ARVIAT - A small group of kids had the chance to attend a unique presentation on drugs and bullying in Arviat this past month.

The Arviat Alliance Church brought in Greg and Oonaugh Wood of Winnipeg for the shows.

Greg has been teaching and speaking about drug and alcohol abuse, prevention and recovery for more than 25 years.

In 1992, he combined that with his talents as an illusionist to produce programs specializing in drug prevention, stranger danger, the magic of teamwork and banding together for a bully-free school.

Greg is a three-time winner of Winnipeg's Best of Variety Act and has twice won its Close Up Conjuror's Award.

Studies have shown bullying stops in less than 10 seconds 57 per cent of the time when peers intervene on behalf of the victim.

BAND is an acronym for Bullying is never okay, Ask for help, No one deserves to be bullied and Do your part!

The program aims at students in kindergarten up to Grade 6.

The Woods' show was originally slated to be held in Arviat schools, but a decision to hold in-service days prevented that from happening.

Bradley and Jackie Williams of the Arviat Alliance Church brought the Woods to Arviat.

Bradley said they saw the Woods perform during a prayer retreat this past January and it was suggested they bring the two to Arviat.

"During the bullying show, they talked about how one person can be a hero and can help victims by standing up to a bully and telling their teachers," said Bradley.

"He illustrates his message through illusion and the kids really enjoy that.

"The turnout was a little lower than we expected, but those who did attend enjoyed it thoroughly.

"Hopefully, if we can get them back, more kids will attend."

Bradley said the show on saying no to drugs also went over well with the kids.

He said the talk on peer pressure and creating a plan now to say no when people offer you drugs later made an impact with the kids.

"The kids were shy, but once they were on the stage they did well with the illusions they were involved with.

"The visit was a success and we'd certainly like to have them back if we can.

"We appreciate the support we got from Eskimo Point Lumber Supply, Padli Co-op, First Air, Northern store, Arviat Youth Program and the Christian and Missionary Alliance Midwest District to make this possible."