News Release                   For Immediate Release

September 16, 2004

Barbara Coloroso to Address Bullying Issue

‘Bullying is a community issue,” says Public Health Nurse Angela Bartlett.   “It’s important we learn how to prevent bullying before it starts.  Through understanding we can help our community become healthier.”

The Bluewater District School Board, in partnership with Public Health and Hepcoe Credit Union, has organized an evening for parents and community members.  Barbara Coloroso, internationally recognized speaker and expert on bullying, will address this issue with information from her book entitled “The Bully, the Bullied and the Bystander.”  The evening will take place on Sunday, September 26, 2004 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Owen Sound Collegiate & Vocational Institute, 1550 8th Street East, Owen Sound.   Tickets are $15 and may be purchased at the Public Health Unit.  

 “We know that bullying has an effect on the well-being of children and youth in our community and schools,” says Sue Loyst, Principal of Student Services for the Bluewater District School Board.  “We hope that this presentation will help parents and others learn more about bullying, so that we can work together and make our community a safe place for everyone.”

At a similar event in June, Mike Neuts spoke with students in Grey-Bruce about a bullying incident that resulted in the death of his son Myles Neuts.  Both Coloroso and Neuts will be part of a professional development day for the school board, which involves teachers, custodians, bus drivers and some community partners on September 27, 2004.

A third event will be held on Wednesday September 29, 2004 at the CAW Centre in Port Elgin with Mike Neuts from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.  The public is welcome to attend free of charge.  A food donation to the local food bank would be appreciated.  For further information call Public Health at 881-1920. 

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For more information:

Angela Bartlett

Public Health Nurse,

Grey Bruce Health Unit

(519) 881-1920 Ext. 229

Sue Loyst

Principal of Student Service

Bluewater District School Board

(519) 363-2014 Ext 226.