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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
18 Trinity Place Contact: Jim Ver Steeg, Exec. Dir.
Buffalo, New York 14201
(716) 852-PRIDE (7743)
(cell)
www.
News Release
PRIDE CENTER SET TO LAUNCH CRYSTAL METH CAMPAIGN, “CRYSTAL CLEAR”
Buffalo, NY, January 19, 2005 - - It is estimated that nearly half of
all new HIV infections in the US are directly related to the use of
crystal methamphetamine, better known as crystal meth, “tina,” “speed,”
or “crank” to the ever-emerging score of party-goers across the country.
Using a harm reduction approach proven successful in larger cities like
San Francisco and New York, the Pride Center has designed its Crystal
Clear campaign around prevention and risk management associated with the
drug’s use. Known primarily for lowering inhibitions and increasing
sexual stamina, crystal meth has seen growing popularity in many cities,
including Buffalo.
“In our recent online survey,” said Jim Ver Steeg, executive director of
the Pride Center of Western New York, “Over 40 percent of respondents
said they use some type of illegal drug while they’re out, including
significant use of crystal meth.” The survey, along with recent arrests
and media coverage of drug sting operations, reveal the dangerous drug
is already a dominant presence in Western New York.
The Pride Center will officially launch the Crystal Clear campaign with
a news conference on Friday, February 4th at 3:00PM. Joining the launch
will be the Pride Center’s community partners in the campaign, including
the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, Rural/Metro Medical Services, AIDS
Community Services and many others.
“Our community partners in this campaign make it clear that this is not
a ‘gay problem,’ but rather an important health issue for everyone in
Western New York,” said Ver Steeg. “Since it’s not just drug use we’re
talking about, but a marked increase in HIV infection rates, we need to
educate the gay community about the dangers associated with crystal meth.”
For all its euphoric highs, crystal methamphetamine also causes serious
side effects including: permanent damage to the nervous system,
convulsions and strokes, heart attacks, mental psychosis, and death.
Proven more effective than simple prevention campaigns, Crystal Clear
will educate the community not only on the dangers of using the drug,
but also on important harm reduction techniques for those who choose to
be on it. Some of the more common harm reduction advice includes use of
condoms, drinking plenty of water to avoid dehydration, and avoiding
binges by giving a trusted friend your available cash and ATM card.
The Pride Center will also establish with its community partners a
comprehensive referral system to help answer questions about crystal
meth; connect users and loved ones with medical and counseling services;
and provide much needed information on how to stay safe if you are using
or around others who have chosen to use it.
Highlights of the Crystal Clear campaign will include the February 4th
launch, bar and night club outreach, and informational materials
available through various publications and on the Center’s website at
www..
Further information about this important campaign will be forthcoming.
In the meantime, please feel free to contact the Pride Center with any
questions.
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