In a recent government meeting, a substance abuse professional raised alarming concerns about the increasing availability of dangerous drugs to teenagers, particularly through online platforms like Amazon. The speaker, who has been involved in substance abuse education since 1987, highlighted the confusion surrounding legal and illegal substances, especially in the context of marijuana's recreational and medical use.

The discussion centered on the risks posed by edible marijuana products, such as gummies that resemble common vitamin supplements. The speaker recounted a distressing incident involving a student who experienced a severe reaction after consuming a high-dose gummy labeled \"star of death,\" which contained 75 milligrams of THC. This incident underscored the dangers of teenagers consuming these products without understanding their potency, leading to potential overdoses.

Additionally, the speaker addressed other substances gaining traction among youth, including Kratom, which is marketed online despite its addictive properties similar to heroin, and magic mushrooms, which are illegal in Ohio but readily available for purchase online. The meeting emphasized the need for increased awareness among educators and parents regarding these substances and their effects.

To combat this growing issue, the speaker announced the availability of a two-hour training class aimed at equipping teachers and parents with the knowledge to recognize and address substance use among students. Handouts and contact information were provided to facilitate further education on this critical topic. The urgency of the situation was palpable, as the speaker called for collective action to protect the health and safety of the community's youth.