oregon’s first problem gambling prevention video debut | eugene, or | 6/5/07

• KVAL-TV | 'Local students make video to prevent problem gambling' (6/5/07)
• KMTR-TV | 'New video: Gambling prevention for teens' (6/5/07)
• Lane County news release

For Immediate Release 06/4/07

Oregon’s First-Ever Problem Gambling Prevention Video to Debut at Middle School

Contact: Julie Hynes, coordinator of Lane County Health and Human Services’ "Know the Rules of the Game" Problem Gambling Prevention Program, 682-3928

Media Op: 3 p.m., Tuesday, June 5 at Monroe Middle School, 2800 Bailey Lane, Eugene.

What: The first Oregon problem gambling prevention video is to debut. The video was commissioned by Oregon Problem Gambling Services, and produced by Allied Video Productions in conjunction with Marcia Martin & Associates, LLC.

Who:

Why: Ten years ago, the problem of underage gambling did not even register a blip on the roster of social concerns. Now, according to experts, more young people are at an increased risk of developing a gambling problem, sometimes associated with other risk behaviors such as alcohol and drug use, truancy, low grades, and illegal activities. Recent data provide us with disturbing evidence on the extent of the problem in many Oregon communities.

Because of the growing concern about problem gambling and youth, Oregon Problem Gambling Services commissioned the production of the first-ever Oregon video and educational guide. Filming included youth of various backgrounds from rural and urban Oregon communities.

The video is eight minutes, is geared toward middle school students and features a "Mythbusters" theme. The goals of the video are to supplement classroom problem gambling prevention education, and will be available free of charge to interested schools. Students will learn myths and facts about gambling, that gambling is not free of risk, how to recognize problem gambling, and how to get help. Help in Lane County is available at no cost to problem gamblers and their loved ones by calling the emergence Gambling Treatment Program at (541) 741-7107, or the 24-hour gambling help line, 1.877.MY.LIMIT.

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