DRUG EDUCATION OFFERED

Parents Learn About Drug Paraphernalia

A parents' workshop last Wednesday evening provided hands-on
information about drug paraphernalia. A drug kit consisting of pipes,
papers, water bongs, tools used to hide drugs, crack pipes meth pipes
etc were on hand for parents to analyze in order to accurately
identify the tools to use drugs (paraphernalia).

The purpose of the event is strictly to inform the public of what is
out there states Meyer, the alcohol and drug counsellor at Summerland
Asset Development Initiative. He explains that the use of marijuana
and other illegal drugs is happening in our community and throughout
the province.

Levels of THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, are significantly
higher than in previous years. This is not the marijuana of the 70s,
Meyer says.

"We are not playing pong anymore, technology has surpassed my era," he
says. "Methods of manufacturing marijuana have changed therefore
changing the levels of THC. We have changed our views on nicotine use.
It is harder to buy a package of cigarettes than to score weed, you
don't need identification to buy marijuana. More teens prefer to smoke
marijuana than cigarettes; it has become the gateway drug of the decade."

Meyer plans to offer additional workshops.

"It's our responsibility as professionals to get correct and accurate
information to the public," he says. "We're trying to prevent children
from using drugs before they pick up," he says.

Those who are interested in participating in a parenting workshop or
just want to ask a question regarding drugs, children, and behavior
are asked to call Jody Meyer.