Pubdate: Thu, 8 Jun 2000 Source: Airdrie Echo (CN AB) Date: June 7, 2000 Website: http://www.bowesnet.com/airdrieecho/ Address: 112 First Ave. NE, PO Box 3820, Airdrie, Alberta T4B-2B9 Telephone: (403) 948-7280 Fax: (403) 233-7226 Contact: Paul Wells AIRDRIE IS NOT IMMUNE TO RAVE WAVE Chances Are That Such Drugs As Ecstasy Are Available In The City Although Airdrie may be void of rave-type youth gatherings, rave-associated drugs such as ecstasy have likely made their way to the city, says a spokesperson for the Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission (AADAC). "Raves aren't the only place where ecstasy is available or being used," Nancy Snowball said. "Our people at youth services are hearing more from kids who come in for treatment who say that ecstasy is one of the drugs they're using." Ecstasy is a hallucinogen related to amphetamines. It is made in drug labs and usually comes in the form of gelatin capsules or small tablets of any colour. In some instances, use of the drug has caused death, but more likely side effects include jaw clenching, teeth grinding, anxiety or panic attacks, vomiting and increased blood pressure and heart rate. Users of ecstasy maintain the drug makes people feel mildly intoxicated, relaxed and energetic. Although quick to point out that Airdrie parents shouldn't panic, Snowball said that the city's close proximity to Calgary would make it unlikely that components of the rave culture haven't gravitated toward the city. "I think definitely, if you live in Airdrie and your child has a way to get to Calgary, there's a chance they could end up at a rave or have access to such drugs as ecstasy," Snowball said. A local youth interviewed by the Echo but who asked not to be identified concurred with Snowball's views. "What's available in Calgary can always be found here," said the 17-year-old. Alberta Children's Services Minister Iris Evans is currently mounting a campaign to address the issue of illicit drug use - especially ecstasy - by some Alberta youth. "No one wants to stop young people from having a good time," Evans said. "The problem is that some young people - and perhaps even some parents - believe that ecstasy is a fun, recreational drug. In fact, it's potentially lethal and there's growing evidence that even light weekend use may be harmful." For more information on such drugs as ecstasy, contact AADAC youth services at 297-4664. - --- MAP posted-by: Keith Brilhart