Do you know what Oxycontin looks like? I do now. There's imprints on the pills of stars, hearts, Snoopy, etc. that make it appear cool and fun. Did you know that marijuana is five times stronger than 20 years ago? Didn't know that either. I considered myself a well-informed, in-the-know kind of parent. But I didn't know about the current drugs and how quickly addictive and powerful they are.

I am compelled to write today after attending the drug-and-alcohol-education program last night at the Marblehead High School along with other parents of teens. It was a joint program coordinated by Paula Dobrow, Libby Moore, Judy Luise and other caring professionals in our school system. Some smart parents brought their children with them to hear the message. Sgt. Marion Keating and Police Chief James Carney also attended the forum.

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