Professor to discuss meth issues

Bolstered by community interest, the Partnership of Community Resources is hosting a University of Nevada, Reno, professor Thursday who is to discuss the medical aspects of methamphetamine.

Dr. Melissa Piasecki, an associate professor of psychiatry at the School of Medicine will speak from 6-7:30 p.m. at Carson Valley United Methodist Church.

"She is a phenomenal speaker," said Martie Washington, prevention coordinator for the partnership. "She explains the addiction process in ways everyone can understand."

Piasecki spoke at last summer's forum on abuse of prescription medicine.

"Even people who hate science are fascinated," Washington said.

Thursday's program, "Understanding Methamphetamine," is the second Family Prevention Night the partnership has organized during the school year.

Washington encouraged parents to attend with their children, middle school age and older, and invited other members of the community.

"We want parents with kids of all ages to show up and anyone who has any involvement with youth at all," Washington said.

"That includes employers, because statistics show that 70 percent of all meth users are employed. Employers - whether they like it or not - are dealing with all these addiction issues."

Washington said members of the Valley Christian Fellowship will provide free baby-sitting. Light refreshments will be served.

A year ago, the partnership hosted an information night on methamphetamine and the church Fellowship Hall was packed.

"People wanted more information," she said.

Washington said the doctor's presentation is to focus on the medical aspects of methamphetamine addiction.

"It can be hard to understand addiction. People who aren't addicted wonder why meth users just can't quit," she said. "You can't help addicts if you don't understand anything about that process."

Washington said Piasecki would give an hour presentation and the last 30 minutes would be reserved for questions.

"I can't think of anybody who wouldn't benefit from this program," she said.

The event is funded by donations from Kiwanis Club and Soroptimist International of Carson Valley.

DETAILS

Partnership of Community Resources Family Prevention Night, "Understanding Methamphetamine," 6-7:30 p.m., Thursday, Carson Valley United Methodist Church, 1375 Centerville Lane, Gardnerville.

Featured speaker is Dr. Melissa Piasecki, associate professor of psychiatry, University of Nevada, Reno, School of Medicine.

Free baby-sitting will be provided. The program is open to all, but is recommended for adults and middle school-aged children and older.

Information: 782-8611.