Stay Vigilant for Cannabis (Marijuana) Intoxication

 

We've all heard the safety warnings to keep prescription medication stored in high cabinets or in locked drawers when not in use, but it is just as important to keep over the counter medicine and all forms of cannabis, medical or recreational, out of the reach of children and family pets.

Marijuana or cannabis refers to the dried parts of the Cannabis plant. Cannabis has been used since 500 B.C. as an herbal medicine as well as for products such as rope, textiles, and paper. Today, cannabis is primarily used for medicinal or recreational purposes. It may be smoked like a cigarette, inhaled via vaping, or ingested via food and drink.

Cannabis contains more than 100 different chemicals or compounds called Cannabinoids. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the cannabinoid with the most psychoactive effects. It is also the compound responsible for cannabis' medicinal uses to treat nausea or improve appetite in cancer patients. Other compounds, such as cannabidiol (CBD) have shown promise for medicinal use and do not have psychoactive effects.

Marijuana can be found in cookies, brownies, soft drinks, and candy - products that do not have warning labels to remind adults to keep these medicines out of reach.

Legal or illegal, the increased accessibility to marijuana has led to to increases in accidental exposure. Researchers have reported an increase in the number of children brought into the emergency room after swallowing medicinal marijuana products. Most common symptoms include excessive sleepiness, dizziness, and trouble walking, but there is a danger that children can become too sleepy and decreased breathing may reduce oxygen levels. In case of accidental exposure, it is important to call 911, Poison Control 1-800-222-1222, or go immediately to the closest emergency room. 

Pets can also be at risk for accidental exposure. Cats and dogs can become intoxicated by inhaling second-hand smoke, eating edibles, or ingesting cannabis in any form. Dogs have more cannabinoid receptors in their brains which means effects can potentially be more toxic for them than for humans. Signs of intoxication for pets may include incoordination, hyperactivity, disorientation, or vocalization. They may drool or vomit, and in severe cases, experience tremors, seizures, or slip into a coma. If you notice suspicious behavior in your cat or dog and cannabis or other drug exposure is a possibility, take your pet to a veterinarian or to the nearest emergency vet hospital for treatment.

Take care and stay vigilant 💊
Keep all drugs safely out of reach of children and pets!

Free Back to School Event - Monday July 31 at Florida Children's Museum

 

Get ready for Back to School with FREE admission to the Florida Children's Museum on Monday, July 31, from 10am - 5pm. Lots of fun hands-on learning including a special weather activity! Visit 600 Bonnet Springs Blvd. in Lakeland. 

Lessons to Learn in Summer 2023

 

There's a few weeks left of Summer break before back to school - still time to savor special moments of the season!🌞 Thanks to our friends @Positively Present for offering some great reminders of how we can take it slow and make the most of every wonderful summer second!😎

Formal Wear Donations Needed for Project Prom & Project Homecoming

 

Prom and Homecoming are memorable milestones but unfortunately the expenses associated with these special events could make attending prom or homecoming out of reach for some teens. Student leaders from UthMpact, the teen coalition for a Drug Free Polk, have led the local Project Prom and Project Homecoming effort for the past 11 years to provide formal wear and accessories to deserving high school students and educate youth and parents about risky behaviors that may occur during prom and homecoming season.

Student Shopping Days are held each spring and fall at the Project Prom Store at Lakeland Square Mall, 3800 U.S. Highway 98 North in Lakeland. Students with a Polk County School ID can sign a pledge to celebrate alcohol and drug-free and receive their dresses and suits for FREE! Over 5,500 prom ensembles have been provided at no cost to young women and men in Polk County since 2013.

How Can You Help? We invite individuals, clubs, and community organizations to support the Project Prom and Project Homecoming efforts for local students in need by hosting a Formal Wear Drive to collect gently used dresses, shoes, men’s suits, and accessories (purses, jewelry, ties, etc.). Especially needed are ladies plus size dresses (size 18+) and smaller size dresses (size 0-4), along with men’s wear in smaller sizes.

Donations may be dropped off at the InnerAct Alliance office at 621 South Florida Avenue in Lakeland (open 8:30 am-4:30 pm, Monday-Thursday). Formal wear and accessories donated will be shared at the Project Prom and Project Homecoming shopping events for teens in our community who may not otherwise be able to afford a new outfit to wear. 

For information, please visit our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ProjectPromofPolk/, click www.uthmpact.org, www.projectprompolk.com, or call our office at (863) 802-0777. 

Back to School Bash hosted by Polk Sheriff’s Charities Tomorrow July 22

 

It may be 95+ degrees outside but the countdown to back to school is underway – here’s a great opportunity to outfit the kids with a new book bag and supplies!

Head to the 2023 Back to School Bash, sponsored by the Polk Sheriff’s Charities, this Saturday, July 22, from 10am to 1pm, at Bartow Ford, 2800 US 98, in Bartow.

1,000 backpacks filled with school supplies will be given out free – children must be present to receive the supplies.📓✐

Fun activities including face painting, a balloon artist, food truck, and games will provide entertainment for the whole family. 🎈

While you’re there, say 👋Hi to Amy, Gavin, and Cindy from InnerAct Alliance – we look forward to seeing you!

Hot Tips for Staying Active in Summer Heat

 

Don’t let the summer heat melt your motivation! This time of year offers great opportunities to be active and enjoy warm weather and sunshine. Outdoor exercise is beneficial for your heart, muscles, and bones…and it’s also good for your mind and spirit.

Extra care should be taken since high temperatures can put extra strain on your body and heart. It can cause you to sweat more and breathe heavier. But there are lots of creative ways to stay active and safe outdoors. Whether at the beach, exploring nature trails, or your favorite outdoor activities, here are some hot tips to help you look and keep cool!

Dress for the weather – Clothing can make a difference to help you beat the summer heat. Choose lightweight fabrics that wick moisture away from your skin. Don’t forget a head covering – maybe a hat made from a breathable material or a visor to keep the sun off your face. Consider a portable battery-operated fan that attaches to the brim of a hat/visor or can be hung around your neck.

Seek shade – Summer is a great time to explore local parks. Many offer shaded nature walks, bike paths, and trails that are cooler and provide protection from the hot sun. Morning and late evening hours are the best times to enjoy the outdoors and avoid the heat of the day.

Scale back a bit – When summer heat is at its highest, scale back on strenuous activities or training. Opt for shorter bouts of outdoor exercise and strive for consistency rather than intensity.

Stay hydrated – Keep your water bottle filled and sip as you work throughout the day. Aim to drink 8-12 ounces of fluids every 20 minutes while exercising. Add zing to your water with a bit of lemon, lime, or other fruit juices to liven up the flavor.

Remember to apply sunscreen and enjoy having fun staying active this summer!

Free or Low Cost Ways to Self-Care During July

 

Mindfulness Journaling for Teens Event this Friday, July 21

 

InnerAct Alliance is proud to partner with the Polk County Library Cooperative and the Davenport Historical Society to host a special Mindfulness Journaling for Teens event on Friday, July 21, at 1:00 pm, at the Peter Rust Civic Center, located at 5 South Allapaha Avenue in Davenport, FL.

Journaling can provide a wide range of healthful benefits from easing stress to sparking self-discovery. This free program, presented by InnerAct Alliance’s Michelle Bachmeier, offers youth ages 13-17 an opportunity to learn about journaling and how it can be used as a positive tool to express themselves.

Participating teens will learn mindful practices and coping skills to deal with everyday stress and support good mental health. Polk Library Cooperative’s Outreach Services Librarian, Jennifer Kovac, shared, “Attendees will be encouraged to reflect and think about who they are, what their interests are, and what they value most in life.”

Journals handcrafted by the FSS CrossRoads Stitchers will be provided and teens will create friendship bracelets for themselves and a friend. Light refreshments will be served. Please contact the Polk County Library Cooperative at (863) 519-7958 for more information.

DEA Warns of New Narcotic Hitting Streets in Northern Florida

 

The Drug Enforcement Administration is issuing a warning about the latest drug that has made its way to the streets of Northeast Florida. The drug, called N, N-Dimethylpentylone Hydrochloride, is categorized as a cathinone - a natural stimulant that comes from a plant. However, this strain of cathinone is a synthetic mixture containing many dangerous chemicals.

Synthetic cathinone is often sold as cocaine or similar drugs. Users cut the chunk into powders to snort, smoke, or inject.

According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection authorities, a shipment of this narcotic has arrived in the U.S. from China listed as "beauty products." WJXT-TV in northern Florida reports that this new synthetic cathinone has recently been found in Jacksonville-area bars and nightclubs.

As the saying goes "forewarned is forearmed" - staying informed is one of our best strategies for informing and educating ourselves and keeping our children safe! 

InnerAct Alliance Partnership with Local Author Ciara Bates

 

InnerAct Alliance's Humane Education program is excited to partner with local author, Ciara Bates, a mental health advocate and Polk County School graduate who is passionate about writing books to encourage children's imagination. Her new storybook, A Simple Act of Kindness, teaches children ages 2-6 about the powerful ripple effects of a single act of compassion. 

Stay tuned for a special announcement soon about upcoming dates at which Ms. Bates will join InnerAct Alliance's Michelle Bachmeier to feature A Simple Act of Kindness as part of our agency's compassion and empathy lessons available to Pre-K and Elementary-age students during the upcoming school year.

Educators and community organizations may contact IAA executive director, Angie Ellison, at (863) 802-0777 or email angie.ellison@inneractalliance.org to learn more about the power of humane education and schedule a community presentation or school visit. You may also reach out to IAA Humane Education Coordinator, Michelle Bachmeier, at (863) 398-9349 or send an email to michelle@inneractalliance.org. 

We look forward to working with you and your children!

Come Out to Support Summer Prevention Education Events in Polk County!

 

Underage use of alcohol, tobacco, and other substances are problems facing every community. As a licensed provider for prevention in Polk, Highlands, and Hardee counties since 1985, InnerAct Alliance is committed to impacting our community in a positive way. We believe in empowering youth and encouraging adults to make smart choices, be better role models, and engage in healthy activities.

Our agency's prevention efforts continue year-round to help young people learn the facts and skills needed to act responsibly and avoid becoming the next substance abuse statistic. We are always happy to collaborate with community partners to offer fun and informative educational programs and events.

Mark your calendar and come say hello to our InnerAct Alliance team at some of the upcoming community events in our area during July and August:

How To Have Sober Summer Fun

 

Hope your summer is off to a great start! Summer Break is the perfect time for teens to relax and recharge after a stressful school year. InnerAct Alliance strives to help youth make educated decisions so they understand the risks associated with alcohol and substance use. We wish everyone a safe and happy summertime with the reminder that there are plenty of ways to celebrate substance-free. Continue making healthy choices and remember that the majority of 6th to 12th grade students in our county choose NOT to be involved with drugs or alcohol.

Here are some tips from youth drug prevention leaders at Vive18 to help teens make the most of their free time this summer:

*Learn a new skill - Now is the perfect time to explore things you normally don’t usually have time for during the school year! Want to learn coding or digital marketing? Try SkillTube. Brush up on language skills? Try Try Duolingo or edX. Or take some free classes from MIT.

*Volunteer – Volunteering can make you feel helpful and empowered. You can volunteer remotely, in-person, or either way. Simply Find a volunteer opportunity that fits with your strengths, interests, and availability. 

*Try a new hobby - Branch out and try something new like drawing, photography, a new board or video game, Zumba, or whatever you’ve been wanting to try.  

*Find balance – Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, outdoorsy or a homebody, find a good balance between indoor/outdoor and social/alone time. Only you know what environments you feel best in. Challenge yourself to know your limits and recharge the way you need to. 

*Practice self-care – Set aside time to take care of yourself. Find activities that make you feel your best such as meditation, journaling, skincare, spa days, listening to music, or watching favorite shows/movies. You deserve time to relax this summer and all year long. 

*Have an accountability buddy - If or when you go to parties, know that alcohol, drugs, or vaping could be present. Find a friend or “accountability buddy” beforehand so that you can help each other turn down offers and have sober fun. Saying no can be difficult sometimes, so click here for a few ways to say no comfortably and confidently.  

Parents - You Can Help Prevent Drug Use This Summer!

 

Summer Break is the time of year families look forward to most - school is out with more time to enjoy the beach, BBQs, vacations, and pool parties. Along with fun in the sun, it can also be a dangerous time of year for young people. According to statistics reported by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) in the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, key periods of social transition like summer break can present a risk factor for youth substance abuse.

With longer days and nights of summer to hang out at parties and social events, teens might be tempted to use substances for the first time. Whether it's popping open a cold beer, lighting up a joint, or taking colorful pills thinking it will help them have more fun, they don't realize the risks or how many teens die each year form being irresponsible with alcohol and narcotics.

For this reason, the Summer months are an important time for parents to talk with their kids, set clear expectations about behavior, and keep in close contact to help them stay safe, make smart decisions, and avoid risky situations. And, keep the lines of communication open all year through!

Easy Summer Activities To Do With Your Kids

𝅘𝅥𝅮 Summertime and the livin’ is easy 𝅘𝅥𝅮 …at least that’s what the song lyrics say. But, sometimes it can be a challenge to come up with fun, new things to keep the kids busy especially on a tight budget.

Good News - it doesn't cost a lot to enjoy simple activities that will help create lasting summer memories 🌞 You don't need a perfectly planned schedule. It's about enjoying the moments together. Remember that it's the everyday things that parents do to connect with their kids that makes a big difference. It provides the basis for building healthy relationships. 

If you're looking for easy and fun things to do as a family to keep everyone entertained in mind, body, and spirit, here are more great ideas from our prevention partners at Informed Families:

MIND

Do puzzles - create a cozy corner for puzzle time
Watch a documentary - Netflix & Disney+ have good ones
Write a story or play - get the creative juices flowing
Listen to a podcast - check out NPR's Wow in the World
Build with Legos or blocks - a favorite for younger kids

BODY

Take a walk - hit the beach or a nature trail
Do yoga - Cosmic Kids Yoga combines yoga, mindfulness and storytelling
Bike riding - have your kids map out the route beforehand
Play charades - everyone can join in the fun

SPIRIT

Pray - pray through words, art, or song
Listen to music or sing - share favorites with your children & listen to theirs
Write in a journal - a great activity for reflection & goal setting
Meditate - everyone benefits from time to "unplug", relax, and focus
Create a gratitude or vision board - hang it up where it can be seen

ENVIRONMENT

Wash the family car - kids love to help out
Draw murals outside with color chalk - the driveway or sidewalk is your canvas
Garden - start an herb or vegetable planter
Sort through toys, clothes, books - decide what to donate
Volunteer - help kids develop empathy & compassion for others

FAMILY

Play board games - so many great ones to choose from
Cook together - Food Network & Publix website have kid-friendly recipes
Watch a movie - perfect for a family night in
Have a picnic - spread a blanket down in your backyard
Tell stories about old memories - a great way to make new memories too

Back to School Bash hosted by Polk Sheriff's Charities this Saturday July 8

 

Even though it's still the middle of summer, it's never too early to prepare for back to school! 

Head to the 2023 Back to School Bash, sponsored by the Polk Sheriff's Charities, Inc., this Saturday, July 8, from 10am to 1pm, at the PCSO Northeast District Office on Dunson Road in Davenport, FL. 

1,000 backpacks filled with school supplies will be given out - child must be present to receive the school supplies. ✐📓

Fun activities including face painting, a balloon artist, food truck, and games will provide entertainment for the entire family! 🎈

While you're there, come say Hi👋 to Susan, Gavin, and Katie from InnerAct Alliance who will also be on hand at the Back to School Bash - see you there!

Summer Bucket List for Self-Care in July!

 

Happy July! Now that the Independence Day holiday has come and gone, summer is truly in full swing with more time to enjoy sunshine and self-care!

Each month, InnerAct Alliance is featuring a colorful graphic from @Positively Present to remind us that practicing self-care is essential to maintain good physical, social, emotional, and mental well-being.

A personal favorite is Set Fire to Your Desire!

Which of the inspirational tips will you try this month to help boost your mood and mental health?  

Smoking Prevalence Nationwide

 

Have you ever wondered if where you are born can impact the likelihood of you becoming a smoker? And also affect how much you smoke?

New studies have shown that the odds that you will smoke and even how much you smoke could indeed be a product of where you live. People in 12 states - Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and West Virginia - are 50% more likely to smoke than anywhere else in the country.

Reports say that the average smoker in those states goes through 53 packs of cigarettes per year compared to 29 in the rest of the United States.

Advocates say it is due to weaker local policies on tobacco prevention.

Happy 4th of July - Celebrate Safely!

 

Happy 4th of July! The holiday commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 by the delegates of the 13 colonies. It was on July 4th that the Continental Congress approved the final wording of the document. This is the day that we celebrate the birth of the United States of America. 

Happy 247th Birthday America! 🎆🎆