CADCA's Mid-Year Institute

CADCA’s 2003 Mid Year Training Institute in San Francisco got off to a great start! In the morning, 300 attendees heard from three distinct, yet equally committed, voices on substance abuse issues from the San Francisco area.

San Francisco’s Mayor, Willie Brown, recognized substance abuse as one of America’s top health problems and discussed the devastating number of the disenfranchised affected. Mayor Brown reflected on the challenges professionals face in everyday efforts to help those in need of treatment. He stated that many of the disenfranchised do not find universal support from politicians because those who suffer may not make their presence known at the ballot box. He also discussed that substance abuse services that come at the onset of crisis are very costly but come when they are most needed. In addition, Mayor Brown applauded the dedication and commitment of those gathered and encouraged them to continue helping those who are destitute. He closed with some humorous comments and encouraged attendees to explore the city.

After Mayor Brown’s comments, Acting Police Chief Alex Fagan stressed that although interdiction is important, interdiction alone is not enough to reduce substance abuse. He cited education and programs are also necessary and crucial. He declared that challenges must be met with optimism instead of despair.

Kathryn Jett, Director of California Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs, believes that environmental change is the key to substance abuse prevention and reducing demand. She summarized California’s approach to prevention and acknowledged using youth activities, bridging treatment and prevention and getting the message out via public service announcements as ways to reduce substance abuse.

CADCA Chairman and CEO Gen. Arthur T. Dean and San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown chat before the opening session.

San Francisco Acting Police Chief Alex Fagan addresses the audience while Kathryn Jett (CA State Director of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Programs), Gen. Arthur Dean, and Ron Brooks (director of San Francisco HIDTA) look on.

Mayor Brown addresses the crowd and welcomes all to San Francisco.

Over 300 attendees convened in San Francisco for CADCA's Mid-Year Training Institute.

Arthur T. Dean shares a laugh with Kathryn Jett.

Mary E. Larson (CADCA), Tuan Pham (Phamatech, Inc. President and CEO) and Jane Callahan (CADCA) celebrate the opening of the Mid-Year Training Institute. Phamatech, Inc. sponsored the welcoming reception.

Mid-Year Training Institute attendees are greeted at registration by Natalie Embrey, CADCA's Development and Youth Outreach Associate.

National Guard attendees enjoy Mayor Brown's colorful welcome.

Ron Brooks, General Dean, Mayor Brown and Kathryn Jett

Dr. Pham emphasizes the important relationship between CADCA, its coalitions, and Phamatech and pledges his support.