Life Advice from The Cat in the Hat

 

The Cat in the Hat can create playful strife 🎩

but we can all learn a lesson for balance in life!

My most favorite of all is:

Today you are YOU!

That's truer than TRUE!

There is no one alive...

Who is YOU-ER than YOU!

In The News: Florida Takes Action Banning Concentrated 7-OH Products

 

Yesterday, August 13th, the State of Florida officially classified an increasingly popular drug, known as 7-OH - or 7-Hydroxymitragynine - in the same category as heroin and banned its sale a month after the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services/Food and Drug Administration (FDA) called for a nationwide crackdown.

Doctors warn that this drug can cause both euphoria and sedation. Florida's Attorney General, James Uthmeier, shared that Florida is taking 7-OH off the shelves immediately because "this dangerous substance is being marketed to teens and young adults and has a high potential for abuse and death."

7-OH is found in the Kratom plant as a naturally-occurring substance. It is often marketed and sold as a pain reliever. The Kratom leaf, used in teas or ground-up, is not the focus of these investigations because it only contains trace amounts. What is being investigated is a synthetic, concentrated by-product that has developed in recent years and goes by several names including 7-OH, 7-Omega, 7-Hydroxy - these are dangerous products that people are becoming addicted to.

These small pills are a synthetic and concentrated form of Kratom, used by some to wean themselves off opioids. It is described as a psychoactive drug stronger than morphine. It interacts with opioid receptors in the body. Packages of 7-Hydroxy can generally be found across Central Florida on the shelves at smoke shops and gas stations, located next to vape pens. It may come in pill form, gummies, or contained in drinks. 

The issue is that any type of concentrated, synthetic opioid product like this may have varying potency and additives - experts want people to know to avoid 7-OH, 7-Hydroxy, and any gummy, candy, or drink with 7-OH in it.

Read: https://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrelease/attorney-general-james-uthmeier-files-emergency-rule-immediately-removing-dangerous-7

Nitazenes – A Deadly Drug Up to 10x Stronger Than Fentanyl

 

A little-known opioid that is deadlier than fentanyl has led to a growing number of overdose deaths across America in recent years. According to a report from the Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission (CICAD), Nitazenes, a class of synthetic opioids known as the benzimidazole-opioids, are being detected with increasing frequency in overdose cases. These drugs can be up to 10 times more potent than fentanyl and routine drug screens may not detect them.💊

Experts warn that nitazenes are being produced in illicit labs overseas and trafficked into the U.S. through the same channels used for fentanyl. To get around enforcement crackdowns on fentanyl, drug traffickers often turn to producing these new synthetic opioids since the drugs are cheap to make and easy to move. Synthetic nitazenes come in pills, powders, sprays, and other forms that can be snorted, smoked, injected, or taken orally.

The biggest risk is their potency - which can be hundreds of times stronger than morphine and potentially 10-40x more potent than fentanyl so that even the tiniest of doses can be potentially deadly.💀

The CICAD report warns that these drugs are known to cause dependency, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, disorientation, loss of consciousness, cardiac arrest, and seizures. Another issue is unpredictability of nitazenes in the street supply. Producers of synthetic opioids tweak the chemical structures to evade laws and standard tests. Users may think they're taking one thing, but they may end up taking something different. Naloxone can reverse overdoses, but multiple doses may be needed due to their potency.

Stay informed because we know that public awareness, widespread naloxone distribution, and rapid drug checking are key to preventing deaths.

Learn more about Nitazenes

https://drugfree.org/drugs/nitazenes/

Back-to-School Checklist from Polk County Sheriff’s Office

 

Back-to-School Basics from Sheriff Grady Judd 

"This message is so important, we made y'all a worksheet and even filled it out for you. Talk to your students about which items are and are not permitted on school campuses. Let's all have a safe school year together!" 

Thank You Sheriff Judd & PCSO Deputies for

keeping our community and schools safe!

🚔 🚨

Welcome Back Polk County Students & IAA Teachers

 

Welcome Back Polk County Students & Teachers 

especially the prevention specialists on the IAA Team! 😊 

lnnerAct Alliance wishes all Polk County students, families, teachers, administrators, and bus drivers a great First Day of the 2025-2026 School Year!🏫 We appreciate and thank you for all you do to support our most precious resource - our students! 👦👧

Drivers - please watch for students walking to and from the bus stop and around school zones each day. Allow extra time to get where you are going so you're not rushed while driving. Let's keep a watchful eye out for our students and make sure they are safe and protected! Have a wonderful first day! 

The Dog Days of Summer

 

You've heard the term "dog days of summer" but do you know the actual meaning behind it? 🐕🌞

The "dog days" refer to the hottest days of the summer, typically in July and August. The phrase can be traced back thousands of years to the days of the Roman Empire. People noticed that the dog star Sirius⭐ rose and set around the same time as the sun after the summer solstice - usually July 3 through August 11 during the hottest and most humid days of the year in the northern hemisphere. The Romans believed that Sirius' brightness increased the sun's warmth, making the days even hotter.

In celebration of the "dog days of summer" and this last weekend of summer break before school starts next week, enjoy a family hot dog grill out 🌭, pool time, and cool treats like watermelon🍉or shaved ice 🍧to stay cool!

In The News: Local Law Enforcement Keeping Polk Safe

 

Yesterday in Polk County, one driver thought he could outsmart Florida Highway Patrol troopers but he failed miserably. After a successful PIT maneuver and arrest, FHP recovered 150 pounds of marijuana and approximately $40,000 from his vehicle - just look at all that marijuana on the hoods of the troopers' cars! Kudos to FHP and troopers who face dangers like this each day to protect our communities and keep our roads safe, while taking dangerous drugs off our streets and away from our children!

Shoutout also to Polk County Sheriff's Office deputies who arrested 50 people for Driving Under the Influence of alcohol and/or drugs during July 2025. Among the arrests, 15 were involved in crashes. Two of those arrested were driving with a child in the vehicle. These 50 arrests were PCSO arrests only - not including other arrests made in Polk by any city police departments or Florida Highway Patrol. Sheriff Judd reminds us that if you see someone who appears to be driving while impaired, be sure to call 9-1-1 immediately. Stay safe!

Be on Alert for Common Emoji Codes Signaling Potential Drug Use

 

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has shared this "cheat sheet graphic" picturing some of the common emoji symbols that may be used by teens to disguise drug-related communication and content. Sharing information like this helps to decode the emoji slang associated with buying and selling drugs.  

The reference guide is intended to give parents, caregivers, educators, and other influencers a better sense of how emojis are being used in conjunction with illegal drugs. Fake prescription pills that are commonly laced with deadly fentanyl and methamphetamine are often sold on social media and e-commerce platforms - making them available to anyone who has a smartphone.

Please help spread awareness and keep our community safe! 

Anyone Having A Cat In The Hat Kind of Day?

 

Anyone having A Cat in the Hat Kind of Day? Can you relate to a Tuesday that feels like a Monday?

Balancing our responsibilities can sometimes be a little daunting. At times like this, it's always best to keep a sense of humor as we manage the highs & lows of our daily lives. I think that's why people love Dr. Seuss and his characters so much. Using enchanted worlds and wonderful creatures, the great Dr. Seuss is able to teach readers admirable life lessons about the importance of taking responsibility. He and the beloved characters in his stories encourage us to see our own potential and use our capabilities to reach our goals while still having fun along the way! 

Power of Positive Fact-Checking

 

We're constantly bombarded by media messaging, news, and information online, in the world, and within our everyday lives. For that reason, it is even more important to be sure we are receiving accurate information. ⚖

Media literacy and digital literacy are valuable skills in our always-connected world. It's always a good idea to verify the information with one or two reputable sources. Make sure it's legitimate and consider that it could possibly be altered - very possible these days with AI so prevalent. 

Our friends @ Positively Present remind us to check the facts using 6 short prompts from checking the source to considering who/what might potentially benefit from the info being true. 

By taking these 6 fact-checking questions into consideration, it can help separate what's real and what's manufactured - including examining and evaluating our own thoughts. 💭

August Self-Care

 

August is National Wellness Month - a perfect time to focus on taking care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. Taking time for self-discovery is a good way to access what is going right and what isn't, as well as think about which changes can be made to set yourself on a path to living a beautiful life.

Research suggests that self-care promotes positive healthy outcomes, such as fostering resilience, living longer, and becoming better equipped to manage stress. Even small acts of self-care added to our daily lives can play a big role in taking good care of our minds, bodies, and souls. It helps to reinforce the belief that our needs are valid and should be a priority.

To encourage the practice of regular self-care, InnerAct Alliance is happy to share this inspiration graphic from our friends @ Positively Present reminding us of some simple ways to incorporate proactive self-care in our lives each day. During August, we encourage you to...accept the unknown, protect your peace, capture calm moments, and stand tall in your truth.

Fake Pills = Real Danger!

 

Messages about the unpredictable nature of counterfeit pills containing fentanyl cannot be repeated often enough. In 2024, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) seized enough counterfeit pills to represent 380 million lethal doses. In 2025 alone, seizures equaled 196 million lethal doses - an unprecedented surge.

DEA labs tested 4-in-10 counterfeit pills seized and found lethal doses of fentanyl. Law enforcement and prevention professionals from Informed Families, the Florida Family Partnership, remind us that there are no safe-looking pills. Counterfeit pills can look exactly like real pharmaceuticals, such as Oxycontin, Xanax, and Adderall, but fake pills are powerful synthetic opioids produced in criminal labs. Potency of these pills can vary greatly - just 2mg of fentanyl, about the size of a few grains of table salt, can lead to fatal overdose.

Protecting our teens requires up-to-date awareness, ongoing communication, and practical action. The DEA offers a Science-Based Fact Sheet to arm parents with the facts to share with their children.

https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2022-09/DEA-OPCK_Parent%20flyer_V6.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Research Shows Negative Impact of Cannabis Use on Heart & Brain

 

As recreational use of marijuana has become more common in recent years, research continues to show that cannabis can significantly age the brain, raise the risk of heart attack and stroke, and cause mental health issues.

In a recent interview with Fox News Digital, brain imaging specialist Dr. Daniel Amen shared that it's "clear" that people who use marijuana have lower blood flow in their brain.🧠 Findings are based on decades of brain imaging performed at the Amen Clinics in California which show that when teenagers or those in their 20s use marijuana, there is a higher incidence of anxiety, depression, suicide, and psychosis.

Through ongoing research, we have learned that the brains of young adults are not fully developed until the age of 25-26. Engaging in use of cannabis in earlier years can set youth back mentally and cause issues like anxiety and depression. As Dr. Amen cautioned, "Many people don't really appreciate how important their brain is when they are in their teens and early 20's. When they start using marijuana, alcohol, or other substances at an early age, development gets arrested. If brain development is impacted early, it might not ever catch up."

For more Health articles and recent research, visit: 

https://www.foxnews.com/health/heres-what-marijuana-really-does-developing-brain-according-psychiatrist

Alcohol & Drug Use in the Workplace

 

Our prevention partners at the Drug Free America Foundation have shared results from a national study conducted by researchers at The Ohio State University and published in the American Journal of Industrial Medicine which found that nearly 9% of U.S. workers under the age of 30 have used alcohol or drugs while on the job. Substances used included cannabis and alcohol as well as prescription painkillers or opioids.

Among younger employees surveyed, 8.9% said they used substances at work in the past year. More than 60% used cannabis. Many admitted not only using substances during work breaks, but also during period of actively working. Findings noted that employees with low job satisfaction or those who felt their positions were insecure were more likely to use alcohol or drugs on the job. 

This presents alarming concern for safety, employee morale, and operations in the workplace. On-the-job substance use must be addressed to reduce risk of accidents, maintain productivity, and avoid liability issues. 

Workplace culture must support open communication so employees feel safe discussing mental health or personnel challenges without fear of judgment - this can identify potential issues before they escalate. Employees who feel valued and secure in their roles are less likely to engage in harmful behavior, including using substances at work.

https://news.osu.edu/9-of-young-us-employees-use-alcohol-drugs-at-work-study-finds/

Have an “Exit Plan” with Your Child for Risky Situations

 

Talking about substance use is important for promoting healthy behaviors. Open communication provides an opportunity for you and your child to discuss strategies to avoid underage drinking and other substance misuse. Even with a plan, young people can sometimes find it difficult to make safe decisions in the moment.

Help your teen create an "exit plan" in case he or she is faced with a difficult decision. Create a code word, phrase, or emoji that your child can text to you or someone else they trust if they need help in an uncomfortable situation. They may worry about getting in trouble, so make it clear that they can come to you any time for help if they or someone they know are in danger - offer them a safe ride home or arrange a ride from another trusted driver.

Peer pressure can be powerful, so coming up with realistic action steps and practicing them together in a safe environment can go a long way to prepare and empower your teen to make good choices when it matters.

Key Differences Between 988 & 911

 

Thanks to our prevention partners at SAMHSA, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, for this helpful graphic that outlines the difference between 988 and 911 - both are critical resources to make sure you get the support you need!

9-1-1 is reserved for urgent threats to life and safety - those who require immediate intervention for medical or other kinds of emergencies or crimes in progress.

9-8-8 Lifeline is an immediate resource that is available 24/7 for emotional support, de-escalation of crisis, and connection to community resources. 988 provides one-on-one skilled, caring support for mental health or substance use issues. You can text - call - or chat 988 any time, no matter where you are.

Positive Signs on Life’s Highway

 

Sometimes, we all have moments in life when we may feel things are not going our way. Along life's highway, look for signs that remind us to slow down and take self-inventory. 

When experiencing feelings of doubt or uncertainty, do your best to be in the moment. Embrace gratitude by reflecting on how far you have progressed in life and count the blessings that have come your way. Be encouraged by the fact that while you may not be exactly where you want to be, neither are you where you used to be. Treat yourself with kindness and be sure to acknowledge how proud your past self may be if they could see you now!

Join Us for the 2025 Red Ribbon Run – Saturday, October 25th at Lake Mirror

 

Whippets Warning: Dangers of Inhaling Nitrous Oxide

 

Last month, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a public advisory about the danger of inhaling nitrous oxide (N2O). The advisory comes in response to a growing rise in recreational abuse and number of class action lawsuits targeting N2O manufacturers - as more and more people are becoming addicted to this product known to cause possible nerve damage, paralysis, or even death. 

Nitrous Oxide is often referred to as laughing gas, used by dentists for pain relief during dental procedures. But, there's also a dark side to N2O with young people using it for a quick high - some even becoming addicted. "Whippets" is another name for this legally-sold gas. Health officials say N2O use is putting more and more young people at risk as many are following viral trends on social media of teens filming themselves as they inhale from large canisters with names like Galaxy Gas.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of deaths attributed to nitrous oxide poisoning has risen more than 110% over a five-year period. Georgia Poison Center shared that nitrous oxide calls rose from 3 in 2019 to 22 last year. Many patients are being seen in emergency rooms after having experienced black outs and unconsciousness. Chronic use of nitrous oxide robs the brain and heart of oxygen - leading to heart conditions, blood clots, even temporary paralysis. Regular inhalation can lead to prolonged neurological effects, including spinal cord or brain damage, even after stopping use.

In June, the FDA advised consumers not to inhale nitrous oxide products from canisters, tanks, or chargers. These products are marketed as both unflavored and flavored nitrous oxide canisters and are sold as a food processing propellant for whipped cream and culinary use. Intentional misuse or inhalation of contents can lead to serious adverse health events, even death. Products may be sold under the following brand names, including but not limited to: Baking Bad, Cloud 9ine, Cosmic Gas, Euro Gas, ExoticWhip, FastGas, Galaxy Gas, Goo Stocks, HOTWHIP, InfusionMax, MassGass, Miami Magic, Monster Gas, NITROX, Whip-It!

Learn more about Whippets and Nitrous Oxide Abuse:

https://www.fda.gov/food/alerts-advisories-safety-information/fda-advises-consumers-not-inhale-nitrous-oxide-products

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-are-whippets

https://www.sharp.com/health-news/the-impact-of-whippets-on-adolescent-minds

FDA Authorized Sale of JUUL’s Tobacco & Menthol-Flavored E-Cigarettes

 

Yesterday, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) announced approval of some electronic vape products that they have been trying to ban for years. In the July 17, 2025 announcement, the FDA authorized the sale and marketing of specific JUUL Labs e-cigarette products including e-cig devices and refill cartridges in tobacco and menthol flavors. This comes after years of health concerns, legal battles, and an FDA ban of JUUL sales in 2022 for marketing its flavored pods to children and teens.

The FDA determination was made after reviewing scientific evidence provided by JUUL that showed some specific products - such as the JUUL device, Virginia Tobacco flavor JUULpods (3% and 5% nicotine concentration) and Menthol flavor JUULpods (3% and 5% nicotine concentration) - met legal standards set by the 2009 Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Act to market tobacco products to adult cigarette smokers that are intended to help them quit or use less harmful products to reduce cigarette use.

While the FDA's latest actions will permit specific e-cig products to be marketed to adults age 21 & older in the U.S., it does not indicate these products are safe - nor are they "FDA approved."

The FDA will continue to monitor compliance with restrictions in place to limit youth exposure to marketing. Research continues to show that there is no safe tobacco product and those who do not currently use tobacco products should not start. In particular, youth should never use tobacco products.

Read more: 

https://www.fda.gov/tobacco-products/ctp-newsroom/fda-authorizes-marketing-tobacco-and-menthol-flavored-juul-e-cigarette-products

Underage Drinking - FACTS Over Fiction

 

"Everyone is Doing It" is a common misconception when it comes to underage drinking. Truth is the vast majority of high schoolers are choosing to steer clear of alcohol.

According to the 2024 Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey, only 1 in 6 High Schoolers surveyed drank alcohol in the past 30 days. And the news is just as positive here in our community where statistics collected among 6-12 grade students in Polk County show that 90% DO NOT USE ALCOHOL (FYSAS 2024). Once young people realize that avoiding alcohol is the norm, research suggests it becomes a natural and often more attractive option.

InnerAct Alliance and our prevention partners at Informed Families remind parents that the #1 reason kids give for choosing not to drink is parent disapproval. Let's keep supporting healthy choices and reminding our youth that saying no is more common than they think!

Support local prevention efforts by inviting a representative from InnerAct Alliance to share a free educational program with your school, PTA group, community organization, or business. Call us at (863) 802-0777 and visit https://www.inneractalliance.org/

Resources for Families Coping with Mental Health & Substance Use Disorders

 

Families share an important bond that can be used to support one another during challenging times, such as when a loved one is drinking too much, using drugs, or dealing with mental health or substance use disorders. 

Often, family members are the first to notice when loved ones are experiencing changes in mood or behavior. When adolescents start behaving differently for no apparent reason - such as acting withdrawn, being unusually tired, depressed, or hostile - it could be a sign they are developing a drug-related problem.

Other telltale signs and behaviors associated with substance use and related problems may include: a change in peer group - being careless with grooming - decline in academic performance - missing classes or skipping school - loss of interest in favorite activities - trouble in school or with the law - changes in eating/sleeping habits - deteriorating relationships with family & friends.   

It can be difficult to support a loved one through a struggle with substance abuse. The process can be further complicated when the person refuses to accept help. This is when it's important to reach out to connect with helpful resources and services, while also continuing to provide love and support. 

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) operates a National Helpline 1-800-662-HELP (4357) - a free and confidential treatment referral and information service that is available 24/7, 365 days-a-year in English and Spanish.

SAMHSA also offers online resources for families who are coping with mental and substance use disorders. To access resources, visit: https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/children-and-families/coping-resources and find treatment options:  https://www.samhsa.gov/find-treatment

  

Remember, always call 9-1-1 if someone is experiencing an overdose, mental health crisis, or other serious emergency.

Nicotine Pouches: A Growing Danger to Young Children

 

If you or someone you know has tried to quit smoking, you have likely heard about Nicotine Pouches. Now, a new study published in Pediatrics, a journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, shows nicotine pouches are becoming a growing source of nicotine poisoning among young children in cases reported to U.S. poison control centers - mostly since 2016.

From 2010 to 2023, U.S. Poison Control Centers reported 134,663 cases of nicotine poisonings among children under the age of 6 who accidently ingested nicotine. Cases included exposures to nicotine in various ways including pouches, chewing tobacco, regular cigarettes, vapes, and nicotine replacement products like gum and lozenges. Researchers found that nicotine pouches, like the popular brand Zyn, are behind the most significant rise in accidental nicotine poisonings among young children.

New research showed a rise from 0.48 per 100,000 children in 2020 to 4.14 per 100,000 in 2023 - an increase of 763% in just 3 years. Findings correlate with a surge in the sales of nicotine pouches that are appealing to youth because they typically contain mint and fruit flavorings that taste good.

Nicotine is a chemical that is highly toxic - it increases heart rate and blood pressure and could lead to nausea, vomiting, or even coma. Researchers also reported other side effects, such as trouble breathing and seizures.

It is critical that we continue to educate parents, childcare workers, and healthcare providers about the health risks associated with use of these products among children. Babies and toddlers are most vulnerable since they tend to explore their world by putting things in their mouth and canisters containing nicotine pouches are not child-resistant. 

Teens are also drawn to this product because use is relatively easy to hide from parents. Parents should talk to their kids about products like this and continue open dialogue in a nonjudgmental way in order to ascertain any risk. It's also a good idea to keep the national, toll-free Poison Help Line phone number handy at home and on your cellphone - 1-800-222-1222.

Read about Nicotine Ingestions Among Young Children

https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article-abstract/doi/10.1542/peds.2024-070522/202640/Nicotine-Ingestions-Among-Young-Children-2010-2023? 

View an NBC News health report on the Study

https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/nicotine-patch-poisonings-children-vape-liquid-warning-rcna218262

Hot Tips for Staying Active in Summer Heat

 

This time of year offers great opportunities for your whole family to be active and connect while enjoying the warm summer sun. Outdoor exercise is beneficial for your heart, muscles, and bones and it is also a healthy boost for your mind and spirit. Heat, humidity, and high temps can put extra strain on your body causing you to sweat and breathe more heavily. 

Don't let the summer heat melt your motivation - here's some hot tips to look cool and stay active whether you're at the beach, exploring nature trails, or enjoying your favorite outdoor activities.

Dress for Weather - clothing can help you beat the summer heat. Choose lightweight fabrics that wick moisture away from your skin. Use a head-covering like a hat made of 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 - local parks often offer shaded nature walks, bike paths, and trails that provide protection from the hot sun. Morning and late evening are the best time to be outdoors and avoid the heat of the day.

Scale Back - when summer heat is at its highest, be sure to scale back on strenuous activities and training. Opt for short bouts of outdoor exercise and strive for consistency rather than intensity.

Stay Hydrated - keep a 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 splash of lemon, lime, or fruit juices to liven up the flavors.

Most of all, remember to apply sunscreen and enjoy summer fun! 🌞

Embrace Optimism & Power of Positive Thinking

 

Positive vibes on a sunlit Friday offer a great opportunity to embrace optimism. We appreciate our friends @ Positively Present for sharing this bright graphic to inspire positive thinking. As suggested in the words contained within the sun's rays, "Optimism isn't an escape from reality. It's an arrival at a place that already exists in your mind. A place where you can see possibilities, discover hope, and seek positive change."🌞

Winston Churchill was a firm believer in being the optimist who sees the opportunity in every difficulty. Optimism does not mean living in a fantasy world or turning a blind eye to reality. Instead, it can be a tool to help balance our perspective.⚖ 

Start by focusing on mindfulness and strength to reframe any negative thoughts. This type of proactive mindset can help us learn to embrace what's possible and see challenges as opportunities for growth and success.

In many ways, optimism may be just what we need in today's fast-paced and uncertain world. It can be a true light to help brighten the path to positive change by believing in what is possible as we continue to actively seek solutions.💡

We All Have a Duty to Drive Safe This Summer!

 

According to AAA, accidents involving teen drivers spike this time of year - especially the time from Memorial Day to Labor Day that safety experts often refer to as the "100 Deadliest Days of Summer." In Florida, the danger doesn't just start in the summer but continues year-round due to our area's constant mix of out-of-town drivers, older drivers, and inexperienced teen drivers - a perfect storm of risk factors.

We all have a duty to drive safely. When it comes to teens, overconfidence can be common because although youth feel ready to drive, their inexperience behind the wheel can result in slower reaction times. Underdeveloped judgment is also a biological reality because the part of the brain responsible for impulse control and decision-making (the prefrontal cortex) does not fully mature until the mid-20s. Peer passengers add risk and distractions from phone and loud music raise the odds of something going wrong. Speeding makes things worse - the faster you go, the less time you have to react. Driving under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or even over-the-counter medication increases the dangers - impairment begins with the first drink/dose - it doesn't take much to lose focus or control of the vehicle.

Don't stop parenting when your teen gets behind the wheel - this is when your guidance matters most to help your teen become a safe driver. Set clear rules about where, when, and with whom your teen can drive. Model good driving behavior and ride along often, even after they get their license. Point out strategies for handling emergencies and making tough choices.

As part of their social norms campaigns shared with youth in our community, UthMpact teen leaders have developed a "Your Future is Deer!" message to remind peers of important safety measures to follow before they get behind the wheel. The focus is on driving responsibly and defensively - most of all, NOT driving distracted. When on the roads, buckle up, obey the speed limit, and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This also includes riding in a car driven by an impaired driver. We want you to stay safe this summer!

Today’s a Great Day to Start a Conversation About Drugs & Health

 

Summer break offers well-deserved down time but as most parents and caregivers know, the job of parenting never really takes a day off because our kids' health and safety is always top priority.

InnerAct Alliance and the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) encourage parents to take opportunities over the summer to have important conversations with teens about their health using simple facts and evidence-based information. NIDA has compiled a list of answers to teens' 10 most frequently asked questions about drugs to use as conversation starters and inspire communication with your children.

Kids can be curious about why some people use drugs - the best way to answer is to explain we all make choices that affect our health. Some think substances may help them deal with challenges, escape from reality, relieve pain, or fit in with others. Even when users want to quit, they may still struggle to stop using alcohol and other drugs. This is because repeated use causes changes in the brain that make it hard to stop.

Addictive drugs can cause the brain to release dopamine, a chemical released after pleasurable and satisfying activities. Repeated drug use floods the brain with dopamine and can change how the brain responds - this often results in needing more drugs to produce the same effect. Without more drugs, people may experience withdrawal symptoms causing stress, anxiety, depression, or physical effects like sweating, vomiting, and pain. This dangerous cycle of drug use and withdrawal can disrupt normal brain function so that people aren't able to experience pleasure in their lives and more drugs are needed.

The best way to avoid substance use disorder is not to ever start. Share the good news that most Polk County teens are making the right choices by choosing not to drink, smoke, or use substances. Knowing the truth can help kids avoid succumbing to peer pressure because they feel confident in making more informed personal decisions after knowing and considering all he facts. 

For answers to questions teens
may have about substance use visit:

https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/education/conversation-starters/10-questions-teens-ask-about-drugs-and-health

 

Save the Date: IAA’s Red Ribbon Run on October 25th

 

Exciting plans are coming together for InnerAct Alliance's Red Ribbon Campaign in our community this fall to prevent harm and promote health. The 2025 Red Ribbon Run, presented by Title Sponsor Publix Super Markets, will take place on Saturday, October 25th with FREE REGISTRATION for the Kids Fun Run for K-8 Students, along with a Family Fun Run for parents/adults to run or walk with their children ($5 fee). Participants will be treated to healthy snacks, fitness activities, and festive entertainment celebrating different cultures in the Florida Dairy Farmers World Tour vendor area at beautiful Lake Mirror in Lakeland. Plus, we will be celebrating InnerAct Alliance's 40th "Ruby" Anniversary!

Awesome Business Sponsorship Opportunities available! - the Red Ribbon Run presents a great opportunity for local businesses to support prevention of substance abuse, sponsor a race heat, and promote their products and services by sponsoring a booth. Contact Angie Ellison, IAA Executive Director, at (863) 802-0777 for more details!

Share your Talents & Create International Displays! - individuals and groups are invited to showcase their unique talents in music, dance, and performance as part of the Florida Dairy Farmers World Tour celebration of different cultures and traditions during the Red Ribbon Run festivities. Call the IAA office at 802-0777 for more information!

Plan to bring the whole family to the 2025 Red Ribbon Run to support substance abuse prevention in our community. Stay tuned for registration details and information to be announced soon on the InnerAct Alliance website and social media.

Event Website

www.inneractalliance.org

Visit Us on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/InnerActAlliance/

Channel Our Own Personal Freedom

 

After a holiday weekend celebrating our nation's freedom, let's start this week off with some sage advice from our friends @Positively Present to: "Stop giving your strength, time, and resources to things and people you wish to be free from." Learn to channel our own personal freedom and be mindful not to give our time and energy to people, situations, and things that don't deserve it!

Self-love and acceptance is our own responsibility. Don't expect others who treat you less to suddenly have a change of heart...a zebra doesn't change it stripes. Stop looking back on difficult things that have happened in your life because that action only continues to keep it alive within you. Stop worrying about things that haven't happened yet because more than likely they won't. All of these actions are a waste of precious time and energy.💪

Live in the moment and give yourself the love and kindness you deserve.💜 You and only you are in charge of your happiness. To put it in the hands of others is to give away your energy and your power.