News Details - Drug Trends Forum April 26. Underage Drinking Letters Sent to Parents of Seniors Countywide

Bath Salts. They are the latest synthetic drug to sweep New York state leaving horror stories and the bodies of dead teenagers behind.

These are not the bath salts you buy at a retail chain for bath and bedding products, it is a name given to a dangerous cocktail of powered chemicals which are sold legally (for now) at head shops and gas stations.

Bath salts, along with synthetic marijuana, and the abuse of prescription drugs are killing people in Tompkins County. Rehabilitation centers report a dramatic increase in the number of people seeking help with their addicition to these substances.

The community is invited to a forum: "Drug Trends: What Teens and Families Need to Know", this Thursday, April 26, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Ithaca High School's Kulp Auditorium.

A panel presentation and breakout sessions with legal and medical experts, and emotional stories from young adults in treatment are part of this potentially life-saving event. The forum is sponsored by Ithaca City School District, BOCES, Alcohol & Drug Council, CARS (Cayuga Addiction Recovery Services, Cayuga Medical Center, the Tompkins County District Atorney's office, the Ithaca Police Department and the Community Coalition for Healthy Youth. There is no charge for admission and everyone is welcome to attend.

The Community Coalition for Healthy Youth, along with District Attorney Gwen Wilkinson, Youth Services, and area high schools are also sending out letters this month to the parents of the Class of 2012. The letter reminds parents. it is against the law to serve alcohol to anyone under 21. A parent can face criminal charges for letting their own child drink in their home, even with adult supervision.

Tompkins County has a "zero-tolerance" policy when it comes to underage drinking, and parents are encouraged to use the letter to discuss the dangers of drinking and drugging with their kids.

Parents who want more information can find links on how to discuss this important issue with their children at www.healthyyouth.org.

04-25-2012