Iqaluit (Nov 22/04) - Entertainers, business leaders and others brought a sobering message about drugs and alcohol to youth in the Kitikmeot last week.

The drug and alcohol awareness tour was organized by the Kitikmeot Corporation.

Charlie Lyall, president of the Kitikmeot Corporation, joined by Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. vice-president James Eetoolook, Christy Brewster of Canadian Airlines, and popular Northern entertainers George Tuccaro and John Tees, and Bill Davidson from Larga Homes in Edmonton, visited schools in Cambridge Bay, Kugluktuk, Gjoa Haven, Kugaaruk and Taloyoak.

"We started this tour last year and it was so well received and inspirational that we've decided to make it an annual event," said Lyall.

"If we can make a difference in the life of just one young person and encourage them to make healthy decisions in their lives it is worth it."

Tuccaro, Tees and Davidson spoke openly about their painful struggles with booze and drugs.

Davidson said the project sends a powerful message to students when they hear from someone what it's like to battle an addiction.

"How it controls one's life and how destructive it can be," Davidson said.

The tour was designed to coincide with National Addictions Awareness Week.