TAKE ADVANTAGE OF TEACHABLE MOMENT

Dear Editor:

Video recently leaked onto the Internet of Miley Cyrus smoking
salvia, a herb that can produce hallucinogenic effects when smoked or
ingested. Since then, there have been reports of increases in salvia
sales at some California smoke shops.

As parents, we need to examine how incidents like this affect our
kids. It begs the question: What type of influence do celebrities
have on kids and teens with regard to important issues such as
substance use and abuse?

This is the perfect example of a teachable moment - a way for parents
to get educated and initiate a conversation with their kids and teens
about drug and alcohol use.

Here in Arizona, the average age of first drug use is 13 years old,
which means we need to start the conversation early and keep the
dialogue going. It's the single most effective way for us to raise
healthy, drug-free kids.

Shelly Mowrey

Director of Programs and Communications

Partnership for a Drug-Free America, Arizona Affiliate