RAVE PARTY CREATES CONCERNS

The rave scene has made its way out of the cities, and teenagers in this
area now have more access to this newest youth craze than ever before.

Advertisements circulated recently for another "all night dance party" in
Drumheller, coming on the heels of news that RCMP recently shut down a huge
rave in that community which was expected to attract 2,000 people.

"We're not anticipating any raves actually taking place in Hanna, but the
rave scene has definitely hit this area," said Sergeant Glen Haner.
"Drumheller is certainly dealing with this activity and in an indirect way
Hanna teens are being exposed to this scene. You no longer have to drive two
hours to the city to attend a rave - you just have to drive down the
street."

The biggest concern about this hugely popular type of dance party is the
prevalence of a drug called ecstasy. The chemical is being produced with
varying levels of competence. Recipes for ecstasy can be found on the
Internet, and some pushers have been found concocting it in their basements.
Several other types of drugs are often called ecstasy, making it difficult
for rave guests to know what they are purchasing and ingesting.

Ecstasy users claim the drug induces a feeling of euphoria and an
overwhelming sense of energy, making it possible to dance all night, which
is the fad of rave parties. But the drug robs the brain of a chemical that
keeps moods stable and is often followed by feelings of severe depression
and other complications. While not everyone who attends raves do drugs, the
reality is that ecstasy is paramount to the rave culture.

"We held some presentations for high school students at J.C. Charyk last
spring, because with increased awareness and knowledge our students are in a
better position to protect themselves," said Brenda Karg, Family Resource
worker. "We also arranged for AADAC counselors to share their expertise with
students regarding the availability and dangers of various drugs associated
with raves. I haven't heard about kids in our community participating in
raves, but we want to be sure they're aware of the issues surrounding them.

Hanna's RCMP are now including information on raves as part of their DARE
program in local schools. AADAC has produced several brochures and research
papers on the subject, which are available at the local Health Unit and
Family Resource Worker offices.

Meanwhile, Drumheller RCMP and social agencies are working to determine a
course of action regarding the fledgling rave scene in that community.