Wishing All a Happy New Year!

Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration suggests that, nationally, alcohol-related traffic fatalities on New Year’s Eve are down. Regardless, there will be plenty of individuals who determine that it is necessary for them to get behind the wheel of an automobile while intoxicated. With this in mind, we at the Drug Free Coalition of Hall County wish you all a safe and happy new year! Be well!

Parent Forums – Youth Substance Abuse in Hall County

In an effort to acknowledge, raise awareness, and mobilize a community response to the dangers of alcohol and other drug abuse among youth in the county, the Hall County Schools and Gainesville City Schools systems, and the Drug Free Coalition of Hall County are sponsoring two parent forums.

The forums are open to the public and will provide an opportunity for parents to ask questions of concern to members of a panel.  The panels will be comprised of representatives from the Judicial System, Mental Health / Treatment Services, Recovery Community, School Administration, Faith Community, School Counseling, Law Enforcement, and Youth.  Retired Juvenile Court Judge John Girardeau will facilitate both forums.

Find out how drugs are impacting the youthful user, their families, and friends.  Identify ways we, as responsible adults, can deter Hall County’s youth from substance abuse and alcohol.

Tuesday, January 19th, 2010 – 6:30 to 8:00 PM
Gainesville College & State University – Continuing Education Building /Auditorium

Thursday, January 21st, 2010 – 6:30 to 8:00 PM
Gainesville High School – Performing Arts Center

Any persons or organizations wanting more information should contact the Drug Free Coalition of Hall County by phone at 770-534-1080 x 277 or email at jpbanks@faceitpeople.org.

Download the official flyer here.  Spread the word!

Smoking Skunk Raises Risk of Psychosis, Study Finds

[From ABC News] A new study out of London finds that those who smoke “skunk” (a more potent form of cannabis) are nearly seven times more likely to develop psychotic illnesses than those who smoke “hash.” To read more, click here.