FFWD Weekly
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News by Maureen McNamee Campaign on drunk driving, drug abuse aimed at local bands A former drug addict who was injured by a drunk driver is launching a campaign aimed at musicians to warn people about the dangers of alcohol and drug use. "This is my life – it’s a lot better than putting a needle in my arm," says Joseph Albert, who spends winters working the pipeline and summers working on the Choose Your Ride Home/ Choose Your Life campaign. "I must be here for a reason.... A lot of people who used to stand beside me are not here today." Albert, who considers himself lucky to be alive, is inviting local bands to record their own CD free of charge. He has received use of space in Cochrane at a paintball location, and other businesses have donated some of the equipment. "They’re able to come out and make a master copy of their CD.... They’re going to have a chance to meet someone that’s been in the business," says Albert, an experienced sound technician. The goal is to get people out, and get them talking about the issues – he will share his personal experiences and listen to theirs in an effort to discourage drunk driving and drug abuse. Albert, who has working on the initiative for a couple of years, says he has a giant mural and has prepared skits to help him get the message across, and several individuals and businesses have offered support. "I’m just really happy right now that everybody’s helping." The first recording session runs from July 20 to 23, and he is currently booking bands. If response is good, he plans to offer another session the following week; if not, he’ll return to the pipeline and continue planning for next year’s effort. Regardless, Albert says he’ll never give up trying. To book a recording time or for more information, phone Albert at 285-6345.

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