Pubdate: [Thu, 05 Dec 1996] Source: Nassau Herald Lawrence (NY) Author: Douglas Greene To the Editor: Shame on both the South Shore Record and Nassau Herald for their hysterical, sensationalistic coverage of teen attendance at rave parties. Both articles missed the real story; the vast majority of teen drug abuse involves alcohol and tobacco right here in the Five Towns, not exotic drugs in the demonized haunts of New York City. These articles mention every illicit drug under the sun. But given that the most popular activity at raves is dancing, I rather doubt that depressants like heroin and Rohypnol are widely used. These stories serve to mystify and entice our teenagers, much like the propaganda of the Partnership for a DrugÒFree America. Mr. Snyder's piece in the South Shore Record never tells us how many teenagers he spoke to had actually attended a rave. Instead, he asks them if they'd be interested in going to a party with open sex and drugs and rock În' roll. These stories have done a far better job of publicizing the rave scene than any promoter could have. Unfortunately, they do so by focusing solely on negative behaviors. The real question that faces our community is this: How can we make sure our teens don't get into trouble at raves? We need to demonstrate and teach harm reduction principles to our teens, and make sure they are implemented at raves, including: Making condoms and information about their proper use available. Discouraging the wearing of hats and other garments (i.e., vinyl) that might cause overheating. Making a large supply of fresh water and other nonÒalcoholic beverages available. Providing honest, accurate information about drugs through literature tables. Testing substances (especially MDMA, a.k.a. "Ecstasy") for purity and contaminants. These may sound like radical measures, but the Europeans have found them to be just good common sense. Denying and lying about drugs and drug use has only confused our teens. For example, the San Francisco AIDS Foundation and the HaightÒAshbury Free Clinics have produced a set of flyers (in the style of rave invitations). They advise readers to be sure of their source of Ecstasy, to use small amounts, to be well rested, to drink plenty of fluids and to avoid alcohol. I'd like to work on the above measures for the Thanksgiving weekend rave. Interested parties may contact me via E-mail at or AOL screen name: Dougl28027 Sincerely, Douglas Greene