This week, I had the opportunity to present Old Drugs, New Threats® to communities across the United States virtually in partnership with the Mid-America PTTC, and also traveled back to my hometown (Go Antigo Red Robins! ❤️🐦). Each week, I’m reminded what an honor it is to work alongside fellow preventionists dedicated to improving the health and well-being of their communities. Thanks y'all!

________________________________________

What are people saying about my trainings?

•  I love your presentations!! I always feel so refreshed and better informed after listening to you speak!!
• This is such a great training. Thank you so much for your passion and resources!
• Absolutely phenomenal information!
• This was the best training EVER!!!! GREAT information, thank you soooooo much.
• This was the best training I have attended in a looong time!
• BEST drug training class I've ever attended!
• I thought I was in the know and this is BLOWING MY MIND!

UPDATE: Ban on smokable hemp back into effect after state appeals ruling that blocked new rules KVUE

Texas shops can still sell smokeable hemp THC until July 27, judge rules KSAT

Target is launching hemp THC drink sales in three of the US's most populous states Marijuana Moment

Hemp THC ban remains intact after House abandons rescue plan Food Dive

...Lawmakers declined to delay or overturn restrictions on the buzzy category, which has grown into a significant competitor of the alcohol sector...

📌What do the bans on hemp products look like for businesses and communities? Check out the DISA Global guide!

Emerging Synthetic Opioids: What to Know About Orphines in the Illicit Drug Supply Pharmacy Times

Key Takeaways

• Orphines were synthesized in the 1960s as ultra-potent analgesics but abandoned because of profound respiratory depression and high abuse liability.
• Preliminary toxicology suggests some analogs are multiple-fold more potent than fentanyl, creating rapid-onset overdose risk at very small exposures.
• Forensic reports identify orphines in counterfeit tablets and as adulterants in stimulants; class-wide fentanyl scheduling likely incentivized substitution to evade controls.
• Standard tox screens may miss these agents, so unexplained opioid toxidromes warrant empiric naloxone with readiness for repeated dosing and escalation of ventilatory support.

🔗Learn more about this dangerous class of drugs - 50 to 200 times stronger than heroin - from drugfree.org.

John Oliver on gas station drugs: 'Dangerous substances that can be made by just about anyone' The Guardian

'Gas station heroin' can be deadly, but it's just a mouse click away The Orange County Register

Kratom use explodes in the US, with life-changing consequences SciTechDaily

Edibles + Alcohol Combo Poses Driving Risks Missed by Sobriety Tests HealthDay

...A new study finds combined use of pot edibles and alcohol leads to greater and longer-lasting driving impairment, and the combo could be missed by sobriety checks...

Detroit students hospitalized after suspected marijuana edibles incident at two schools WOWO (MI)

In my Old Drugs, New Threats® presentations, I regularly talk about the connection between social media, drug culture, and how both can influence youth perception of risk and acceptability.

Lately, I’ve been seeing more and more examples from Grassroots, a popular California-based hat, apparel, and accessories company known for its unique designs and cannabis culture branding.

What makes these hats stand out? Their high-end caps (often retailing for $35–100) include a hidden stash compartment—marketed as the perfect place for a pre-roll or other items you’d want to conceal. 👀

Another reminder that prevention conversations today extend far beyond substances themselves—they also include marketing, branding, and culture.

Join me for the first annual PATH Conference on June 10–11, 2026 — virtually or in person! 🎉

From prevention to treatment, this event is packed with engaging speakers, practical strategies, and real conversations designed to inspire action and strengthen communities. 🌱💡

And because wellness matters too, enjoy free activities woven throughout the experience! 🫶 Hope to see you there!

Technical assistance from M3 Consulting LLC helps organizations and communities build stronger partnerships, improve engagement, solve challenges, and turn ideas into action. Through customized support, training, facilitation, and strategic guidance, TA services are designed to strengthen community impact and support long-term success. Let’s connect🌟