YOUTH SURVEY ON DRUGS, OTHER ISSUES TO BE TOPIC

The results of a youth survey taken last year of Chesterfield County
students' habits regarding drugs, alcohol and relationships will be
presented Thursday night.

SAFE, which stands for Substance Abuse Free Environment, is a
community coalition of parents and school and county officials
working to prevent alcohol and drug abuse. SAFE conducted the study
of 2,501 students in grades 8, 10 and 12 last November.

The survey asked students questions about how often they drink
alcohol or use drugs, and how easy it is for them to get these
substances. It also asked students about relationships with their
peers and family.

While the results won't be made public until Thursday night, SAFE
representatives said the survey points to underage drinking as one
of the main issues, as well as eighth-graders' use of inhalants.

The meeting will be at 7 p.m. at Bon Air Baptist Church.
Refreshments will be served at 6:30 p.m.

School and county officials will be on hand, as well as legislators
and a representative from Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

Parents will be allowed to ask questions, and SAFE representatives
will offer strategies on fighting youth substance abuse.

For details on the meeting, call SAFE at 796-7100 or e-mail
frith.safe@earthlink.net.