Hernando County Community Anti-Drug Coalition
February 23, 2005-Meeting Minutes

I. Meeting Opened. 4:00 pm, Terence Gorski, Chairman called the meeting to order.

II. Networking and Introductions.

III. Members Present.
Shellie Lavore, Mary A. Staib, Tresa Watson, Sandra Marrero, Mary Benedett, Debra Pilla, Major Merle Letts, Bill Horvath, Lisa Hammond, Doris Bedell, Terry Gorski and Janice Smith.

IV. January 26, 2005 Minutes Reviewed & Approved. During the review process, Debra Pilla noticed that her name was accidentally omitted from the Alcohol Task Force. Tresa Watson immediately corrected this oversight. Terry Gorski called for a motion for the minutes of the last meeting to be approved. The motion was made by Tresa Watson and seconded by Debra Pilla. Motion carried.

V. Financial Report. Treasurer, Janice Ferguson reported that there has been no change in finances, since January 26, 2005.

VI. Star Program Review. Coalition member Bill Horvath has developed a high school prevention program that delivers information and education for drug awareness and abuse. The Star Program includes the history of drug abuse, warning signs that lead to drug abuse, educates students to the effects on the body, explains to children and parents the dangers and the urgent need to educate the community. The program is currently under review by Hernando County Sheriff’s Office for implementation of a nine week program each school quarter. For more information on “The Star Program” please contact Bill Horvath at 797-7075 x215. Bill is willing to discuss and present this information to any interested party.

VII. State Wide Alcohol Initiative. Shellie Lavore reported that the State Wide Alcohol Initiative Grant was submitted and awarded to the HCCAD coalition. The coalition will receive the full $50,000. Shellie explained the grant in its entirety. Terry Gorski suggested that a chairman be appointed to the Hernando County Alcohol Prevention Task Force. Merle Letts made a motion that Shellie Lavore activate the task force and call an initial meeting. The motioned was seconded by Doris Bedell. Motion carried, with no date set. The members of the Hernando County Alcohol Prevention Task Force are Harriet Martin, Bill Horvath, Debra Miles, Sondra Marrero, Debra Pilla, and Harry Hill. This task force is a subcommittee of the Coalition.

VIII. 2004 Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey. There was a brief discussion of the recently released survey results. Hernando County did not score well and the overall results are poor.

IX. Media Event. On March 1, 2005 a media event is scheduled for the recipients of the Alcohol Initiative Grant. Shellie Lavore invited all members of the coalition so that Hernando County is properly represented.

X. Adjournment. Lisa Hammond called for a motion to adjourn at 5:10 pm, motion seconded by Debra Pilla. Motion carried.

Next Meeting-NOTE LOCATION:
March 30, 2005, 4:00 pm

Hernando County Sheriff's Office
18900 Cortez Blvd.
Brooksville, FL 34601