6880 

Global TV 
Roy Gardner, General Manager 
7850 Enterprise St. 
Burnaby, BC V5A 1V7 
Phone: 604-420-2288 

KVOS TV Vancouver 
320 - 1385 W. 8th Ave. 
Vancouver, BC V6H 3V9 
Phone: 604-681-1212 

The Province 
Dennis Skulsky, President & Publisher 
#1 - 200 Granville St. 
Vancouver, BC V6C 3N3 
Email: dskulsky@png.canwest.com 
Phone: 604-605-2555 

Metro Valley Newspaper Group - Black Press 
#309 - 5460 152nd St. 
Surrey, BC V3S 5J9 
Phone: 604-575-5325 

Able Copiers 
12 Orwell St. 
North Vancouver, BC V7J 2G1 
Email: sales@ableoffice.net OR 
online form at http://www.ableoffice.com/contact.jsp 
Phone: 604-904-9858 

Apex Tent Structure 
8492 Kerr St. 
Vancouver, BC V5S 3E7 
Email: rentals@apextents.com OR 
online form at http://www.apextents.com/ap5.htm 
Phone: 604-323-9550 

Applewood Motors 
16299 Fraser Hwy 
Surrey, BC V3S 2X1 
Email: info@applewoodkia.ca 
Phone: 604-635-3010 

B & B Contracting 
17341 56th Ave. 
Surrey, BC V3S 1C2 
Email: info@bbcontracting.com 

Boyd Auto Group - Head Office 
3570 Portage Ave. 
Winnipeg, MB R3K 0Z8 
Phone: 204-895-1244 

Britco Trailers 
9267 194th St. 
Surrey, BC V4N 4G1 
Phone: 604-888-2000 

Budget Car and Truck Rentals 
19833 Fraser Hwy. 
Langley, BC V3A 4E1 
Phone: 604-656-8888 

Carhartt 
5750 Mercury Drive 
Dearborn, MI, 48126 USA 
Online form: 
http://www.carhartt.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/QuestionsCommentsView?langId=-1&storeId=10051&catalogId=10101 
Phone: 1-800-833-3118 

Clover Towing 
#101 - 10185 199B St., 
Langley, BC V1M 3W9 
Phone: 604-513-1900 

CVS Controls - Head Office 
3900 - 101 St. 
Edmonton, AB T6E 0A5 
Email: info@cvs-controls.com 
Phone: 780-437-3055 

Enterprise Paper 
95 Brigantine Dr. 
Coquitlam, BC V3K 6Y9 
Phone: 604-522-6295 or 
toll free: 1-888-522-6295 

VanNet Newspaper Group 
3355 Grandview Hwy. 
Vancouver, BC V5M 1Z5 
Phone: 604-439-2644 

FoxFire Trading Co. Inc. 
20688 Duncan Way 
Langley, BC V3A 7A3 
Phone: 604-514-9252 

Friesen Equipment Ltd. 
20510 Langley By-Pass 
Langley, BC V3A 6K8 
Email: cboelema@friesenequipment.com OR 
online form: http://jddealer.deere.com/friesenequipment/Contact_Us.html 
Phone: 604-530-4644 

JCB-Wajax Industries - Regional Head Office 
16745 - 111 Ave. 
Edmonton, AB T5M 2S4 
Online form: http://www.wajaxwest.com/contact.asp 
Phone: 780-487-6700 

Langley Motor Sports 
19602 Fraser Hwy. 
Langley, BC V3A 4C5 
Phone: 604-533-4701 

Norquip Services 
5992 Arbroath St. 
Burnaby, BC V5J 1P1 
Email: radios@norquip.com 
Phone: 604-431-9777 

Noteable Entertainment Ltd. 
505 - 2071 Kingsway 
Port Coquitlam, BC V3C 6N2 
Email: info@noteable.net 
Phone: 604-468-2911 or 
toll free: 1-888-932-4372 

Pacific Coast Cash 
3720 Imperial St. 
Burnaby, BC V5J 1A1 
Phone: 604-430-3519 

S & R Sawmills 
18887 - 98A Ave. Surrey, 
BC V4N 4E1 
Phone: 604-888-0022 

Sunrise Trailer Sales 
17982 No. 10 Hwy. 
Cloverdale, BC V3S 1C7 
Phone: 604-574-2097 or 
toll free: 1-800-363-9993 

Super Save Group - BC Head Office 
19395 Langley By-Pass 
Surrey, BC V3S 6K1 
Email: contacts@supersave.ca 
Phone: 604-533-4423 or 
toll free: 1-800-665-2800 

Surfwood Supply 
98 Fawcett Rd. 
Coquitlam, BC V3K 6V5 
Phone: 604-540-1232 

West Coast Families 
#224 - 280 Nelson St. 
Vancouver, BC V6B 2E2 
Email: info@westcoastfamilies.com 
Phone: 604-689-1331 

BC Parent 
PO Box 72086 
4479 West 10th Ave. 
Vancouver, BC V6R 4P2 
Email: editor@bcparent.com 
Phone: 604-221-0366 

The CAT Rental Store 
17510 57th Ave. 
Cloverdale, BC V3S 1G7 
Online form: http://www.cat.com/cda/layout?m=37391&x=7 
Phone: 604-576-6627 

Tim Hortons - Regional Office 
26585 Gloucester Way 
Langley, BC V4W 3S8 
Email: customer_service@timhortons.com 
Phone: 604-857-5430 or 
Customer Service toll free: 1-888-601-1616 

Vancouver Autocolour 
5369 Lane St. 
Burnaby, BC V5H 2H4 
Phone: 604-412-9929 

Vincor International -Head Office 
441 Courtneypark Drive East 
Mississauga, ON L5T 2V3 
Phone: 905-564-6900 or 
toll free: 1-800-265-9463 

Vital Link Ice Cream & Event Marketing Inc. 
680 Petrolia Rd. 
Downsview, ON M3J 2V2 
Email: info@vitalinkevents.com 
Phone: 416-663-5525 

West Coast Amusements - Head Office 
6982 - 206th St. 
Langley, BC V2Y 1R2 
Email: info@westcoastamusements.com OR 
online form- http://www.westcoastamusements.com/ctc.htm 
Phone: 604-534-3358 

Willowbrook Motors Ltd. 
19611 Langley Bypass 
Langley, BC V3A 4K8 
Email: Management@willowbrookchrysler.com 
Phone: 604-530-7361 
or toll free: 1-800-824-1475 

CKBD AM600 
1401 W. 8th Ave. 
Vancouver, BC V6H 1C9 
Email: 600am@600am.com 
Phone: 604-731-6111 

EAG Media Network 
186 - 8120 No. 2 Rd. 
Richmond, BC V7C 5J8 
Phone: 604-351-4354 

==============rodeo news article===============

The Vancouver Province Newspaper
Published: Thursday, May 25, 2006 

Crack pipes not welcome at family amusement fairs  

In a democratic society the public should never take lightly 
measures by government or special-interest groups to censor 
or banish a targeted item from a retail store's shelves.

But there are a few givens. 

The display of accessories to enhance the ingestion of illegal drugs 
at an outlet frequented by youth has to be one.

That's why West Coast Amusements -- organizer of the midway attractions 
at the weekend's popular Cloverdale Rodeo -- was right to have 
swiftly facilitated the removal of glass crack pipes and bongs, 
a type of marijuana water pipe, from a vendor's kiosk.

West Coast's assistant manager Wendy Hauser says 
the amusement company has a policy of zero tolerance 
on the sale of illegal-drug paraphernalia at fairs.

But for an unexplained reason, the merchant overrode the regulation and, 
according to a member of the Surrey Coalition of Parents, 
displayed an assortment of glass pipes and bongs 
alongside midway booths sporting stylish cowboy hats, 
leather belts and purses, T-shirts and photo shoots.

After the discovery, West Coast immediately sent a reminder 
to all vendors that the sale of drug paraphernalia 
at the family entertainment rodeo was a no-no.

The vendor argued that he was merely selling pipes, 
not the drugs that go in them. Technically, he's right. 
There is no ban on the sale or purchase of such goods. 
Nor should there be.

Nevertheless, citizens expect community retail businesses to act responsibly.

And that means refraining from peddling goods that tell kids 
it's OK to get stoned on mind-destroying, life-ruining drugs.

©The Vancouver Province 2006
http://www.canada.com/theprovince/news/editorial/story.html?id=5b9750fd-cea1-4d74-b3bb-372ea18f565e
 
===rodeo replies=========================

Treena Wood  
Sent :  Tuesday, May 23, 2006 3:18 PM 
To :   
Subject :  Cloverdale crack pipe story 
  

Hi,
 
We received your email about the crack pipes 
being sold at the Cloverdale Rodeo
and we're interested in talking to someone about it, 
but your email didn't include the contact information 
for the woman who was at the fair. 
Can you please forward that, 
along with someone from the 
Surrey Coalition of Parents 
who is willing to talk to us.
 
Thanking you in advance,

Treena Wood  
Sent :  Tuesday, May 23, 2006 3:18 PM 
To :   
Subject :  Cloverdale crack pipe story 

  - - - - - - - - - - 
 
>From: "Gerry Preddy" 
>To: 
>Subject: RE: Cloverdale Rodeo caught selling Drug Paraphenalia
>Date: Tue, 23 May 2006 07:23:11 -0700
>
>AGAIN, THANK YOU FOR YOUR HEADS UP ON THIS ISSUE,
>
>GERRY PREDDY

 - - - - - - - - - - 

Perhaps these pipes were for medical marijuana patients? 
So you can sell beer and other spirits at public events 
and not offend the 'children'?

Please remove me from your list.

Mary Jane Borden 

  - - - - - - - - - - 

Surrey Coalition of Parents -

To reassure all, it is not the policy of 
Cloverdale Rodeo & Exhibition Association 
to allow products of this kind to be sold onsite 
during the annual Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair.

Upon receipt of the complaint May 20th @ 10:45am, 
we immediately notified West Coast Amusements.  
They responded by physically checking 
every concessionaire on the midway and 
found no drug paraphernalia being displayed for sale.

In addition, the Cloverdale Rodeo & Exhibition Association 
checked it's contracted exhibitors and concessionaires 
on the site and again found no drug paraphernalia.

Throughout the weekend we conducted spot checks 
on both West Coast Amusements and 
Cloverdale Rodeo and Exhibition Association 
exhibitors and concessionaires.

Cloverdale Rodeo & Exhibition Association 
acknowledges the seriousness of this issue 
and we make every effort to ensure 
this activity is not part of our family event.

R.J. (Bob) Matwiv, General Manager
Cloverdale Rodeo & Exhibition Association
 
Ph: 604-576-9461
Fax: 604-576-0216

  - - - - - - - - - - - - 

To whom it may concern;

Surrey RCMP acknowledges receipt of the below noted 
message from the Surrey Coalition of Parents, 

As there is no persons named, 
as the sender of the attached, 
we  are unable to respond directly to an individual.  

Please be advised a police information file 06-62173 
was created and will be handled by myself, 
Staff Sergeant Dave Woods 
Cloverdale / Port Kells District 4, Surrey RCMP.  

I have already been in contact with Mr. Bob Matwiv, 
General Manager of the loverdale Rodeo Association, 
on 23rd of May,  with regards to this matter.  
Mr.Matwiv advised he first became aware of the issues 
raised in your message on the morning of the 20th of May, 
and immediately contacted Mr. Bob Hauser of 
West Coast Amusements.  Mr. Hauser apparently ordered 
the vendor to remove the items in question, immediately.

Although, the comments in your original message 
raise a number of moral issues,
I feel it is only appropriate to point out, 
the Police are unable to take any action in this type of incident 
unless there is some type of residue of a drug in the device.    
In short it is not a criminal offence 
to sell drug paraphenalia.

However, it is my experience from dealing with 
the Rodeo Association (over the past several years), 
the Board of Directors and the General Manager 
take a very strong stance against allowing any vendors 
on the Rodeo grounds from selling drug paraphenalia - 
exactly for the reasons outlined in the original message
from the Surrey Coalition of Parents.  

Frankly, I'm somewhat surprised that this occurred in 2006, 
and it is the first that I've heard of it.  
Should this matter have come to the police attention, 
it would have been immediately brought to the attention 
of Mr. Matwiv, General Manager of the Rodeo Association 
who I am confident would have immediately addressed the matter.  

Copy of this message is being  forwarded to 
Mr. Rocky Rockwell, who is on the Rodeo Board of Directors.  
As I previously indicated, I have already discussed
the matter with Mr. Bob Matwiv over the phone this date 
the 23rd of May, 2006 and my understanding is that 
he will be forwarding some correspondence to your organization 
within a short period of time.  

Should you want to discuss this matter further with me, 
please contact me directly at (604)502-6275.

Please be advised our file on this matter 
will be concluded and noted as "Information only"

regards... dave

Dave Woods, S/Sgt.
N.C.O. In Charge
Cloverdale / Port Kells 
Surrey Detachment
ph. 604-502-6275
e-mail:   dave.woods@rcmp-grc.gc.ca 

   - - - - - - - - - - 

From :  Ron Runkel  
Sent :  Wednesday, May 24, 2006 1:37 AM 
To :   
Subject :  Re: Cloverdale Rodeo caught selling Drug Paraphenalia 
   
To who ever sent this email 

I too went to the rodeo on the weekend and I was 
with my 11yr old daughter and I was totally 
disgusted by the whole thing. It was like a big drunk 
and like you say you could buy anything you wanted. 
I will not be back anytime soon. 
Long gone are the family rodeo days. 
 
-----sample letter sent to sponsor----

Coca Cola is listed as a proud sponsor 
of the Cloverdale Rodeo www.cloverdalerodeo.com 
which is advertised as a family event, 
yet they were openly selling drug pipes in a booth on the midway, 
next to candy apples and cowboy hats.  
there were children everywhere.  
this is unacceptable to our community, 
and especially to me as a parent.  
we will not be attending this event again. 
 
i would think that coca-cola would be more careful 
with their sponsorships, and would not want their name 
to be associated with the sale of drug paraphenalia.



===================================================

here are some emails 
which were sent to the Coalition of Parents.
send your replies to 
lisaebenal_1@hotmail.com

===================================================


 




FEDERAL Politicians Respond:


-----------Federal NDP Party-----------------

"I fully understand the threat that the illegal drug trade poses to our
community, in particular  crystal meth and crack cocaine.  While our party 
has no specific policy dealing with the sale of crack pipe armamentarium in 
corner stores, our platform regarding crystal meth is outlined below.

 - Enact import controls on bulk ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, and limit 
   access to the precursors necessary for legitimate uses, such as cold medications.
   These ingredients should be placed behind counters and purchases of 
   abnormally large quantities should be tracked.
 - Create a new offence for possession of precursors for the purpose of meth
   production.
 - Increase funding to programs for addressing drug addictions in general, 
   and study new and more effective and targeted forms of treatment for meth 
   addiction.

"I know that some jurisdictions in the USA have attempted to limit the sale 
of such common item as glass pipes ('rose pipes')and copper scrub pads, the
reality is that crack cocaine can be 'smoked' utilizing a variety of very
common household items.  The real issue is to prevent the addiction in the
first place.

"I can commit to work with our local businesses to point out the danger of
selling these items to young people.  Our party’s commitment to fund drug
addiction programs will certainly address part of the solution.

"The NDP is also committed to increasing our border security services to 
stop the flow of illegal drugs into Canada.

"This is a very complex issue.  The solutions will require serious and 
careful debate and I can pledge to you that as an NDP MP, 
I will bring a strong voice to that debate.

Penny Priddy
pennypriddy@telus.net
Federal NDP Party




-------------Green Party-------------------

"I find it troubling that you are having so much opposition to a very worthy 
effort.  While the action you seek may fall under both provincial and 
municipal jurisdiction, if elected as MP I would do my utmost to press the 
provincial and municipal governments to listen to the people and get crack 
pipes away from children.  You have my full support in this effort as it 
will most certainly improve our community and keep the children of this 
community one step safer.

"If you have any questions, comments or concerns please do not hesitate to 
contact me.

Best regards,
Roy Whyte
rtwhyte@canadiandemocraticmovement.ca
Green Party Surrey-North




--------Christian Heritage Party-----------

  "The CHP does not have a specific policy on this particular issue. But
you can rest assured that the CHP is Canada's strongest pro-family political
party.  

   "I agree with you the selling of crack pipes should be illegal, and that the
sale of crack pipes is particularly disturbing in stores where children buy
candy and toys. However, as your web link rightly points out this specific
issue is really one of municipal jurisdiction.  

  "The sale of any paraphernalia that is used in the administering of illegal
drugs should be illegal; the problem is that some of it can be used for legal
activities. 

   "I have also sent you a party comparison sheet.

"Thank you,

Kevin Pielak
Christian Heritage Party
www.chp.ca

kpielak@telus.net




----------Federal Liberal Party---------------


Dear Surrey Coalition of Parents:

"Thank you for your enquiry requesting specific information on what I can do concerning this issue.
 
"The reason why there is currently no law restricting the sale of drug pipes in these stores can be
 answered simply by the fact that there has been no legislation put forward to change the current
 situation. The issue has not been on the political agenda, until now.

"What I will do once elected, is explore all possible options to restrict the sale of drug pipes in
 convenience stores. I need to take into account that a proposal for restriction is a sensitive issue due
 to the fact that some buyers use the pipes for legal purposes.  As you know, this issue falls mostly in
 the jurisdiction of municipal law, but I will work primarily to bring the issue to national attention
 and introduce a private members bill to move towards our desired outcome.  

"As a father myself, I know the feeling of wanting to protect my children from harmful products. 
 I sincerely appreciate you bringing this issue to my attention, and I will do everything I can 
 for this cause. I only ask for your public support in the ongoing campaign.


Sincerely, 

Surjit Kooner
Federal Liberal Party
http://www.visionaryrecords.com/crackpipesincandystorescrusade/COPletter.doc



"Dear Surrey Coalition of Parents,
  
"I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate your Coalition 
for this wonderful initiative.  If elected, I will work hard to protect 
our children from exposure to this danger.  Although, it is a Civic issue, 
but I will raise the issue in Ottawa and make sure to restrict the sale of 
crack pipes in stores.  

"Our children are our future and it is our responsibility 
to protect our children.  If we ignore it, we condone and send the message that 
it is OK, but if we take a stand in any ways, we are building a stronger 
community for all of us.  

"Thank you for taking a stand in this issue.

Surjit Kooner

surjitkooner@gmail.com
  Federal Liberal Party - Surrey North




------------Conservative Party of Canada--------------

  "It is just plane wrong to sell crack pipes in stores where children buy
candy and toys. There is nothing else that can be said.

   "I am a counselor and teacher and I have worked with youth and children at
risk. I care about the future of our kids and their well being. I support
raising the age of consent, so 14 year old children can't be sexual prey to
45 year olds. I also support closing the loopholes in child pornography,
which can claim that some have artistic meritt.

   "I also agree that we should work to stop corner stores from selling these
crack pipes.

David

David Matta Campaign
Conservative Party of Canada

davidmatta@gmail.com




------------Progressive Canadian Party---------------

 "My humble apologies for not replying to your questions sooner, 
 it has been a very busy time and I am working my regular job 
 throughout this campaign.

 "First off, I must say that I'm very disheartened by the unfortunate legal 
 situation that allows the glorification of illegal narcotics in our society.

 "We face a nearly unanswerable question: 
 Where does society's needs end and individual rights begin? 

 "I wish I had an easy answer for you, but I'm afraid I don't.
 I believe that we must balance society's needs and the individual's needs 
 and that we should strive to have the best society possible. 
 To that end, the only thing that I see that is feasible is to restrict 
 paraphernalia to behind the counter out of the view and reach of children 
 and I personally hate seeing pipes or other such in the local corner store, 
 I am fervently opposed to illegal narcotics and their cancer-like effects 
 on our society.

 "The only true answer I can give you is that I would be a sympathetic ear 
 and a strong voice opposing anything that would be a plague on our society 
 and our great Dominion.

Thank you for your question.

Nikolas Langlands
info@nikolaslanglands.com

2006 Surrey North candidate
Progressive Canadian Party








--------response from Surrey city council-----------------------

> From: "Higginbotham, Judy" 
> To: "Lisa Ebenal" 
> Subject: RE: Crack Pipes in Candy Stores
> Date: Tue, 22 Nov 2005 15:48:01 -0800
>
> Lisa,  In police committee today we discussed a bylaw that will control and 
> prohibit the selling of drug paraphernalia in corner stores.  It is rampant 
> and also very lucrative.  One store owner commented he would go broke if 
> this happened.  I certainly think we must jump on this as soon as possible 
> to ensure we do not allow corner stores to become "drug'  corner stores.  
> Thank-you to you and your brother for pushing this issue. Sincerely Judy 
> Higginbotham

             - - - -

> From: "Villeneuve, Judy" 
> To: 
> Subject: RE: Crack Pipes in Candy Stores
> Date: Tue, 22 Nov 2005 15:26:21 -0800
>
> Hi Lisa.  I want to assure you that Council will be taking some strong 
> steps bringing forward a bylaw in the near future to outlaw the sale of 
> these pipes in stores.  I am appalled at the incident that you have 
> described, and will do everything I can to make sure this kind of incident 
> does not occur again.  I am so sorry to hear about these abusive acts.  
> Thank you for bringing this situation to my attention.  Cheers, Judy
>









--------------------newspaper article---------------------------

Crack pipe crackdown 
By Kevin Diakiw Staff Reporter
Nov 18 2005  Surrey Leader News

About 15 convenience stores in Surrey have received letters from the city's bylaw department 
asking them to stop selling drug paraphernalia. A business licence amendment will be coming 
before council soon to allow the city to shut down stores that sell the goods. 

The issue made headlines this week, with several residents complaining that pipes used for 
crack cocaine were being sold at corner stores. The existence of crack pipes in corner stores 
became an election issue this week, with Surrey Civic Coalition council candidate 
Stephanie DeRapp demanding action from the city. 

John Sherstone, Surrey's manager of bylaw enforcement said Wednesday his department 
was already in the process of sending out letters when the issue hit the media. 
He said most stores are voluntarily pulling the paraphernalia from the shelves. 

If the planned bylaw amendment is passed, any enterprise selling drug-related items 
could have their business license revoked. 

The proposed amendment is expected to come before council in the coming weeks. 
 

 












--------------response from BC Provincial Government------------

Hi,

We were reading your email today and I wanted to point out that in New Westminster
the city council has dealt with this. If drug paraphernalia sales are seen in an
inappropriate place people can report it to the city and they will deal with its
removal. The person in charge of this is Keith Coffin he works for the City of New
Westminster and his number is 604-521-3711 

Tony Flegel
Constituency Assistant
Chuck Puchmayr MLA
1170 8th Avenue New Westminster BC V3M2R6
Phone (604) 775-2101 Fax (604) 775-2121
Email tony.flegel@leg.bc.ca









------------response from local businessman-----------

> sent to esso
> Subject: Re: ESSO & SHELL Stations Selling Drug Pipes

> Name: GERRY PREDDY
> E-mail: t5742021@telus.net
> Station Name: ESSO Gas Station (Imperial Oil) / Banny's Market 604-590-3596
> Location: 7631 - 128 St. Surrey
> City: surrey
> Province: bc
> Comments: please ask your gas station client to stop selling drug smoking pipes
>           immediately and if not I will never buy gas from esso ever again
> From:    "Gerry Preddy" 
> Date:    Fri, November 18, 2005 7:11 am
> 








------------------reply from city hall-----------------

> From: "Orsetti, Michelle" 
> To: "Lisa Ebenal" 
> Subject: RE: Addresses Please!
> Date: Tue, 22 Nov 2005 16:12:08 -0800
>
> Lisa,
>
> Thanks for the email.  As of today, I've served all the stores below with 
> our written request to not display these pipes, etc. for sale. Also, bylaw 
> officers will be visiting convenience stores in their areas.  The city has 
> received other calls from a member of the Surrey School Board and a private 
> citizen.
>
> If you find any other stores displaying pipes, please email me directly.
>
> Regards,
>
> Michelle Orsetti
>








------------------------reply from political candidate------------------------

Great work on this.  I will contact Esso and thank you for your efforts.
Steve 


Steven Moore
Moore & Associates, Training and Consulting
Phone: 604 961 6753
Email:  sdmoore@shaw.ca
 
Your Surrey School Board Elections are being held on Saturday November 19,
2005.
***GET MORE. VOTE MOORE***
Steven D. MOORE for School Trustee
www.independentcandidate.ca 
 

Hi Steve:

Thanks for your support, this campaign of phone calls from people who care 
seems to be making these stores remove these crack pipe displays from the 
view of our kids.  It's a shame that we have to resort to this.  Why can't 
there be a simple bylaw put in place so we don't have to keep fighting the 
same battle over and over???

I'm so frustrated with the political forces that have allowed the kids in 
our community to be blatantly exposed to the sale of drug pipes with candy 
right next to their schools and homes from so called "business people" in 
their neighbourhood.  From what I'm hearing, this has been going on for 
years.

Do we really have such a lack of regard towards these kids who are 
struggling to make the right choices in an already bad environment?  
Shame on us.

Let's take responsibility and do what we can to help the kids in Surrey 
grow up drug free.

Thanks again Steve,

Lisa


>
> You are welcome Lisa.  So you know I think that all laws and bylaws start 
> as ideas put forward by interested and concerned people.  The fact that you
> have both brought this to light, especially during a campaign will make it
> more likely that a bylaw will be created.
>
> I don't think we should have to expect our government to know all the
> answers I think it is people like both of you who are concerned citizens 
> who bring the issues forward.  I do agree with you though that once it is
> brought up it seems to take too long to get positive action.
>
> Thank you for your efforts in support of our kids.
> Steve
>










-----------------------reply from citizen--------------------------



Hi Lisa
I have been following your efforts and wanted to say keep up the good work.
I think I am on this mailing list because I teach at Simon Fraser in Surrey.
Anyway I wanted to tell you about Nowpublic, which is a website where you
can post articles and petitions etc like this, as well as photos that
accompany them. It is a great way to reach lots of people, locally,
internationally, and lots of media people - may save you some mass mailouts,
because I know it is a lot of organizing. Anyway the site is at
http://www.nowpublic.com
- it is free of course. Good luck with your mission.
Kate Armstrong

***

> From: "jkpotter" 
> To: 
> Subject: our $ store issue
> Date: Fri, 18 Nov 2005 17:21:31 -0800
>
> Just received your email from my neighbour. I then forwarded it to some
> other neighbours. My husband and I don't have any kids, but that's kinda
> beside the point. You're right; it does take a whole village. I work
> shift work, but I'll phone the businesses as soon as I can. Best of luck
> in your efforts. Jo-Ann
>
>
>  jkpotter@telus.net

> From: "jkpotter" 
> To: "'Lisa Ebenal'" 
> Subject: RE: our $ store issue
> Date: Mon, 21 Nov 2005 09:56:01 -0800
>
> Dropped by my Safeway this morning and got a chance to talk to ? someone
> important...he was in shirt-sleeves and a tie...
> He said the media had been to the Dollar Store in that complex this Sat
> past (Nov 19). Apparently, the items in question had been removed.
> Thanks for bringing this matter to our attention; we will continue to be
> vigilant. T, J & H (Potter)
>


Tim and Jo-Ann (and Hara) Potter:

Thank you so much for your support.  The more stores that we identify, the 
more we can turn the tide against this blatant disregard for our community.  
We  are continuing to check our corner stores and dollar stores all over 
surrey and are enlisting the help of other community groups and schools to 
report these stores and get this drug paraphanalia out of the faces of our 
children and teenagers.

If you do happen upon a store selling drug pipes or other drug paraphenalia, 
please email their address to me or report it to John Sherstone at Surrey 
bylaws.  Unfortunately, the majority of these stores refuse to remove the 
pipes when we appeal to their decency but because of people like yourselves 
phoning and telling them that they don't want crack pipes sold in their 
corner markets, they do eventually relent and remove the pipes from view.

It seems that it has fallen upon the shoulders of the good people of the 
community to fight for the kids in the neighbourhood but i'm confident there 
are enough of us out there to win this war.

Thanks so much,

Lisa






-----------------------reply from Councillor-----------------------

> The following information was submitted from the City of Surrey website:
>

> From: "Higginbotham, Judy" 
> To: 
> Subject: RE: Crack Pipes in Candy Stores
> Date: Fri, 18 Nov 2005 10:54:45 -0800
>
> Lisa,  Thank-you for your e-mail.  You and John are amazing and I admire 
> both your energy and your purpose.  I will ask for staff to prepare and 
> bring forward a memo or report on how we can regulate the selling of drug 
> paraphernalia in corner stores to keep drug stuff away from the sight of 
> youth and children.  I hope to do this at the next Council meeting if I can 
> gain support.  Thanks for your work.  You are truly a soldier.  Judy H
> Councillor: Judith Higginbotham


Hi Judy:

Thank you for coming forward and taking action, we can't allow this to go 
any longer.

I saw an article in today's Province Newspaper about how some grade 7 
students at Brittania School in Vancouver read about our stores in Surrey 
selling crack pipes openly beside candy in front of children.  These 12 year 
olds became so outraged about it that they started a letter writing campaign 
to the stores we talked about in the news.  It broke my heart to see that 
children are now having to take up the fight to protect themselves from this 
exposure to drug use because of the apathy of adults and politicians that 
should be protecting them.  Shame on us for allowing it to come to this.

It's time for all of us to step up and help these kids.  We have to provide 
them with a drug free environment if we want them to make the right choices.

Please email me and let me know how council reacts to your recommendations.

Thanks you so much Judy, your help is greatly appreciated by all of us..

Lisa








-------------reply from candidate------------------------
Good Morning:

It is truly appalling that there are merchants in our city who flagrantly
flaunt their social responsibility for the all mighty dollar.

By having an opportunity to sell these pipes within our legal framework it
is nothing but a contribution to the continuum of our drug & crime problems
that plaque our city. 

It is certainly time to have all levels of government step up to the plate
and ban the selling of such paraphernalia in our country but also to ensure
that such items cannot be manufactured or imported into Canada. By not doing
so is a contribution to those that have fallen into the peril of drug
addiction and supporting those who gain financially in selling the drugs.

Our citizens not only demand better of our elected officials but they
deserve to be protected from the ills of drugs & crime.

Now is the time and now is the place for our elected official to fulfill
their obligations..



Respectfully yours, 


Rick Hart
Independent Candidate
for Surrey Council
 
604.574.9375  Home
rick@rickhart.ca 
www.rickhart.ca 


Rick:

Your words are all too true.

How can a city that allows the blatant sale of crack pipes and other drug 
paraphanelia next to candy in our kids' corner stores beside their schools 
and homes by so called "respectable businesses" expect these same children 
to make the right choices about using drugs?

We're creating an environment that conditions children to accept drug use in 
their everyday lives.  Can the politicians not see the urgency of this 
situation?  Will they please step forward and help the parents and children 
create a healthy environment to live and grow in??

How did we ever let the situation get to this point??  Shame on us for not 
protecting the children in our community sooner.  We need to take action and 
make a permanent bylaw to remove this drug paraphenalia from the shelves of 
irresponsible storeowners that profit off of the misery of drug addicts.

Thank you Rick for caring about the children in Surrey.

Lisa







 
 --------------reply-from Surrey ByLaw Dept---------------------------

> From: "Sherstone, John"  
> To: "Lisa Ebenal" 
> CC: 
> Subject: RE: Date: Tue, 15 Nov 2005 11:47:44 -0800
>
> Lisa
> My officers will deal with these additional stores. As you are aware, we 
> have identified 9 stores to date and they have been visited and served 
> personally by my officers.
> We have requested our officers be pro-active in dealing with those stores 
> in their respective Zones throughout the City.
>
> Thank you for the information
>
> John Sherstone
> Manager, Bylaw & Licensing
> Phone: (604) 591-4579
> Fax: (604) 591-4465
>
>
>
>
> Hi John:
>
>
> I am currently networking with other neighbourhood crime and drug 
> prevention
> groups and asking them to check out their local stores and report any drug
> pipes sales to you.  I assured them that you are taking immediate action to
> stop this open sale of drug paraphanalia around our kids.
>
> I will also continue to email you any address of stores that I locate
> selling drug pipes that refuse to remove them in the interest of public
> safety and decency.  I will also be following up to check if these stores
> continue to sell the pipes.
>
> Thanks you for your help and support, it is greatly appreciated.
>
> Lisa







---------------reply-from-concerned citizen-----------------------------

>  I called Esso and explained the situation as I heard it. They promised me
> they would send their policing staff out to investigate the situation. I
> was so livid, I had to apologize to the poor customer service agent on the
> other end of the phone. They will solve this problem in their Esso stores as
> this is a poor example of corporate responsibility.
> 
> I will follow this up, I promise.
> 
> Ken Pelletier
> 
> 

excellent ken.  thanx for you help.
please remember to contact shellOil as well.
we reported that shell to them weeks ago and still have not 
gotten an official reply, let alone an apology.
the regional manager ken bouchard has not returned 
my numerous calls, until i have just given up on him.  
I wanted to know what his duties are policing the region.  
If there is no local quality control, then why not???
unbeliebable apathy, and unacceptable!!

pi**ed off, you bet i am!
i was thrown out of the same shell station as lisa, 
and have not been back since.  

the man behind the counter was very rude and dismissive 
which made me almost as mad as the fact that he was 
selling the pipes in front of children one block away 
from my house and the school where my kids go!

every time i see a shell sign, i get a bad feeling and keep driving.
i made an official complaint to shell customer service 
months ago or so and still have not received the written response i requested.

this thing just keeps getting uglier and bigger as we dig into it.

thank you very much ken.
bob









-----------------reply from newspaper reporters---------------------



Could someone call me regarding this? 
Thank you.
U. Maxwell
-----------------------------------
Ursula Maxwell - Cloverdale Reporter & Traveling Times
Publisher & Managing Editor
17586-56A Ave., Surrey, V3S 1G3
British Columbia, Canada
Bus: 1- 604-575-2405
www.CloverdaleReporter.com
www.siwc.ca







--------------------------------





> 
> Really need to talk to you about the crack pipe story! Please call me
> ASAP.
> 
> Cheers,
> 
> Matthew Ramsey
> Province Reporter
> MRamsey@png.canwest.com

STORES OPENLY SELL CRACK PIPES - Province Newspaper November 16, 2005

Surrey:  Drug paraphernalia displayed beside candies, say parents

A brother and a sister from Surrey have launched a shame campaign aimed at 
forcing corner-store owners to stop displaying crack pipes next to candy 
bars.

Lisa Ebenal and Bob King Sierle have come across at least a dozen stores in 
the city that openly sell the tubular glass pipes, usually on display next 
to candy racks and within easy reach of children.

The Coalition of Parents campaign started when Ebenal saw paraphernalia for 
sale when she went into the store to buy cream and tylenol.

"I was shocked" Ebenal said.  "Nobody buys these (pipes) but people who are 
doing drugs.  It's pretty hard to tell your kids it's wrong when businesses 
are selling it.  It's telling the drug users it's OK and it's telling the 
community it's OK."

Ebenal and King Sierle have made official complaints to the city about nine 
stores and confronted the owners of many more.

Some owners react badly, Ebenal says, threatening the two with violence and 
chasing them out of stores.  Eight have relented and removed the offending 
items after a barrage of phone calls from the three-dozen coalition members.

"If you want to sell pipes, open a head shop", said King Sierle.  "It's like 
porno - you don't put that next to the candy."

The two are pushing for a permanent solution.  The problem is there's only 
so much the city can do, said John Sherstone, Surrey's manager of bylaw and 
licensing.

There is no federal or provincial law prohibiting the sale of pipes, nor are 
there municipal bylaws, said Sherstone.  Vancouver is working on a bylaw 
aimed at regulating the sale of pipes, but so far the city only requires 
that such items not be displayed in store windows.

Sherstone said letters have gone out to nine Surrey stores requesting they 
put the pipes out of reach of children.  Bylaw enforcement officers will 
inspect the stores this week to see who's complying.

"If they don't, we will consider going to council and recommending they be 
prohibited from sale" he said.

It that doesn't work, he said, Surrey can suspend or cancel business 
licences.

In the meantime, said King Sierle, children who head off to the corner store 
to spend their allowance on candy have to rub shoulders with crack addicts.

"I have to do something.  I have to protect my kids", he said.

The coalition is calling on parents to write to politicians demanding action 
and to tell store owners that crack pipes and gummi bears don't mix.

A large glass display case of pipes was on the front counter at "Tom's Food 
Market on 148th Street yesterday.  A sticker on the case noted the dozens of 
pipes inside were for "legitimate use" only.  Crack pipes were for sale for 
$4.39 (an even $5 including tax).

The woman behind the counter pointed out that the slightly smaller glass 
tubes in a box atop the cash register were far cheaper at $1.75 ($2 with 
tax).  The smaller tubes have a peel-back lid on one end and hold a single 
plastic flower.  It takes less than five seconds to convert one into a crack 
pipe.

When owner Saeyl Pok was asked why he was selling the pipes, he said they 
were "cigarette pipes".

He said he planned to return the large case of pipes to the wholesaler.  
Asked about the flower tubes, Pok said he didn't know what they were for.

"People ask, and i just sell it"

mramsey@png.canwest.com






Excellent work!  Thank you, Mr.Ramsey.  
I am glad you took the time to look at some of these pipe and candy displays.
I hope you got the story you wanted. 
I appreciate your interest and involvement in this life-and-death matter.
Let us hope that we will inspire, motivate, and/or shame our political leaders 
into taking the lead in eliminating this threat to our children.
I sincerely hope that more media will put the spotlight on this unacceptable situation.
LISA








---------------------reply from political candidate-------------------

> Thank you for your commitment
>
> I will gladly join with other parents and grandparents in the fight to
> safeguard our children.
>
> M.J.(Jim) Bester P.Eng
> Surrey, BC
> bester@telus.net
 
 Thank you for your support Jim.  I appreciate that you have taken this
 serious matter to heart and have actually gone to visit some of these
 stores yourself.  Now that you have witnessed how ugly and unacceptable
 the situation is, I am positive you will never forget what you have seen.
 It is difficult to imagine Crack Pipes and Candy together, but it is much
 worse to actually see that image with one's own eyes.  As a candidate for
 office in our city hall government, you have set the standard for other
 politicians. I only hope others will follow your lead.  After all, is that
 not what an elected LEADer is supposed to do?  This community NEEDS
 leaders right NOW, so I hope you win your seat on Surrey City Council.
LISA.



Dear Lisa

I phoned the City Bylaw Manager today to find out for myself the legality of
stores open to the public selling aids for an illegal drug. His position is
that it is not illegal under the current bylaw, what the Bylaw Officers are
trying is proactive intimidation (my words not his). His comment was he can
only persuade the owners to put the product out of sight much like they do
with X-rated magazines.

This is not good enough the goods should not be in the store.
All kids need to do is ask to look behind the counter and they can buy. If
the pipes etc. are available you can bet the junk that goes in them is not
too far removed.

This battle is far from over, the business license bylaw must be changed for
the enforcement to work. If this matter is allowed to quiet down before the
bylaw is changed the store owners will soon revert back to their greed.

A stipulation in the City Business Bylaw needs to be made that these type of
products not be sold in a store open to the general public. If not we will
have a constant battle on our hands and we will lose.

I don't for a minute think we are going to solve all the crime associated
with the drug trade, but the public doesn't need it in our face and sold to
our children when we are not looking.

Whether I am elected or not let's make our City Council accountable to the
voice of the Parents of Surrey on this issue.

Thanks, again
Jim Bester



Dear Jim,

Once again, I truly appreciate your support in this matter, 
and I agree with you completely. 
There is no shortage of pipes available out there on the streets, 
so why should the local grocer cater to drug addicts, 
who are responsible for something like 80% of crimes (RCMP estimate). 
Those crimes include armed robbery, burglary, 
and shoplifting at the very same locations that sell these pipes. 
I would call that ironic karma justice, 
if not for the fact that many decent people and innocent businesses 
also suffer from chronic theft syndrome.
 
Obviously, the more we keep this "crack pipes in candy stores" issue alive, 
the more likely we are to arrive at a permanent solution.  
 
I just came from a face-to-face meeting with 
John Sherstone (Manager of Surrey Bylaw Enforcement) 
and Fraser MacRae  (Superintendent Surrey RCMP).  
What I understood from those conversations is that 
"we the people" must be continuously vigilant and 
report offending stores to the Surrey Bylaw Dept.  

In my opinion, a "VOLUNTARY" compliance policy will not last without dozens, 
if not hundreds of people who are willing to confront the merchants on a regular basis. 
Even this "shame the shop owner" approach will not survive the test of time.  

New laws and bylaws (with severe penalties) are the only thing that will have a lasting effect.  
Our law enforcement officials desperately need a clear mandate from their bosses to stop the 
selfish and socially retarded behaviour of certain small businessmen.  What I find most insulting, 
in my attempts to communicate with these retailers, is their dismissive attitudes or their arrogant 
and even hostile posture when defending their "legal right" to sell these pipes.
  
We must NEVER STOP pressuring lawmakers (in all 3 levels of government) to pass legislation 
that will allow police to act definitively.  

And we must do this NOW and FOREVER until the elected ones reward our persistence.  
  
Make them promise.  Then make them deliver.  

Until then, I will continue to confront, harass, and boycott any business that puts profits 
ahead of children's health and safety.  I hope others will join me in this ongoing action.

Something that came up at the drug awareness meeting tonight made me realize that "crack pipes 
in candy stores" is also very harmful to those already addicted, but are trying to recover.  
Can you imagine the temptation they must endure every time they pop into the corner store for a snack.
  
The magnitude of disregard for the welfare of the community by these ignorant merchants is sickening.
And I mean ignorant, because they refuse to acknowledge the damage they are causing.  This is pure denial. 
As council members, candidates, customers and citizens, it is our duty to educate them.

LISA







-------------------------reply from maple ridge task force---------------------------------

For the record, we've been to this rodeo before. In Maple Ridge I walked
around with the mayor and visited shops that were selling drug paraphenalia
as part of our Crystal meth Campaign this Spring. In fact BCTV followed us
around. She asked them to voluntarily remove the materials within 30 days,
or their would be additional 'inspections.' The provincial government and
municipal governments have to work in tandem to crate bylaws that will
clarify that a crack pipe, bong and other drug paraphenalia are not 'object
des arts' nor are used for tobacco smoking.

If the citizens boycott these stores, or protest in front of them, the drug
paraphenalia will be gone. Another method is to specifically change the
business licence regulations to allow the Council to shut down businesses
that sell these things. I'm also amazed that the proprietors of these stores
seem unapologetic about selling drug paraphenalia in their stores, because
if they found that same stuff in their lids sock drawer they would go
ballistic. In fact, the cure may be to buy the stuff and insist that the
owners kids keep it for their personal use.

Fred Armstrong
Meth Task Force
Maple Ridge


Hi Fred:

I can tell from your email that you share our frustration with the powers 
that be.  I think as a community, we can agree that this unacceptable around 
our children and teenagers, so why do we let ourselves be subjected to this 
just so someone behind the counter can make a few dollars off of the 
addicts' misery?

Unfortunately, the apathy we encounter from the customers in these stores 
compounded by the hostility of the storeowners has been very hard for Bob 
and myself to endure.  It's our firm belief that someone has to get angry 
about it, that keeps us motivated.  We refuse to let them win this battle, 
however difficult it gets.

Just knowing that there are other decent people out there like you fighting 
this ongoing battle of protecting our kids gives me great hope that we can 
turn the tide against these unethical retailers.

Thanks so much,

Lisa







-------------------another outraged parent----------------------------

TEMPO GAS & MAC's Convenience Store Selling Marijuana Merchandise

http://chilliwacktimes.com/issues04/063104/news/063104nn6.html


At least one local mom feels pipes and bongs shouldn't be sold near schools, 
even though store owners insist they never sell to children and police say the sales aren't breaking any laws. 

As a mother of two elementary-age children, Kim Bradwell wasn't happy when she found pipes, 
bongs, rolling papers and other items usually associated with drug use in corner stores near schools. 

"I'm not sure why they're selling them. They're only contributing to our drug problem," 
Bradwell said of the stores' owners. 

"They're all in neighbourhoods," she exclaimed, citing Tempo Gas, Mac's Convenience Store 
and Kim's Grocery as businesses selling marijuana merchandise. 

Kim's Grocery owner Steve Kim insists he won't sell anything to children that could be considered drug-related. 

"I have never sold (pipes or bongs) to kids," he insisted.
"I have kids too, so it's something I won't do." 

Other store owners reiterated Kim's feelings, and at least one said he wouldn't sell pipes at all 
if he didn't need the extra revenue to run his business-which costs about $20,000 each month. 

Cpl. Sean Sullivan said pipes-which are usually made of glass, wood, stone or metal-and bongs 
(which use water to cool marijuana smoke) aren't considered drug paraphernalia until they're used 
with an illegal substance. 

"Bongs aren't illegal, however, we are well aware of what they're used for," Sullivan offered.
"Once they use them to smoke crack or marijuana it becomes drug paraphernalia." 

Bradwell has addressed her concerns to store owners and relies on education to keep students informed 
about the devices she doesn't like. 

"If children go into a store for a slurpee and they see these things they're going to have questions. 
What we've done is we've written to schools to let them know what's going on in their neighbourhoods." 

Nothing illegal about pipe sale 
By Darren McDonald 

http://chilliwacktimes.com/issues04/063104/news/063104nn6.html
Send your concerns to MAC's Convenience Stores  ---   BoB Panser  ( macsbcoffice@macs.ca )
send your concerns to TEMPO GAS/Otter Co-op --- Holly Lingel ( petroleum@otter-coop.com ) :
Send your concerns to BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU --- inquiries@bbbvan.org





 - - - 

From: Gerry Preddy 
To: macsbcoffice@macs.ca 
Sent: Tuesday, November 22, 2005 8:06 AM
Subject: re crack pipe sales


Dear consumer manager,

I am writing to inform you that as a high volume fuel purchaser I will no longer be
using any of your facilities until I see no more drug paraphnalia sold by them

Gerry Preddy 
president 
Preddy integrity Auto Parts Ltd







------------------------------------

http://www.thenownewspaper.com/issues05/112205/news/112205nn1.html
Carolyn Cooke 

While it's not against the law for corner stores to sell drug paraphernalia, 
Bob King Stierle is waging war against retailers. 

The 40-year Whalley resident first became aware of the trend about three months ago 
when his sister pointed it out to him. 

He went to see for himself and discovered many convenience stores in the area 
have displays of bongs, crack pipes and other drug paraphernalia for sale, 
usually right beside the penny candy popular with kids. 

"Without realizing it, they've shown up everywhere," he said. 
"It's not about the drugs," said King Stierle, 
a punk rocker and band roadie who is no Pollyanna about the drug scene or its effects. 

While it is legal to sell and possess new bongs, pipes or similar things - usually termed novelty items - 
they can be seized by police for evidence if they have drug residue on them. 

The issue, said King Stierle, is really a social and moral one. 

"I do not want my children to think drugs are OK because the corner store is selling pipes," 
he said, noting that such displays only normalize the reality of drug use. 
He said people can already go to head shops for paraphernalia. 

"I'd rather my children know I put up a fight on their behalf rather than say, 
'There's nothing I can do about it.'" 

On Monday, King Stierle visited three stores with paraphernalia displays. 

At the first, Master Foods, just off 96th Avenue and 128th Street, 
he told the owner he thinks it's wrong for stores to have drug paraphernalia next to candy displays, 
pointing to the row of bulk candies at the front of a display case 
of brightly-coloured bongs and an assortment of crack pipes. 

The owner protested that it's not illegal, to which King Stierle said, 
"Neither is hard core porn." 
He reiterated his plea to remove the drug paraphernalia 
because it's the "socially responsible thing to do." 
The owner said his English was too poor to understand. 
King Stierle tried again, pointing at the penny candy 
and bongs. The owner finally said he would talk to his lawyer about it, 
but wouldn't commit to removing the display. 

In such cases, King Stierle said, he has about 30 local residents 
who call store owners to tell them they too believe it is 
"socially irresponsible and unacceptable" to have 
drug paraphernalia for sale next to candies meant 
for youngsters. One of the local churches has a large 
Korean-speaking congregation, and has offered to translate 
for owners who plead a language barrier. 

At the second location, Food Town, at 95th Avenue and 132nd Street, 
the manager wasn't on site, but the paraphernalia display was still 
at the front counter near fresh cut flowers. 
King Stierle gave his spiel to a female employee who became upset 
and yelled that she can't do anything about it. 

He promised to return to speak with the owner yet again. 

The third stop of King Stierle's tour was Roebuck Grocery at 13192 92nd Ave. 
Here King Stierle was delighted to find the store no longer selling drug paraphernalia. 
He shook the clerk's hand and thanked her in Korean. 

King Stierle said this was the fifth of seven stores 
to remove the displays at his and his group's request. 



Roebuck's Grocery.           
13192-92 Ave,    Surrey.    
604-581-7397   604-789-1693

This store is located right across the street from a school 
and two doors down from a church.  The elderly lady 
behind the counter was friendly and conversant. 
we brought up the subject of the 
large glass crack pipe display she had 
on the counter beside the cash register, 
surrounded by brightly coloured kid's candies. 
 
She asked if we wanted to buy one, 
we explained that we did not like 
Roebuck Grocery selling crack pipe's next to penny candy 
across the street from a school 
with a park and a playground.  

She started to say she did not know what the pipes were, 
although that was not the case only moments earlier, 
when she thought we wanted to buy one from her. 
so we informed her that they were pipes 
for smoking meth and crack cocaine, 
and since she now knew what they were, 
would she please stop selling them where children shop.

She then became rude and dismissive with us.  
Telling us to leave.  
When I continued to press the conversation, 
she claimed she was Korean 
and could not speak English.  
Right then a young boy (about 10 years old) 
came into the store to buy some candy.  
He actually made his selection of sweets 
from the very pile lying next to the pipe display.  
I asked him if his parents knew that this store was openly selling drug pipes.  
He said that they didn't shop at this store.  
I asked him if he thought it was OK for the store 
to be selling drug pipes and candy together.  
His response was, "Big deal, they're all selling them."  

Meanwhile, the woman was speaking English 
with the boy while she made the sale.  
Then an adult customer entered the store. 
I began to have a conversation with him 
about the drug pipe display in front of him.  
He said he did not like it, 
but felt that there was nothing he could do about it.  
I said, "Why shop here then?"  
He left the store without buying anything.  

The woman got upset, and told me to 
stop talking to her customers.  
I replied, "I thought you couldn't speak english?" 
She said that the store did not belong to her, 
she only worked there, 
there was nothing she could do, 
and that I should talk to the owner.  
She then gave me a telephone number. 
 
I called the telephone number and spoke with a man 
who identified himself as the owner, 
he told me the woman behind the till was his mother.  
After a long argument, it felt like at least 30 minutes, 
he finally said it wasn't worth the hassle, 
and agreed to remove the pipes.  

I left the store and returned a few days later 
with the NOW newspaper reporters to find that 
the pipes had indeed been removed from plain sight.  

Bob




------------------------------------

Local business only after profit 

The Editor, 
http://www.thenownewspaper.com/issues05/113105/opinion/113105le1.html

Re: "Rocker dogs pipe sellers," the Now, Nov. 9. 

Congratulations to Mr. King Stierle for taking up a very worthy campaign. 
In my area, Scott Hill Convenience store highlights the drug paraphernalia with a flashing strobe type light! 

When I asked the owner why he sold the drug paraphernalia, and asked him if a neighbourhood of drug pushers 
and addicts was what he wanted his baby girl to grow up in (she was in the mother's arms when I spoke to the 
father/owner) his reply was curt: they are not illegal and everyone is selling it. As if that makes it right. 
That conversation took place more than two years ago and it was the last time my children, their friends, 
and many neighbours and myself shopped at this store. 

I'd like to see these items banned from being sold entirely because not only should they not be available 
next to candy, drug paraphernalia should not be available at all. It is a social and moral issue; and while 
these storeowners should remove these "novelty" items from their stores, obviously their profits count more 
than their community. 

I hope more people like Mr. King Stierle decide to tell these shop owners that a healthy and 
safe community comes first! 

Lori Douglas 
Surrey 







-------------------------------------


No point in forbidding drugs if pipes, bongs are OK 

The Editor, 
http://www.thenownewspaper.com/issues05/113105/opinion/113105le1.html

Re: "Rocker dogs pipe sellers," the Now, Nov. 9. 

I applaud Bob King Stierle's actions! It's not too often someone stands for what he believes in, 
and takes action. Bravo! 

What is the point of making laws forbidding the selling of hard drugs, soft drugs, and whatever else 
destroys our children's brains, and then turning a blind eye toward stores selling all the merchandise 
you want to use the drug? Right beside the penny candy? Can someone explain? 

I, for one, will do whatever I can to support Mr. King Stierle's actions. Apparently, the people we elect 
won't do anything while this absurd behaviour goes on. I'm sick and tired of the weak-kneed laws and 
lack of action from the lawmakers and judicial system we have in place. 

The only thing that will make this a more liveable region is for the general public to take action. 
Bob, if you are reading this, sign me up. 

K. Pelletier 
North Delta 






-----------------------------
Drugs: Pipe-fighter applauded 

Dear Editor, 

Bob King Stierle is to be commended for his efforts to convince corner stores 
to discontinue the sale of drug paraphernalia. 

What was once something found only in head shops in Gastown now appears to be 
standard stock in many corner stores, most of them within blocks of schools. 

We strive to keep our kids educated about the perils of drug use, so it's 
counter-productive to the goals of a community to have the local corner store 
selling such items, particularly with the alarming trend of crystal meth and crack. 

Residents need to remember they can make a difference. Let store owners know that 
you don't appreciate the sale of crack pipes, scales, and bongs 
under the guise of tobacco products. 

Tell them you don't want kids buying candy sold next to crack pipes. 
Let them know you'd rather give your business to the local Mac's, 7-11, 
or other convenience stores that don't stoop to those levels. 

Social responsibility is everyone's business. 

The situation certainly isn't limited to corner stores in Surrey. Interestingly enough, 
when the Parents Advisory Council of my son's Langley school sent a letter and attempted 
to discuss the matter with the proprietor of a nearby store, he too, suddenly found 
his English skills too poor to understand the request. 

Michele Lavery, Cloverdale 

published on 11/25/2005 
http://www.langleyadvance.com/issues05/114205/opinion/114205le7.html











         *** related news articles   ***  


Drug abuse: Glass pipes worry parents 

A local Parent Advisory Council has been fighting for a year to get glass tubes 
- often used by crack addicts - off shelves of a store near their children's school. 

by Matthew Claxton 

Parents at Willoughby Elementary want something done about a nearby corner store 
that sells drug paraphernalia, including items often used as crack pipes. 

The Willoughby Market sells four-inch glass tubes from a display near the cash register. 

The tubes, known as "rose tubes," are stoppered at one end with a small piece of cork 
and have a small fake rose inside. 

Although advertised as gift items, they are widely used by crack addicts who throw away 
everything but the glass and use a small piece of scrubbing pad as a filter for the crack. 

When a Langley Advance reporter asked specifically for a glass pipe at the store on Tuesday, 
the clerk handed him a rose tube immediately. 

The situation at the Willoughby Market came to light last year, when Michele Lavery 
was on the Willoughby Elementary PAC executive. 

The parents sent the store a letter asking the owner to stop selling the rose tubes. 

"And the letter had no effect on them," she said. 
"We never got any response from the store, nothing." 

Current PAC president Cyanna Mufford said eventually the manager simply stopped talking to them. 

"This is a huge problem for our kids," she said. 

The PAC met Thursday, and will be sending a letter to the school board and the Township 
asking them to do something to get drug paraphernalia off the shelves. 

"If you send your child into a corner store to get milk or bread, 
they'll have to pay for it next to drug paraphernalia," she said. 

She noted that she has seen the glass tubes for sale at a tobacco store in Langley City as well, 
but children are much less likely to go into that type of store. 

Willoughby Market owner Don Chang said he cannot go out the door, following his customers, 
to see what they are using his products for. 

The Willoughby Market also sells tobacco pipes, 
but Chang can't control what people put in the pipes, he said. 

"We are not the police," Chang said. 

After the parents complained about the rose tubes the first time, 
he put them behind the counter where they could not be seen, he said. 

But eight or nine people came in complaining and asking where they were. 

He has also talked to a lawyer, who wrote a notice that has been posted 
along the top of the store counter in several places. 

It reads: "All of our products are intended for legitimate legal use." 

If people really want to stop the sale of rose tube products, 
the government should ban them, Chang said, and he will stop selling them. 

"I've lived here 27 years. I don't want to break the law," he said. 

While the issue has flared up recently in Surrey, 
it has rarely come to the attention of the Langley RCMP. 

"We haven't noticed it being a huge problem in Langley," said Cpl. Diane Blain. 
"We haven't had any complaints, anyway." 

The RCMP can seldom get involved in any case, because 
it isn't illegal in Canada to sell drug paraphernalia. 

Blain compared the practice to the sale of hydroponic growing equipment. 
Much of what is sold is used by marijuana growers, but because the items 
have a legitimate use, there is no cause to shut down the stores that sell them. 

Langley District PAC president Susan Semonick said the issue was discussed 
at Wednesday's DPAC meeting. The group will ask parents for their views, 
and may ask the school board to act on the behalf of all PACs in December. 

Langley Township Mayor Kurt Alberts was surprised to hear that 
drug paraphernalia is being sold in ordinary corner stores in Langley. 

"I've never noticed it myself, but then I haven't been looking," he said. 

"I would hope that we'd get cooperation from the store owner," the mayor added. 

He isn't sure whether the Township can legally use bylaws to prohibit or limit 
the sale of such items, but said if it comes up as an issue before Township Council, 
he would certainly want to consult with the RCMP. 

Unless Langley City and the Township can put bylaws in place to control or 
stop the sale of paraphernalia, there is little the police can do. 

The most they could do, if there were a bylaw, would be to ticket store owners. 
Local governments might be able to deny business licenses to violators of such bylaws. 

Several jurisdictions in the United States, including some Florida cities, 
have cracked down on the sale of rose tubes over the past few years. 

In California, the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control specifically mentions rose tubes 
as an item of drug paraphernalia in its licensing regulations. 
Liquor stores can lose their licenses for carrying the items. 

published on 11/25/2005 
http://www.langleyadvance.com/issues05/114205/news/114205nn1.html












---------------------------------------------


Long calls for crackdown on glass pipes 

Drug paraphernalia sales might be controlled, if not banned, through municipal bylaws. 

by Matthew Claxton 

Children shouldn't be faced with crack pipes and other drug paraphernalia when they 
walk into Langley convenience stores, a Township councillor says. 

At Monday night's council meeting, Bob Long called for staff to look into what 
can be done to regulate the sale and display of glass pipes. 

Council will vote on his motion at the Jan. 23 meeting. 

Long said his concern was sparked when he saw a display of glass crack pipes 
and drug paraphernalia on display at a dollar store in Aldergrove recently. 

Other stores around Langley and Surrey have come under fire recently 
from parents and school groups for similar practices. 

A Willoughby corner store has upset Willoughby Elementary parents for more than a year. 
The owner has refused to stop selling paraphernalia, and also sells "rose tubes" 
which are often used by crack smokers as a cheap alternative to actual pipes 
[Glass tubes worry parents, Nov. 25, Langley Advance]. 

Long said the Township's bylaws department isn't sure it's possible to ban the 
sale of such items altogether. It may be outside of the jurisdiction of 
municipalities, and possibly unconstitutional. 

He said it may be possible to limit where stores can display such items. 
There are already regulations that keep pornography from being displayed in easy reach of children. 

The fact that the paraphernalia is often at children's eye-level is one of Long's concerns: 
"I don't think they should be right there in sight." 

Long has talked to one dollar store owner about his paraphernalia displays, 
with no results. He hopes a bylaw officer might have more luck. 

Other measures outside of regulation might help too, he said, noting, 
"Ultimately, boycotting these stores works very well." 

published on 01/13/2006 
http://www.langleyadvance.com/issues06/012206/news/012206nn2.html










---------------------------------------------

Take business to shops that care 

Dear Editor, 

I couldn't help but recognize that concerned parents were getting nowhere 
with local store owners who carry sell rose tubes which subsequently become crack pipes 
[Glass pipes worry parents, Nov. 25, Langley Advance]. 

Your article said that letters and even flat-out requests by those 
concerned were being ignored by retailers. 

I would like to offer a solution to those worried about those stores within our communities: 
if everyone were to stop supporting those markets, it would be awfully difficult 
for the owners to ignore their bottom line. 

I am the owner/operator of a convenience store in the Langley area, and offer an invitation 
to those concerned to shop in an environment where crack pipes are not welcome. 
There are many of us in the Langley area, and I'm sure that all of us would welcome your business. 

Phil Davidson, Surrey 










---------------------------------------------

 Take bongs off shelves 

Dear Editor, 

Come and get your bongs and crack pipes on special here! 
I can't believe that neighbourhood corner stores in Langley 
are actively promoting such drug paraphernalia in special displays 
[Store no place for bongs, April 19 Letters to the Editor, Langley Advance News]. 

It is not illegal to sell drug paraphernalia in Langley Township. 
There is such a store in Walnut Grove, a short walking distance from the high school. 

It is illegal to sell drugs but it is not illegal to sell the equipment to use drugs. 
That's as if it is illegal to shoot people, but it's not illegal to set up 
special displays of handguns and bullets in stores. 

We can look the other way and say, 
"Hey, people who want to use drugs will find any way to do it, so why worry about it?" 

That sends the wrong message, particularly to young people. 
It says that we, as a society, are only willing to go part way in combating the problem. 

Drugs destroy lives. It is an issue that necessitates action on several fronts - 
education, law-making, publicity, etc. - and there is some action going on in these areas. 

Here's another area where we can make a difference: 
outlaw the sale and promotion of drug paraphernalia. 

J. Kuwabara 


----------------------------------------------












Meth Watch Task Force looking at ways to limit drug related sales 

By Jennifer Saltman - Staff Reporter 
http://www.thenownews.com/issues05/114205/news/114205nn7.html

Even before the spectre of crack pipes in Surrey corner stores hit the media last week, 
local community police were thinking about ways to limit the sale of drug-related items in local stores. 

Jodie McNeice, manager of the Port Coquitlam community police stations, said the Meth Watch Task Force 
has discussed having volunteers go door-to-door to local businesses to educate as part of the Meth Watch program. 

"As a followup, we were thinking of sending volunteers out to where we think they're selling that kind of thing," 
McNeice said. "If there's a few, we can have discussions about it as opposed to drafting a bylaw." 

She said it's about being a responsible member of the community. 

The NOW randomly visited five corner and dollar stores in Port Coquitlam and didn't see any obvious signs 
of crack pipe sales. 

McNeice said that although she's not sure if it's a big issue, it doesn't mean the pipes aren't being sold. 

"We've had no complaints from the public, but we're sure they're out there," she said. 
"Now that it's being talked about, we might as well take a look and see if we have an issue here. 

"It's certainly been something we've discussed with protective services." 

The City of Port Coquitlam protective services committee has instructed staff to prepare a bylaw 
that will aim at limiting the sale of products used to make meth and to require participation 
in the current Meth Watch program by relevant businesses. 

The committee has not yet discussed the restriction of the sale of drug paraphernalia. 

"As far as sale of products, with pipes, there's nothing in the works at the moment," McNeice said. 

The Meth Task Force will be formalizing recommendations, which would include the limiting of the 
sale of such products if it's felt to be worthy of further consideration. 

"The volunteers enjoy that kind of getting out in the community," McNeice said. 
"It's just good for us to be out in the community." 

Griff Simmonds, manager of Coquitlam community police stations, said he hasn't heard of any 
crack pipes in Coquitlam corner stores either, and can't remember seeing them when he has visited stores. 

But, he said, "It wouldn't surprise me." 

Coquitlam is in the midst of setting up its own Meth Watch program, and Simmonds said educating store owners 
and clerks about what they are selling is part of the program. 

He said that if talking specifically about drug paraphernalia is not part of the program, 
it's something to look at adding. 

"Some owners honestly don't know what they're selling," he said. 

A similar tactic of going around to stores and educating as part of a Meth Watch program was used 
in Maple Ridge this spring. 

Members of the city's Meth Task Force walked around with the mayor and visited shops that were selling 
drug paraphernalia as part of a crystal meth campaign. 

Stores were asked to voluntarily remove the materials within 30 days, 
or there would be additional "inspections." 

"If the citizens boycott these stores, or protest in front of them, the drug paraphernalia will be gone," 
said Fred Armstrong, a Meth Task Force member, in an e-mail. "Another method is to specifically 
change the business licence regulations to allow the council to shut down businesses that sell these things." 

published on 11/25/2005 
http://www.thenownews.com/issues05/114205/news/114205nn7.html
















-------------------------------------------------


EVEN DRUG USERS know this is wrong.

Crack pipes for sale?
Former addict says city should ban stores from selling drug paraphernalia

Joe Tillman spent a morning recently buying crack pipes at several South Bend stores.

As soon as he got out of the stores, Tillman handed the small glass tubes with flowers in them to 
The Tribune reporter and photographer who were with him.

If you remove the flower and the plastic ends plugging the tube, 
you've got yourself a crack pipe, or "stem" as he calls them.

Tillman's mission was somewhat successful: He convinced one store to stop selling them.

Tillman, 48, didn't want to keep the pipes for two reasons: A recovering addict, 
he doesn't use pipes any more. Secondly, he didn't want to be arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia.

Anyone, including children, can buy the crack pipes because they are sold as floral novelty items, he said. 
They are usually sold on the counter beside cigars and lighters.

But as a black man with missing teeth, Tillman knew if a police officer saw him with one, he'd be arrested, 
jailed, and charged with possession of drug paraphernalia.

Discrimination or profiling because of his appearance isn't as disturbing to him as the fact that 
merchants are allowed to sell these pipes, but people aren't allowed to possess them.

"There is no legitimate use for a glass stem," Tillman said. 
He understands the legal argument of "dual purpose," meaning, for example, 
that a straw can be used for drinking or to snort cocaine.

The floral tubes can be sold as novelty items or to smoke dope just as spoons can be used for eating 
or to cook cocaine.

Tillman has been drug-free since May 21, 2001, and is now on a mission to rid the world, 
or at least his community, of illegal drug use. At a public meeting earlier this month that the 
county prosecutor attended, Tillman stood and held up a crack pipe.

He challenged Prosecutor Michael Dvorak to "do something" about the local stores that sell them.
Tillman then gave Dvorak a list of all the stores in the area that sell them.

To prove his point, Tillman went to the Always Open gas station on North Lafayette Street and 
picked up a glass ink pen that can be dismantled and used as a crack pipe.

When Tillman showed this to the store owner, he removed the pens from the shelf. 
The store owner said he was unaware that the pens could be used as crack pipes 
and said he wouldn't sell them anymore.

Dvorak said this week he has assigned the issue of drug paraphernalia being sold 
by local merchants to his chief investigator. He also has a deputy doing research 
on the legal aspects of holding stores responsible.

"I understand drug addicts are not politically correct," Tillman said. 
"But the availability of crack pipes is 'a weapon of mass destruction.' 
And it's playing out on our streets right now," he said.

Tillman said 53,000 people die every year in this country as a result of drug abuse. 
"How many World Trade Centers is that?" Tillman asked. 
"And there ain't no people jumping out of planes over Colombia," to stop cocaine growers, he said.

As he walked from store to store, Tillman spotted Lynn Coleman walking on the street. 
Coleman is an assistant to the mayor and a retired police officer.

Tillman immediately approached Coleman and drilled him on how the city can allow merchants to sell crack pipes.

Coleman, who recognized Tillman, said the pipes were made as novelty items. 
"The person that made it is going to say it was made to hold a little flower," Coleman said.

"But everyone knows it's a crack pipe," Tillman said in a louder voice. He rattled on. 
"I don't know any man in America who would give his wife a dozen stems. 
Could I put a rose in a .44 magnum and say it's a vase?"

"No," Coleman said, because it's not the same thing. 
"The only thing we can do is to make people aware of the pipes and the real dangers."

The defense among store owners was common: They cannot control what buyers do with their purchases. 
One man said if he banned everything that could be dangerous, he couldn't sell cigarette lighters and gasoline.

At the Phillips 66 on Lincoln Way West, flowers in glass tubes are sold for $3 right next to "blunt mints." 
The mints, Tillman said, are probably to mask the smell of marijuana.

At Ralph's News Stand and General Store on West Monroe Street, Tillman went in and asked the cashier, 
"Got any pipes?" The cashier then sold him a glass tube with a flower in it for $1.
The plastic stem of the artificial flower was missing, and there was dust inside the tube. 
Tillman said if a police officer saw it, he would assume it was used for cocaine.

Coleman said he wished everyone had the same passion against drugs as Tillman, but realistically, 
"That ain't going to happen," Coleman said.

Tillman has a different perspective, Coleman said.

"He's lived it, and when you've lived it, you have a different perspective."

Staff writer Linda Mullen:

lmullen@sbtinfo.com

(574) 235-6333










----------urban warrior-------

(COP:  Is this the future of Surrey's streets? )

THE CORNER store at 55th Street and Osage Ave. is crammed with bread, tuna fish, laundry soap and trash bags. 
The quiet, elderly man who owns it sits behind the counter at the cash register, 
surrounded by various choices of gum and candy.

He's been in business for years. And he has no bulletproof glass.

Yet one block away, in this same neighborhood, 
a "stop-n-go" deli that sells cheap beer, 
crack pipes and rolling papers is fortified 
with the scratched and grimy plexiglass 
that separates merchant from customer. 
The woman who works there passes goods through the barricade, 
reaching her arm around the barrier only to accept cash.

The first store feels worn but safe, 
your typical corner grocery.

The other? Most law-abiding people wouldn't walk in there on a bet.

Same street, same neighborhood. 
Only difference is what's for sale - and the plexiglass.

I've been in a lot of stop-n-gos lately, 
trying to get something done about the way these stores 
often turn into little filling stations for the illegal drug trade.

And I've realized something: 
The ugly, plexiglass bullet barrier is one sure way 
to spook good customers, and import trouble.

"It's as if the store knows its products will draw criminal customers," said West Philly State Rep. 
Ron Waters, who has held hearings on the subject of stop-n-gos. 
"So in effect, they know the store is going to have a negative effect on the community."

I don't want anyone to be unsafe.

But why do we allow stores that expect a criminal clientele - and, 
in response, have literally walled themselves off from the neighborhood?

To be fair, stop-n-go owners are more vulnerable to robbery and theft 
than grocery store owners are.

"They're dealing in cash, and they have cigarettes and alcohol, which are highly desirable and 
easy to turn around on the street," said Ray Swerdlow, owner of Ray Swerdlow's Six Pack Store and 
spokesman for the Philadelphia Licensed Beverage Association. 
"These people feel as if it's the only way they can survive."

And I understand why merchants who operate in high-crime neighborhoods would feel the need for protection.

"If you don't have plexiglass around your cash register and counter, your life is not safe," 
said Peggy Hoch, president of the Frankford Civic Association. 
"In today's day and age? If they didn't have this plexiglass, these kids would go over that counter so fast. 
They would reach over and take that register in a heartbeat."

Still.

No merchant has a right to help make neighborhoods feel unsafe.

And that's exactly what happens when store owners sell drug paraphernalia and then close themselves off 
behind bullet-proof glass.

"It reminds me of the 1980s when the Jamaican drug dealers infiltrated the black communities and 
sold crack cocaine through small mailbox-like slots through doors in fortified abandoned houses," 
said West Philly resident Kevin Henryhand.

"If you're selling loose cigarettes, blunts, and beer, then maybe you feel you do need the protection," 
said City Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell. "But think about it. 
Shouldn't that tell you something about the kind of business that you're running?"

Physical barriers also contribute to community barriers, she said.

"Some people don't like the lack of contact with the store owner, they feel as if they're being 
looked down on, or snubbed," Blackwell said.

There are other intangibles, too.

Remember back in 1994, when then-Mayor Ed Rendell was working so hard to revitalize Philadelphia's downtown? 
One of the first things they did was outlaw the opaque metal security gates that gave Center City its shuttered, 
unsafe feeling at night.

The gates weren't inviting, said Paul Levy, executive director of the Center City District. 
A city that looked more inviting to visitors would actually get more foot traffic, he argued. 
The more people around, the safer - and more prosperous - the area would become.

You know what?

He was right.

And I think the same principle might apply in Philly's more troubled neighborhoods.

While I have nothing but admiration for anyone who opens a reputable store in a drug-infested neighborhood, 
I say it's sheer hypocrisy to market goods that are specifically targeted to criminals, 
and then complain when criminals come around.

So if you're selling milk, and you feel you need the protection, I'll shut up about the plexiglass.

But if you're selling crack pipes and rolling paper?

I say ditch the protection. Try living with the consequences of selling your particular product.

Because if it's not safe enough for you, then it's not safe enough for your neighbors, either.

Posted on Wed, Nov. 10, 2004 
  
  - - - -










Urban Warrior | It's time someone put a stop to this!

No one taking responsibility for nuisance stores


18TH and Cumberland streets in North Philadelphia is ravaged by drugs. 
Litter, abandoned buildings and unsteady addicts are part of the daily landscape, 
and cops say they know the corner well.

Residents say it's no coincidence that 12 stop-n-go stores, which sell crack pipes and rolling papers 
in addition to cheap beer, are located within a roughly eight-block radius of here.

Now, just as these residents wonder how much more the neighborhood can take, someone is planning 
to take over an abandoned bar and open yet another of the take-out beer joints neighbors say 
serve as magnets for the illegal drug trade.

And they are outraged.

Picture a doctor infecting his patient with cancer. That's how they feel.

"We worked so hard to shut down that bar, and since then, the crime and the nuisance on that corner 
has dwindled somewhat," said the Rev. Verl Sewell, pastor of the Greater Love Fellowship Ministries. 
"Now they want to open up another one of these beer stores? Don't they know these places are a haven 
for people hanging out and dealing drugs?

"Look around, it's all over the city," Sewell continued. 
"You'd have to have your head in the sand not to see it. 
I'll bet you more killings take place in front of these stores than they do anywhere else."

Carol Burnett, block captain of the 2400 block of N. 18th Street, said she can't understand how 
state and city government could give their blessings to the proposed new store.

"What I want to know is, how do these stores keep getting licenses?" she said. "I just don't get it."

They have a point.

The "stop-n-go" delis that litter many city neighborhoods often break the rules - 
with little or no consequence. They frequently don't offer public access to a restroom, 
which is required by city code, and almost none offer any place to sit, as is required by state law.

Unless they count the candy they're selling to local kids, I can't believe they earn the 
bulk of their profit from food, which state law also requires.

And believe me, the characters that typically loiter inside and out aren't there to buy bread.

City leaders know it.

"These stop-n-gos are almost magnets for crime," said John Lisko, legislative aide to 
City Councilman Rick Mariano, who is considering legislation to restrict sales at these stores. 
"They breed problems."

But I dare you to try holding anyone accountable. Because while numerous government agencies have 
some degree of control over these stores, none claims real responsibility.

At least two state agencies say it's not their fault.

First, the Liquor Control Board says it's not granting new licenses to stop-n-gos in Philadelphia. 
Because of recent changes in the law, which grants liquor licenses based on how many people live in the city, 
Philadelphia already has three times as many licenses as it should.

The new stores that are opening are operating under licenses that already exist and are transferred 
to new establishments, said Molly McGowan, spokeswoman for the state Liquor Control Board.

And the LCB says it isn't responsible for making sure those licensees follow the rules. 
McGowan says concerned citizens like Sewell and Burnett should talk to the state police.

"You'd really have to ask the them, since they are in charge of enforcement," McGowan said. 
"I think probably the enforcement arm is understaffed, and doesn't have the time or staff 
to dedicate to Philadelphia area."

But state police say they're doing their job. There are about 25 troopers in charge of all the 
liquor licenses in Philadelphia, Delaware and Chester counties, and they issue some 75 citations a month - 
most of those in Philly.

But those citations don't amount to much, admitted Sgt. John Comerer, district office commander of 
the Liquor Control Enforcement Bureau, because state troopers don't have authority to close down a store.

Only the Liquor Control Board - remember them? - can do that.

"It's got to be frustrating, if you live next to a nuisance bar, or one of these stop-n-gos, 
and no matter how many times you complain, it never seems to be taken care of," Comerer said. 
"But I could show you places where I have multiple violation letters that were sent out, 
and these places are still operating."

Comerer said one nuisance bar, the USA Deli on North Broad Street, has been cited 12 times - 
mostly for serving minors.

"They're under suspension at this time, but they still have their license," Comerer said. 
"We just keep piling it on their record, and hoping that they don't get their license renewed.

"So my people are doing their job. If we find violations, they're going to be cited for it, 
it's that simple. But I can't answer for what happens after that."

So the Liquor Control Board blames the state cops, and the state cops blame the LCB. 
Clearly, there's a problem.

But, unbelievably, the mess goes even deeper than that.

For some reason I can't figure, the state makes no distinction between these take-out beer joints 
and the booming restaurant business that's helping to fuel a Center City renaissance.

Their liquor licenses don't note the difference between the grimy little deli where I recently 
paid $2 for two crack pipes and an elegant French restaurant like Le Bec Fin.

As a result, the state can't pass rules that crack down on one without running the risk of hurting the other. 
Smart, huh?

Second, judging from its past record, it does seem that hell would have to freeze over before this 
Liquor Control Board would revoke a liquor license.

The last time state officials heard complaints about problem bars was in 2002.

Twenty-three establishments were hauled into a hearing. Not one lost its license.

Instead, 11 simply sold their license to a third party and remained in business. 
Two transferred their license to another location. Six appealed their citations and are still in court hearings, 
and four were private club licenses, not subject to the same penalties as public establishments.

Also, those 23 appear to be bars - not the neighborhood stop-n-gos that so many residents have been 
complaining about. The LCB doesn't seem very interested in those. 
The agency's new list of 27 problem properties, released just yesterday, 
includes just one establishment that appears to be a stop-n-go.

I do have sympathy for those who are in charge of this problem. 
It must be tough to crack down on the troublemakers without making life harder for the 
legitimate business owners who help run our economy.

And I applaud those who, like Philadelphia's state legislators, Rep. Raymond Donatucci and Sen. 
Anthony Williams, are trying to fix it. Donatucci proposes a complex new point system that would 
give enforcers more power, and Williams is planning a request to take Philadelphia's enforcement away 
from the state and give it to Philadelphia cops.

But still.

These stop-n-go delis have been a problem for years, and state officials are guilty of letting it fester.

Unfortunately, it's residents like Sewell and Burnett who wind up paying the price.
 

Tell us your tales of stop-n-go trouble. 
Urban Warrior at 215-854-4810 or e-mail urbanwarrior@phillynews.com
http://66.102.7.104/search?q=cache:LTnVMLPdQkQJ:www.philly.com/mld/philly/news/columnists/carla_anderson/10251492.htm+%22crack+pipes%22+in+candy+stores&hl=en
http://66.102.7.104/search?q=cache:9k_fRdrusC8J:www.philly.com/mld/philly/news/columnists/carla_anderson/10142410.htm+%22crack+pipes%22+in+candy+stores&hl=en





------------------------------------------------------
 - - - response to problem from catholic priest - - -
------------------------------------------------------

The synonym for drugs is death. 

For 22 years I was pastor of Holy Angels Church in the heart of Chicago's lowest socio-economic area. 
The many funerals of drug overdose victims I conducted at Holy Angels convinced me that drugs equal death. 

Were Jesus Christ walking the streets of New York or Miami or Chicago today, 
he would be involved in fighting drugs. Jesus never hesitated to take a stand on hard issues--like leprosy. 
Despised and shunned, drug addicts are today's lepers. 

Jesus hated leprosy and loved lepers. We must hate addiction and love addicts. 

Many of us who battle the satanic evils of drugs are ministers, lawyers, treatment counselors, 
orange-hat patrols, police. We dare not lose heart, dare not surrender to the screams that `after all, 
everyone does drugs.' 

Had I listened to them, I would never have attacked the drug paraphernalia empire. 
I had just come back from the funeral of Tommy, a 16-year old drug overdose victim. 
I sat with my head down on my desk sobbing uncontrollably. 

Suddenly the Holy Spirit yanked me up by my Roman collar: `Listen to your leader's message. 
Get up off your dead posterior!' 

I jumped into my car and drove to a grocery store that sells chewing gum, candy, potato chips and cookies. 
Many of Holy Angels' 1,300 students are customers. 

On the store's shelves right next to those goodies was a dazzling array of drug paraphernalia--
crack pipes, coke pipes, coke spoons, freebase kits, pony packs (small cellophane containers), 
hypodermic needles and syringes. 

Each morning the white store owner drove from his affluent suburb into our black neighborhood. 
That day I yelled at him through his bullet-proof partition, `Take that drug excrement off your shelves, right now!' 

`Get out of my store!' 

`Would you allow your children to use this mess?' 

`Of course not.' 

`Why are you selling it here in our neighborhood?' 

`Because you niggers don't care!' 

I left the store, stood in the doorway and said to every prospective customer: 

`You don't want to go in there. He's selling drug paraphernalia to our kids.' 

`Father, you're right. I'm not going in.' 

The owner had no customers, so 45 minutes later he came outside. 

`I've taken it off the shelves.' 

`Where is it?' 

`Back in the storage room.' 

`Bring that stuff out here on the sidewalk. 
We are going to take these baseball bats out the trunk of my car and smash it up.' 

Soon, joined by other priests, we went to other stores, doing the same thing, 
and finally to the state legislatures. Now we are pushing for federal legislation to ban drug paraphernalia. 

On a related note, I am disgusted at the pious declarations of so-called `role model' athletes and entertainers. 
They tell us they were once into drugs but are now drug free. 
The hidden message youngsters hear is that if they happen to take drugs they can simply 
follow their role models' example and overcome the addiction. 

The athletes and entertainers I want to hear from are those who openly state that they've never taken drugs, 
are not presently taking drugs and have no intention of taking drugs in the future. 

I am adamant: Love the addict, hate the addiction. 

(BY FATHER GEORGE CLEMENTS)

----------------------------------------






January 5, 2006 
Corner stores stock items used for making crack pipes
http://www.katu.com/stories/82289.html
  
By John Capell
and KATU.com Web Staff
PORTLAND, Ore. - Behind the counter of many Portland convenience stores, 
a seemingly harmless item is stashed out of sight near the lottery scratch-off tickets and cigarettes.

It is a common copper scrub pad, called a Chore Boy, 
something that is used in kitchens and homes everywhere.

But located near it is a box of short glass tubes capped by a small piece of cork 
and containing a small plastic flower. 

The possible real-world uses for the small glass tube, known as a rose pipe, seem limited.

But put the glass tube and the Chore Boy scouring pad together, at a total cost of about $3, 
and you have the makings of a common crack pipe.

Following an article published Wednesday in the Portland newspaper Willamette Week, 
KATU reporter John Capell went to several northeast Portland convenience stores to buy the items, 
and to see if store employees and owners knew what they were being used for. 

Following the purchase of the two items, Capell returned to the stores to ask the people 
behind the counter if they knew what they were selling.

One employee, who identified himself only as "Pedro," said the sale of the items was just business, 
just another transaction.

But one woman who sold Capell the items expressed shock at the intended use 
of the small glass pipe and scouring pad. 

She claims she will remove the items from her shelves immediately.

The two items are legal to sell under certain conditions, according to Portland police officials. 

It only becomes illegal if the business knows the items are being sold for drug use or 
if they are specifically requested by buyers for drug use.

According to the Willamette Week article, some clerks sold the items to a reporter 
even when he asked to buy "a crack pipe." 

While meth gets most of the headlines in regards to the Portland drug trade, 
crack cocaine continues to be a problem. 

Bill Diez of the Oregon Partnership, a drug and alcohol awareness program, 
says stores that continue selling the rose pipes and copper scrub pads are 
contributing to the drug problem, and he does not forgive those store operators 
who pass off the sales as just another transaction.

"You can say it's 'just business' if you sell [alcohol] to minors... 
but it is still a damaging thing." Diez added. 


VIDEO: 
 
 Watch this story 
http://www.katu.com/stories/82289.html
http://www.katu.com/video/video_player.asp?ID=82289&VID=http://easylink.playstream.com/katu/060105_crack_pipes_pkg.wvx
http://63.251.167.32/katu/060105_crack_pipes_pkg.wmv
http://64.95.53.21/katu/060105_crack_pipes_pkg.wmv

-----------------------------------------------






Quickie Crack Pipes
Some Portland convenience stores are all too willing to sell everything you need to smoke crack
—and it's perfectly legal.
BY IAN DEMSKY | idemsky at wweek.com  
 http://www.wweek.com/editorial/3209/7105/


As I approached the counter of the Friendly Food Mart at Northeast 60th Avenue 
and Killingsworth Street, I felt like I was back in high school, about to buy condoms for the first time. 

"Do you guys have any of those rose pipes?" I asked. 

"Two dollars," the clerk said, already reaching under the counter for a 
four-inch glass tube the diameter of a ballpoint pen and capped at one end with a thin slice of cork. 
Inside the tube was a chintzy yellow flower the size of a pinky nail on a green plastic stem. 

"And a Chore Boy." 

"One dollar," the clerk said, pulling a Chore Boy copper scouring pad from the same place under the counter. 
To transform the gewgaw into a crack pipe, remove the cork and flower from the tube and stuff a 
shred of scrubber into one end to act as a filter. 

As an experiment, WW went to 13 convenience stores last week asking for rose pipes. 
Four stores sold them to a reporter. While that may be old news to the street-savvy, 
it's apparently unworthy of police attention: A couple of bucks and the right passwords 
can get pretty much anyone who can stagger into the right convenience store the implements they need for a fix. 

"I sell this stuff. People buy it. But what they do with it, I don't know," 
says Friendly Food owner Amin, who would not give his last name (state records say it's Douraghi). 
"What they do with it is no concern of mine." 

The Chore Boy is kept under the counter so it won't be stolen, he says. 

Selling the rose tubes isn't a crime unless police can prove a clerk knew you 
intended to smoke crack or meth with it instead of, say, giving the trinket as a last-minute anniversary gift. 

"Otherwise, it's not illegal," says Portland police spokesman Sgt. Brian Schmautz. 

Still, most clerks at the other 12 stores WW visited harbored no illusions about the devices' 
raison d'ętre when asked if they sold "the little roses in the glass tubes." 

"We don't sell crack pipes here," says Mike Vandever, a manager at Peterson's on Fourth downtown. 

But from the looks given at some other shops, it was hard to tell if clerks truly didn't have 
any idea or if they were just being cautious. Portland Police Bureau and Multnomah County Sheriff's Office 
officials say their resources are better used fighting more serious crimes. 

"We don't have enough officers to investigate all the burglaries that we have," Schmautz says.



------------------------------





State lawmakers shocked by crack pipes in corner stores
http://www.wpmi.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=FE06B32C-89CE-492C-80B6-D52734A1C2FC

MOBILE, Ala)  December 1 -- NBC 15 finds crack pipes for sale, easy to get, at corner stores.  
To show you how easy, we went undercover.

With current drug paraphernalia laws, Police say they have to prove intent with every sale.   
They say their hands are tied.

But after a local clerk says, "everybody knows they're used to smoke crack." 
Mobile Mayor Mike Dow starts looking into new laws.  "If they know it's a crack pipe, if we know. 
If they're selling brillo pads along with it, lets get some law and shut them down."

Now State Senator Vivian Davis Figures wants action.  
"I want to use whatever influence I have to protect our children."

And with current drug paraphernalia laws, she says the only way may be a new one.  
"If the laws we have on the book are not working, we need to do something different, 
cuz this is just, its so flagrant."

Senator Figures, now says she'll make drafting a new law a top priority.  
She says she's planning meetings with local prosecutors and Alabama's Attorney General, Troy King.  
"I think its disturbing."

King says he knows the obstacles in the current law.  "Maybe we need to toughen the laws. 
Maybe we need the legislature to step in."

He says he knows drug users may abuse other legal products.  "It doesn't mean we shouldn't try. 
Our kids are too important. Those who become caught up in the bonds of addiction, they're too important."

Figures agrees and says she'll work for quick change.  "I see it happening in this coming session. 
And I think there will be many other legislatures as shocked as I was."


 VIDEO: http://video.wpmi.com/viewer/viewerpage.php?Art_ID=62103







----------------------------reply from drugsense.org--------------------------------------


Um ... Don't crackheads just use car-antennas and brillopads if
they can't find anything else?  

Doug Snead  
Reply-To :  doug@drugsense.org 


Yes I suppose they do.  Perhaps we're wrong to take away the convenience of manufactured pipes 
sold beside our kid's candy?  In fact, let's just sell the drugs in the corner stores too so 
they don't have to make that extra trip to their dealer. 

Lisa 






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