Pubdate: Mon, 27 Mar 2006
Source: Richmond Times-Dispatch (VA)
Copyright: 2006 Richmond Newspapers Inc.
Contact:  http://www.timesdispatch.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/365
Author: Holly Prestidge, TIMES-DISPATCH STAFF WRITER,

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