DCCCA Prevention

Alcohol Awareness Month

2011-04-07T11:17:00.005-05:00

April is Alcohol Awareness Month which is a great time to talk to your children about drinking. Here are some reason's why it's important to talk to your children:

-Children become curious and some try drinking as early as 9 years old.

Before age 9, children typically view drinking negatively. Between 9 and 13, they start to view alcohol more positively. Children become more aware of the drinking behavior of their parents and other adults.

-Conversation is often more effective before children start drinking.

The reason most children choose not to drink is because their parents talked to them about it. If you talk to them directly and honestly, they are more likely to respect your rules and advice about alcohol use.

-Children who start drinking at a young age are more likely to have problems with alcohol later in life.

Children who begin drinking before age 15 are seven times more likely to abuse alcohol or to have alcohol problems as adults. By starting a conversation about alcohol early, you can stop them from making a decision that could potentially harm their health and future.

-The chance that children will use alcohol increases as they get older.

Around 10% if 12-yr-olds say they've tried alcohol, but by age 15 that number jumps to 50%. The sooner you talk to your child about alcohol, the greater chance you have of impacting his or her decisions about drinking.

-If you don't talk about it, you're saying something.

What you say to your child about alcohol use is up to you. But remember, if you don't say anything to your child about drinking, you might give the impression that underage drinking is acceptable.

Spring Break Tips for Teens and Parents

2011-03-16T13:04:00.005-05:00

Spring break is right around the corner. Here are some tips for parents and teens taking a trip. Feel free to print these pages and take to the dinner table. It is just another excuse to talk to teens! You'll be glad you did and they will have the tools to stay safe.

http://www.antidrug.com/springbreak/

http://www.wcupa.edu/dps/PDF/Spring%20Break%20Tips.pdf

Are Your Teens Stressed?

2011-03-04T10:05:00.002-06:00

Is your teen involved in lots of different activities at school? On top of that all the school work, projects, scholarships and other things that come along with school itself. Teens these days have a lot on their plate and may very well be stressed out. Talk to your teen to see how they are doing and see if they are overwhelmed. If so help them to scale back. Below is a link for you to help your child slow down and stress less.

http://www.timetotalk.org/Downloads/TTT_Stress_Tips.pdf?tr=y&auid=7867570

FAKE ID 101 CAMPAIGN

2011-02-28T09:12:00.003-06:00

February 26, 2011 Excerpt from Lawrence Journal World article
No Faking: Lawrence police cracking down on bogus IDs
Archive for Saturday, February 26, 2011
Coalition uses KDOT grant to fight underage drinking

The Facebook ad targeted Lawrence area youths who might be looking for a fake ID.
Apparently, the power of advertising works.

A total of 5,247 people between the ages of 16 and 20 clicked on the ad that featured a fake ID using the character “McLovin’” from the movie “Superbad” during a 60-day period last semester.

But instead of getting a chance to obtain a fake ID that could be used to try to buy booze at Lawrence liquor stores and bars, people who clicked on the ad were directed to a website: the New Tradition Coalition of Lawrence, which combats alcohol abuse and underage drinking.

Coalition members said interest in the Facebook ad clearly illustrates the demand for fake IDs and the prevalence of underage drinking in Lawrence, particularly among Kansas University students.

“That bothered me because that many kids actually clicked on it because they were thinking they were going to get a fake ID,” said Jen Jordan, director of prevention for DCCCA. “We know that underage drinking is an issue in Lawrence and at KU and other colleges. We’re just trying to address it.”

Among the efforts is a project dubbed Fake ID 101.
See more at:
http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2011/feb/26/no-faking-lawrence-police-cracking-down-bogus-ids/

Check Yourself For Teens

2011-02-22T13:46:00.002-06:00

All teenagers get curious about drugs and alcohol. Check yourself is a place for older teens to think in a focused way about their relationship with drugs and alcohol, and invites them to consider whether their substance use risks turning into a problem for them. So check out the website yourself and make sure to let your teen know about it. It help gives them important information as well as a voice with the discussion boards that are available. Click on the link below to go to the website:

http://www.checkyourself.com/

Over-the-Counter Drug Abuse

2011-01-26T11:40:00.004-06:00

Are you familiar with what medicines your kids are buying and how often or why they are taking them? Over-the-Counter Drugs are one of the most common drugs to be abused because they are so readily available. When taken in high doses kids can get a high effect but it is extremely dangerous when done. Find out more information about over-the-counter drugs and signs that your child is abusing them by clicking on the link below:

http://www.theantidrug.com/drug-information/otc-prescription-drug-abuse/over-the-counter-drug-abuse/default.aspx

New Texting & Driving Law

2011-01-25T09:42:00.000-06:00

May 24th, 2010 - Kansas Texting Bill Signed into Law
Kansas Senate Bill 300 has been signed into law by Governor Parkinson.

The new law prohibits drivers from writing, sending, or reading a text message while driving.

The ban on text messaging went into effect on January 1st, 2011.

The minimum fine is $60 plus court costs and the maximum fine is $150. The consequences of texting while driving are even higher! Share this new law with people you know.

Safe Ride Home On New Year's Eve

2010-12-28T10:46:00.002-06:00

If you or anyone you know will be out drinking on New Year's Eve let them know about Tipsy Taxi. Tipsy Taxi is put on every year by DCCCA and donations from businesses. It provides free taxi rides home for those who have been drinking. Call 842-TAXI(8294) and request a Tipsy Taxi. For more information click below:

http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2010/dec/27/tipsy-taxi-returns-new-years-eve-give-lawrence-res/

How to Talk to Your Child

2010-11-30T10:50:00.002-06:00

Remember the fried egg? ..."This is your brain on drugs." We were young then - maybe close to the age of our children now. The organization that put that campaign together is the "Partnership for a Drugfree America". It was around before there even was a world wide web. Today, they have a web site that helps parents every day.

The Partnership at Drugfree.org is a nonprofit organization that helps parents prevent, intervene in and find treatment for drug and alcohol use by their children. By bringing together renowned scientists, parent experts and communications professionals, we not only translate current research on teen behavior, addiction and treatment into easy to understand, actionable resources at drugfree.org, but we offer hope and help to the parents of the 11 million teens and young adults who need help with drugs and alcohol.

Their website allows parents to connect with each other, tap into expert advice and find support in their role as hero to their kids.

Suspect that your child is using alcohol or drugs? Check out this link and learn how to deal with it. Lots of great resources and ideas!

http://www.drugfree.org/intervene

Alcohol and Energy Drinks= A Bad Mix

2010-11-23T12:25:00.003-06:00

Joose and Four Loko are just a couple of the names of these popular alcoholic drinks that are flying off the shelves. They are 24 ounce cans and have about 5.6 drinks in one can. These drinks have caused a huge stir due to the amount of alcohol you get at a very cheap price. The problem is they are a huge health risk because alcohol is a depressant and the energy drink is a stimulant. These two opposite beverages in the same can causes a lot of harm to the body. Some states have already banned them and now the FDA is looking into their safety. Kansas banned them and these drinks are to not be sold anymore after December 1st. For more information click on the link below:

http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2010/nov/22/statehouse-live-alcoholic-energy-drinks-banned-sta/

5 Way to Trick Your Teens with a Healthy Drug-Free Halloween

2010-10-29T09:49:00.002-05:00

Here are a few tips to help your teen be drug-free and safe for Halloween!

Five Ways to Trick Your Teens with a Healthy, Drug-Free Halloween
1. Trick Them Into Talking
A) Listen First: Let teens vent, talk and not feel judged – and be sure to keep the focus on them when they are talking to you.
B) Ask The Right Questions: Instead of giving advice, ask questions. Ask them more about how they feel, what they think they should do, what others have done. Not only will you learn more about how your teen thinks, you will also help them explore their own situation.
C) Let them, or show them, how to come to their own answers: When you ask them questions, try to guide them to come up with the answer on their own, instead of you telling them what to do. That way, they will feel more empowered. They ‘own’ their solution because they came up with it. This will also help them feel closer to you. (FamilyDoctor.org)

2. Treat Yourself to Digital and Interactive Technology Interact with the latest technology, and you’ll gain a better understanding of your teen’s world. Learn to use online social networks like Facebook, blogs and status update services like Twitter. Texting your teen is a great non-confrontational way to check in, show your support and stay connected. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, the average amount of time young people spend consuming entertainment media is up dramatically to almost eight hours per day – that’s at least 53 hours a week of immersion in some form of media. That’s why it’s more important than ever for parents to break through the media noise and make their voices heard.

3. Trick Your Teens Into Staying Out of Trouble Encourage your teen to join a club, play a sport or do community service. This will give her something structured to do after school, and she can include her wider circle of friends in the activities. There may be lots of healthy (and cheap!) opportunities right in your community. Try getting ideas at the library, her school or your place of worship for how your teen can get actively involved in community volunteering (The Teenager’s Guide to the Real World)

4. Trick Them Into Feeling Good About Themselves Give your teen lots of praise and positive feedback. Teens need to hear the "good stuff" just like the rest of us. They need to know you can still see beyond the things they do wrong from time to time. Catch them being good and always reward positive, responsible, mature behavior to help build their own self-esteem so they make more positive choices.

5. Treat Them with Love and Support It's important that teens feel supported by their parents, so be sure to let your child know that he or she can always count on you and come to you for guidance.

Reassure your child that she can confide in or seek advice from you when she's stressed or dealing with a personal issue.
As frustrated as you may feel sometimes (let’s face it, teens know how to push our buttons), try to speak from a place of love, caring and concern – and express these feelings to your teen.
Remind your teen that the reason you're always talking with her and asking questions is because you love her, care about her and want her to be healthy and successful. Have a safe, happy and healthy Halloween!

Red Ribbon Week

2010-10-28T10:23:00.006-05:00

Do you know what Red Ribbon Week is? Have your kids been coming home talking about it, or have you been seeing things around town? Red Ribbon week is an ideal way for people and communities to unite and take a stand against substance abuse. Grade school through high school will usually have themed weeks with activities throughout the week. This year Red Ribbon Week runs from October 23rd-October 31st. For more information on Red Ribbon Week, go to the website below:

http://www.nfp.org/default.asp?PageNum=582

It's Never to Early

2010-10-22T11:28:00.005-05:00

Have you talked to your kids about alcohol? It is never to early to start the talk. Kids learn earlier and earlier about alcohol. As a parent you want to make sure you talk to them about it. Even if you think they aren't listening they really are. Kids are starting to drink in middle school so the sooner you talk to them about alcohol and the consequences the better off you are. To learn more click on the link below:

http://www.connectwithkids.com/tipsheet/2010/512_oct20/thisweek/101020_education.shtml

What will Teens do for Popularity?

2010-10-08T09:45:00.004-05:00

For teenagers being popular means everything to some of them. To be popular teens will go to great limits to fit in and it includes a lot of peer pressure. Being popular leads to alcohol and drug use often times which then leads to many problems. Make sure you know where your kids are and who they are hanging out with. Make sure you are talking to your kids as well as listening to your kids. Help them to make friends but do it in the right way. For more information go to the following article:

http://www.connectwithkids.com/tipsheet/2010/510_oct6/thisweek/101006_popularity.shtml

Are Your Kids Struggling With Grades?

2010-09-30T11:14:00.004-05:00

Are your kids being distracted by facebook, tv, or the phone? Are their grades slipping due to these distractions? When grades aren't good parents should definitely address the situation but don't push them. Kids like to rebel so if is overdone they will just not do their homework at all. This article provides some tips on how to meet in the middle! For more information read below:

http://www.connectwithkids.com/tipsheet/2010/508_sep22/thisweek/100922_grades.shtml

E-Cigarettes

2010-09-27T10:06:00.003-05:00

Becoming very popular the E-cigarettes are in a lot of people hands especially the teenage population. With different flavors such as bubble gum and cookie dough they are quite appealing. Teenagers are starting younger and younger with cigarettes. You can't get cigarettes until 18 but E-cigarettes have no age limit which is why the kids tend to go for them as well. Starting in the 5th or 6th grade make sure you are having talks with your kids about cigarettes. They are very addicting and at such a young age it only takes one to make them want many more. For more information go to the article below:

http://www.connectwithkids.com/tipsheet/2010/508_sep22/thisweek/100922_cigarettes.shtml

Family Day Contest

2010-09-24T12:49:00.004-05:00

You could win up to a $90 Dillon's gift card just for sending in what you did for Family Day. So start thinking now what your going to be cooking for that great family meal! :) Below are the details for the contest:

http://wellcommons.com/groups/wellness/news/2010/sep/21/livewell-lawrence-contest/

Family Day

2010-09-23T12:29:00.004-05:00

Do you eat dinner with your family on a regular basis? If not you should definitely start trying to do it at least a few times a week. In 2001 the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse started Family Day- A Day to Eat Dinner With Your Children. Research finds that the more often families eat together the less likely kids are to smoke, drink, or do drugs. Today is a great day to start tonight bring the whole family around the dinner table to eat. For more information click on the link below:

http://wellcommons.com/groups/wellness/news/2010/sep/22/research-shows-eating-mea/

Teen Girls More Likely to See Benefits in Drug and Alcohol Use

2010-09-21T10:02:00.003-05:00

Today teens believe that alcohol and drugs can fix their problems and take their pain away. According to the Partnership Attitude Tracking Study (PATS), sponsored by MetLife Foundation, teen girls are more likely to associate drugs and alcohol as a answer to their problems. If your a parent of a teen make sure you are talking to them about their problems and what is going on in their life. Read the article below to get more facts and tips about your teen.

http://www.drugfree.org/Portal/About/NewsReleases/New_Data

Family Day

2010-09-20T13:16:00.003-05:00

Family Day is coming up on September 27th, what are you going to be doing for it. Family Day-a Day to Eat Dinner with Your Children- is a national effort to promote family dinners as an effective way to reduce substance abuse among children and teens. Read the article below to learn some things going on locally in Lawrence.

http://wellcommons.com/groups/wellness/news/2010/sep/17/family-day-iv/

Fake ID 101

2010-09-17T10:05:00.004-05:00

You or someone you know have a fake ID? You may want to get rid of it now. Fake ID 101 posters are up all over Lawrence with the warnings of getting caught with a fake ID and law enforcement are out full force For more information read below:

http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2010/aug/10/agency-bars-prepare-fight-fake-ids/

Coalition receives grant to combat teen drug use, drinking

2010-09-09T12:20:00.008-05:00

As of September 1st, the New Tradition Coalition received a federal grant to fight teen use of drugs and alcohol. The use of drugs and alcohol amongst teens has reached alarming rates. Seniors from the Lawrence Senior High Schools participated in the CTC Survey reporting that 49% have smoked marijuana at least once in their life and 36% reported consuming five or more drinks of alcohol at least two weeks prior to taking the survey. Lawrence has been announced as a beneficiary of the Drug Free Communities Support Program. Received funds will help to provide marketing campaigns and information to parents who host parties for underage drinkers as well as provide part time funding for Prevention Specialists in the Lawrence Senior High Schools. For more information the story is below:

http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2010/sep/02/coalition-receives-grant-combat-teen-drug-use-drin/

Red Ribbon Week!

2009-10-26T09:52:00.004-05:00

Red Ribbon Week is here!! It is being celebrated in schools this week with different activities your students can participate in. Red Ribbon week runs from October 23rd-October 31st! Red Ribbon Week is a way for people and communities to unite and take a visible stand against substance abuse. So make sure you're asking your kids all about what they are doing this week!

For more information on Red Ribbon week you can visit this site:
http://www.nfp.org/

Prescription Drugs

2009-09-30T11:20:00.003-05:00

Prescription drugs are becoming more popular so people are hearing more and more about them. They have become a drug of choice to many young adults. They are readily available in just about any household and that is being taken advantage of. Below is a Q&A session between Dr. Drew and the Nations Drug Czar about prescription drugs. Read it and find out great and helpful information.

http://www.theantidrug.com/advice/expert-advice/general-parenting/dr-drew-chat.aspx

Do You Have Family Dinners??

2009-07-08T09:51:00.002-05:00

How often do you sit down with your family for dinner? According to the studies done by CASA it is important that you do this often to prevent substance abuse. Kids who eat with their familes very little are twice as likely to be involved in substance abuse. So start trying to make dinner a must for your family and you can help make a difference!

To read the full article click below:
http://washingtontimes.com/news/2009/jul/06/family-dinners-worth-the-time/

Anti-Smoking Bill

2009-06-15T10:52:00.003-05:00

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will now be in charge of what tobacco companies are doing! The FDA will be in charge of what goes in to the cigarettes and can minimize the amount of nicotine used. No more targeting children, no more flavors, and warning labels covering 50% of the box are just a few of the great changes to come. This bill will help eliminate the many deaths as well as prevent young people from ever starting.

To read the full article click here:
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/us_fda_tobacco;_ylt=AiETNGN4MkJAipBXf04LQR.CfNdF

Graphic Warnings on Cigerette Packages

2009-06-05T10:01:00.005-05:00

What better way to give cigerette buyers a good piece of information then a graphic design? The World Health Organization(WHO) is recommending that tobacco companies put graphic warnings and designs on tobacco packages. Only one tenth of the world requires this, could we be next?

To read the full article click here:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/29/AR2009052900567_pf.html

Alcohol and The Media

2009-05-26T10:53:00.005-05:00

You have probably seen a billboard or sign about alcohol today. What about a commercial advertising a type of alcohol? Alcohol is everywhere you turn, especially in the media and advertising. Did you know that the more you see alcohol in the media, the more likely you are to drink? According to a recent study viewers who watched movies and commercials with lots of alcohol in them drank more than those who seen no alcohol in their movies and commercials.

To read the full article click here:
http://freshstory.org/blog/freshstory.php?p=74&more=1&c=1&tb=1&pb=1#more74

New Age of Smoking

2009-04-22T14:28:00.003-05:00

A new era of smoking is just around the corner. Electronic cigarettes are on the craze but are they really all that they are cracked up to be? The FDA does not think that the electronic cigarettes are as great as they claim to be.

To read or watch this article click here:
http://www.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/03/13/ecigarettes.smoking/

Kansas Meth Watch

2009-04-14T12:13:00.004-05:00

Methamphetamine is on the rise. Since there is a large demand for this drug there has to be a lot of suppliers. This article will help you understand the warning signs of someone producing methamphetamine in your area.

To view the complete article click here:
http://www.kdheks.gov/methwatch/#precursors

Different Types of Addictions

2009-04-06T09:29:00.007-05:00

There are many different types of addictions. Some people may not think that they have an addiction but here are the ten most common type of addictions that you may or may not know about.

To view the complete article click here:
http://brainz.org/10-most-common-addictions/

Things you didn't know about secondhand smoke.

2009-03-24T12:29:00.009-05:00

We all have a right to clean air some people however do not get to have that right. Clean air is something that some people do not take for granted but here are some of the effects that secondhand smoke can cause.

To view the complete article click here:
http://www.beverlyfund.org/Secondhandsmoke.html

Signs of Alcohol Poisoning.

2009-03-24T12:04:00.009-05:00

Some people may not know the signs of alcohol poisoning however, this article will help someone get a better understanding of what to look for in alcohol poisoning. People should always remember if they are in doubt then there is nothing wrong with dialing for help if they hesitate it could cost a life.

To view the complete article click here:
http://www.cnn.com/HEALTH/library/alcohol-poisoning/DS00861.html

What is the most commonly used illicit drug?

2009-03-12T14:34:00.007-05:00

If you guessed marijuana then you are correct. People may not think that marijuana may harm them because some see it as an "herb" this however is not the case. Marijuana can cause just as much harm as any other illicit drug.

To read the complete article click here:
http://www.whitehousedrugpolicy.gov/DrugFact/marijuana/marijuana_ff.html

Gender Relapse

2009-02-24T09:49:00.010-06:00

People always think that gender does not matter but, gender does matter to relapse. Some people think that once a person is out of treatment they are can live a normal life this however, is not the case when relapse can be around the coroner. Read the article to see which gender is the most successful at preventing relapse.

To view the complete articles :
http://www.drugabuse.gov/nida_notes/NNVol13N4/Relapse.html

Steroid Addiction

2009-02-19T15:27:00.007-06:00

Some drugs have a street reputation of not being addictive. But substances can be addictive in different ways. Anabolic steroids have been featured in the news lately, and new research sheds light on their addictive nature.

To read the complete article click here:
http://www.nida.nih.gov/ResearchReports/Steroids/anabolicsteroids5.html

Drugged driving a new risk.

2009-02-10T13:50:00.006-06:00

A new hazard to traffic safety is drugged driving. It has come up in recent years that now people are not only drinking and driving but they are taking illicit drugs and driving. It is important to understand that drugged driving is just as dangerous as drinking and driving. A person still goes through impaired reaction time, perception, and coordination as if they would be if they were intoxicated.

To read the complete article click here:
http://www.nida.nih.gov/Infofacts/driving.html

The Science of Addiction

2009-01-29T09:54:00.008-06:00

Addiction can be a hard issue to understand. Some people do not know how the addiction can take over an individuals life in everything that they do. This article will help you understand the scientific perspective of addiction from its begining stages of addiction to its treatment.

To read the complete article click here:
http://www.nida.nih.gov/scienceofaddiction/

Does Your Teenage Daughter Shop at Claire's?

2009-01-28T10:31:00.014-06:00

Retail store Icing by Claire’s which has 3,000 stores in the US and Europe, now sells flasks with charming, girlish designs. These stores where its sales target girls 17 and under glamorize underage drinking with cute flasks. Labesls specify that flasks are designed to carry alcoholic drinks and they should not be used for juice.

To read the complete article click here: http://www.jointogether.org/news/headlines/inthenews/2009/advocates-call-on-tween.html

More Evidence That a Lower Drinking Age Won't Solve Binge Drinking

2008-12-22T09:46:00.003-06:00

Binge drinking is a phenomenon that knows no national borders. Although proponents of lowering the drinking age often cite Europe's relaxed laws around youth and alcohol as an example of how to teach kids to drink "responsibly," new evidence shows that when it comes to teens, there is no responsible drinking.

French hospitals report a dramatic increase in alcohol-related admissions to their emergency departments. One addiction specialist attributes the rise in binge drinking to the breakdown of family supervision and the ever-lower ages of initiation into drinking, with kids as young as 13 gathering to binge drink.

Find the complete article at:

http://www.jointogether.org/news/headlines/inthenews/2008/french-youths-pick-up-bad.html

Do You Really Need Another Reason to Drive Sober?

2008-12-01T14:38:00.003-06:00

If so...check out the DUI Foundation's new website (http://www.duifoundation.org/). You'll find a wealth of information covering health issues, legal information, and the most current news on impaired driving.

We wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season. Remember that a single drunk driving accident can have permanent and deadly consequences.

Is Your Teen Tricking You? Here are 5 Tricks and Tips Just for Parents!

2008-11-11T08:41:00.002-06:00

Teens use many tried and true methods of getting around rules and hiding things they know parents disapprove of. Check out this article for 5 common tricks and advice for parents on how to anticipate them before the fact:

http://www.timetotalk.org/Downloads/ttt_halloween_tool_final.pdf?utm_source=ttt_eBlast&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Halloween_Alert_Oct2008&tr=y&auid=4166534

Remember, kids who are not monitored are four times more likely to use drugs than kids who are.

Celebrate National Teen Driver Safety Week with a Game!

2008-10-20T13:00:00.002-05:00

Drug Free Communities Program Reduces Teen Substance Use

2008-09-26T12:50:00.001-05:00

(Taken from Join Together)

A new report from the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) says that alcohol, tobacco and other drug use rates were lower than national averages in cities and towns with coalitions funded by the Drug Free Communities (DFC) program.

Annual youth marijuana, alcohol and tobacco use in DFC communities was 9.9 percent, 23.3 percent, and 10 percent lower, respectively, than the national average for use of these substances. Trends in current use among DFC communities were compared with national data from the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System.

The report also found that youth drug use declined more rapidly in communities with DFC coalitions than the national average.

The 769 DFC coalitions are made of community leaders, parents, youth, teachers, religious and fraternal organizations, health care and business professionals, law enforcement and the media. The DFC program provides grants of up to $625,000 over five years to community organizations that facilitate citizen participation in local drug-prevention efforts.

Do U know how 2 txt? IDK either! Learn how to talk to your teens:

2008-09-10T10:20:00.007-05:00

(Taken from Partnership for a Drug-Free America's www.timetotalk.org)

Back-to-school is a stressful time for teens, and new research from the Partnership shows the top reason teens use drugs is to cope with school pressures. Take every opportunity to talk to your teen, and help them manage stress in a healthy way. Text messaging is a great way to send a quick reminder of your support at back to school—or anytime. All thumbs when it comes to texting? We can get you started.

Find the complete Time to Text guide on the DCCCA website:

http://www.dccca.org/documents/ttt_time_to_text.pdf

Why 21?

2008-08-21T09:25:00.011-05:00

A spate of recent articles in The Lawrence Journal World have sparked heated discussion throughout the state of Kansas and nationwide. More than 100 colleges have come together under the umbrella of the Amethyst Initiative to suggest a dialogue on lowering the minimum drinking age from 21 to 18.

We commend KU for not joining the Amethyst Initiative. There is no evidence that lowering the drinking age will reduce binge drinking or other risky behaviours. In fact, the minimum 21 drinking age law has been heralded as one of the most effective public safety laws ever passed. It is also one of the nation's most examined laws, with countless studies that have been conducted to measure the law's effectiveness--all of which have come to the same conclusion: this law saves lives.

Alcohol-related fatalities and injuries have decreased, saving 900 lives per year as estimated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 17,000 Americans are alive and well today thanks to the adoption of this law by all states in 1988--that's more than enough to pack Allen Fieldhouse to the rafters. Youth drinking rates have also declined since 1988. Binge drinking has decreased 15% among high school seniors. A look at all the research between 1960 and 2000 shows that the minimum 21 drinking age laws decrease underage consumption of alcohol.

For a complete fact sheet on "Why 21" please visit our DCCCA website. History of the law, research and statistics, and responses to many common objections to the law (i.e. age of military service) are included.

For Journal-World articles visit:

http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2008/aug/20/ku_abstains_effort_lower_drinking_age/
http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2008/aug/19/should_drinking_age_be_lower/

What's the Number One Reason Teens Use Drugs?

2008-08-07T11:38:00.006-05:00

Stress. According to new data released by the Partnership for a Drug-Free America, stress has overtaken 'to feel cool' and 'to have fun' as the top reason teens say they use drugs. Although overall teen drug use is declining, prescription drug abuse is rising at an allarming rate. Up to 1 in 5 teens has abused a prescription medication, and 41% think it is safer to abuse a prescription drug than an illegal drug.

If you're concerned about how stress in your child's life, please attend Parents University in Troy on August 25th. Experts in youth development will be speaking on the topic of kids and stress.

For more information about the 2007 PDFA survey results visit their website at:

www.drugfree.org

Teen Marijuana Use in Douglas County Exceeds State Rates

2008-07-28T09:17:00.003-05:00

Substance abuse among youth is a growing concern in Douglas County. Read more about the issues we face, and the latest efforts to treat teens who have already started abusing drugs and alcohol:

http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2008/jul/28/substance_abuse_growing_concern/

Free University!

2008-07-25T10:07:00.004-05:00

The Doniphan County Interagency Coaltion is proud to announce its second annual Parents University. This free event open to parents, grandparents, and professionals will be held August 25th at Troy Elementary School from 6:00-8:30 p.m. Please join us for an evening devoted to learning more about kids and stress. Free child care and dinner will be provided, as well as door prizes including gas cards. For more details see the PU Flyer, link below:

http://www.dccca.org/documents/DoniphanCoParentsUniversity.PDF

Take Action Against Beer Ads in the NCAA

2008-07-25T10:00:00.003-05:00

Taken from the Center for Science in the Public Interest's Take Action website:

Since 2005, 348 institutions of higher education — including Arizona State, Ohio State, Texas Tech, and the Universities of Florida, Minnesota, and Nebraska — and 16 athletic conferences have endorsed the Campaign for Alcohol-Free Sports TV’s “College Commitment” pledge to work toward eliminating beer advertising during televised college sports.

That pledge essentially asks that the NCAA live up to the intent of its own policies on advertising. The NCAA’s advertising and promotional standards on their face plainly “exclude those advertisements and advertisers...that do not appear to be in the best interests of higher education and student-athletes.” NCAA advertising rules specifically prohibit ads for cigarettes, other tobacco products, organizations promoting gambling, and alcoholic beverages, yet they permit ads for beverages with alcohol content of 6% or less (beer)!

Please take a moment to send a quick message to NCAA President Myles Brand urging the Association to take a leadership role to remove all alcohol advertising from televised NCAA sporting contests. This action would support college administrators’ efforts to help reduce alcohol-related problems, send a consistent message to college students and other young people about the impact of underage and excessive drinking on their health and well-being, and conform to general NCAA advertising policies.

http://takeaction.cspinet.org/campaign/attn_myles_brand

Make a Dinner Date with Your Daughter

2008-07-24T15:15:00.003-05:00

A new study released by the University of Minnesota finds that middle-school girls who eat with their families at least five times a week are much less likely to use alcohol, tobacco or marijuana five years later. Even girls who reported they had a less-than-perfect relationship with their parents were half as likely to engage in substance abuse if they had a regular family meal.

For tips and tools on how to engage your kids around the table:

http://casafamilyday.org/familyday/
http://www.kansasfamily.com/GetInvolved-FamilyDay.cfm

For a full article summary please visit:

http://www.jointogether.org/news/research/summaries/2008/family-meals-have-greater.html

Join Us at the Atchison County Fair!

2008-07-16T08:36:00.005-05:00

July 22-25 the Atchison County Dream Team will be at the Atchison County Fair in Effingham, in the big blue building. Stop by our booth for great giveaways from the prevention center including hypercolor pencils and cups! Learn more about what the Dream Team is doing in Atchison and get to know some of our members.

For more information about the fair please visit:

http://www.atchisoncountyfair.com/

KU Strikes Down Beer & Bowling

2008-07-08T14:18:00.004-05:00

Provost Richard Lariviere rejected a student proposal that would have allowed those 21-and-over to consume beer at Jaybowl in the Kansas Union. Several factors influenced this decision, including the small minority of Big 12 schools that serve beer in their unions, the many under-21 groups that hold events at Jaybowl, and the ultimate purpose of the university as an educational institution.

The Lawrence-Journal World tells the story of how the university banned union alcohol sales after the 1998 death of KU student Lisa Rosel:

http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2008/jul/07/ku_rejects_proposal_beer_sales_union/

Raising Legal Drinking Age Decreases Teen Fatalities

2008-07-07T09:32:00.009-05:00

The latest study releast from the Pacific Institue for Research and Evaluation determined that increasing the legal drinking age to 21 has resulted in an 11% decrease in the number of teens involved in alcohol related traffic fatalities over the last two decades. Find out more at:

http://www.reutershealth.com/archive/2008/07/01/eline/links/20080701elin003.html

Help Break the Tradition

2008-07-03T08:41:00.002-05:00

Wednesday, July 9th the first official meeting of Douglas County's Break the Tradition Coalition will be held at DCCCA. Bring a brown bag lunch at 11:30 and enjoy Heidi Garcia's presentation of the latest ATOD (Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug) data from the University of Kansas.

WHO Wants Clean Air?

2008-07-02T09:30:00.003-05:00

New findings from the World Health Organization (WHO) show that clean indoor air ordinances lead to significant reductions in hospital admissions for heart disease, effectively encourage smokers to quit, and protect non-smokers and children from second-hand smoke. The WHO challenges more countries to adopt smoking bans in workplaces, bars, and restaurants:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20080630/hl_nm/smoking_bans_dc_1

The Secret High in Your House

2008-07-01T11:18:00.004-05:00

Do your kids go to pharming parties? Text their friends about sharing pilz or trail mix?

If this sounds like a foreign language, it's time to uncover the secret source of a popular high--your medicine cabinet.

Many teens mistakenly believe abusing prescription drugs is safer than using street drugs.

The Partnership for a Drug-Free America launched a new site aimed at informing parents about prescription drug abuse, slang around this drug culture, tips on how to talk to teens about prescription drug safety, and encouraging us to carefully monitor and inventory all prescriptions in our homes. Learn more at:

http://www.drugfree.org/notinmyhouse/experts.aspx

What Everyone Should Know About Teen Smoking

2008-06-30T14:12:00.004-05:00

The Center for Disease Control & Prevention's latest research shows the teen smoking rate held steady between 2003 and 2007, at 22%, after a decline of 14% from 1997 to 2003. Officials cite a lack of state spending on prevention as the primary culprit in this leveling-off of the 30-day past use rate. Read more at:

http://in.reuters.com/article/health/idINN2633099820080626

Find Evidence-Based Strategies for Your Community!

2008-06-27T15:19:00.006-05:00

Helping America's Youth (HAY) is First Lady Laura Bush's initiative aimed at raising awareness about the challenges facing young people, and connecting caring adults with youth in the areas of family, school, and community. The HAY website provides a program tool designed to help coalitions address the risk and protective factors in their own communities with evidence-based programs. Find your risk and protective factors at:

http://guide.helpingamericasyouth.gov/programtool.cfm

Teen Drinkers Get Alcohol From Adults

2008-06-27T13:16:00.007-05:00

Over half of America's teens are using alcohol, and 40% of those are getting it from adults for free, according to the latest federal research:

http://abcnews.go.com/Health/Healthday/story?id=5256437&page=1

Grammy-Winning Singer Has Emphysema

2008-06-23T15:07:00.005-05:00

Singer Amy Winehouse was diagnosed with severe lung damage and diminished lung capacity, says the Associated Press: 'Winehouse damaged her lungs by smoking crack cocaine and cigarettes, her father said in an interview published Sunday. The Sunday Mirror quoted Mitch Winehouse as saying that Amy has an early stage emphysema and an irregular heartbeat, and has been warned that she will have to wear an oxygen mask unless she stops smoking drugs. "The doctors have told her if she goes back to smoking drugs, it won't just ruin her voice, it will kill her," Mitch Winehouse was quoted as saying.'

Winehouse is only 24 years old.

OTC Drug Abuse: A New Epidemic

2008-06-18T15:19:00.009-05:00

The internet has made it easier for teens to find out how to use and get drugs. The latest group of substances in this trend are legal, cheap, and easily accessible to teens. DXM (also known as "skittles," "robo," "triple c's," and "red devils") is an ingredient in several over-the-counter cough and cold medicines. Abuse can lead to hallucinations, dizzyness and nausea, and eventually liver and brain damage or even death. Read more on OTC drug abuse:

For teens: http://www.freevibe.com/Drug_Facts/prescription_OTC_full_article.asp

For parents: http://www.teendrugabuse.us/over_the_counter_drug_abuse.html

For all: http://www.theantidrug.com/DRUG_INFO/drug_info_dxm.asp
http://www.drugfree.org/General/Articles/Article.aspx?id=6e2a1230-8fef-4e8d-8b1c-883589a9548f&IsPreviewMode=true&UVer=f29e4571-96d6-4528-98ff-08c58a5a98f2

THC Levels in Marijuana Reach Record Highs

2008-06-18T14:47:00.001-05:00

A report released this month by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) shows the percentage of THC in marijuana has nearly doubled in the last 25 years, from less than 4% in 1983 to 9.6% today:

http://pushingback.com/blogs/pushing_back/archive/2008/06/12/41793.aspx

Where will our next president stand on prevention?

2008-06-18T14:26:00.001-05:00

See where Obama and McCain's positions on drug policy fall, from their records in the senate to their personal histories:

http://www.jointogether.org/news/features/2008/obama-and-mccain-where-they.html

Did you know?

2008-06-16T15:44:00.001-05:00

If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact your local law enforcement. Many States and local jurisdictions have cellular reporting programs to aid drivers in the reporting of impaired drivers and Kansas is one of them.

When the caller dials 911, *47 (for Highway Patrol), or *KTA (KTA = Kansas Turnpike Authority), a dispatcher at the local 911 center receives the call and dispatches the information to units in the area or to the appropriate local authority that has jurisdiction.

Phone numbers to be used: In Salina, *47 is used. In Wichita, *KTA is used. 911 can be used by any caller

Don't let July 4 blow up in your face!

2008-06-16T15:36:00.001-05:00

Alcohol is a major factor in crashes during the July 4 holiday. In 2006, 27 percent of all drivers involved in traffic crashes during this holiday time (June 30 - July 5) registered a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher. During that same period, there were 659 traffic-related fatalities. Out of that number, 37 percent involved a driver or motorcyclist with a BAC of .08 or higher. Don't let fun for one evening destroy the many celebrations to come. Always designate a sober driver before you decide to drink, and check out the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Fourth of July Impaired Driving Prevention Planner @ http://www.nhtsa.gov/planners/July2008/index.cfm

New Staff Member

2008-05-30T14:02:00.000-05:00

Kelli Flanner recently joined the RPC staff. She previously worked for DCCCA Evaluation Services.

Who we are

2008-05-30T14:01:00.002-05:00

The RPC acts as a catalyst to reinforce messages that promote positive behaviors for youth and adults and to encourage all individuals to lead a healthy and productive life. Efforts are concentrated in drawing together all community resources to combat substance abuse, teen pregnancy, violence, juvenile delinquency and school drop-out.

Just gettin' started!

2008-05-16T11:14:00.000-05:00

This is the blogspot for the Regional Prevention Center of East Central Kansas. We are a program of DCCCA, Inc. Please check out this page for future updates!