Oct. 24, 1997 Contact John R. Crosiar (541) 346-3135 EUGENE--Facts and fictions surrounding the increasingly widespread use of heroin, crack and other forms of cocaine are the focus of a two-day conference organized by the University of Oregon Substance Abuse Prevention Program in late October. "Heroin: Myth and Mystery" is set from 8 a.m. to 4:50 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 31-Nov. 1, in the Wheeler Pavilion at the Lane County Fairgrounds, 796 W. 13th Ave. The conference is designed to assess the characteristics of a wide variety of groups who use heroin, changing health and safety risks, and the legal aspects of choosing to use this often-lethal drug. Keynote presenter will be John Galea, chief of enthnography for the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services. The Street Studies Unit of that agency reports that the use of heroin has increased appreciably in the past few years. A high level of purity allows the user to snort or sniff, as well as to inject, the drug. Heroin also has become more affordable and, often, the smoking of heroin is coupled with the use of crack or other forms of cocaine, creating a dual addiction. Researchers report seeing an increase in the number of people at major heroin "copping" locations. Many appear to be younger or appear to be new users. Organized street selling crews have replaced the independent sellers of the past. Negative attitudes about selling to children and younger adults have changed. Fear of AIDS is now a concern of heroin users. This weekend conference offers two units of college credit for graduate and undergraduate UO students who attend all sessions and complete all assignments, final examinations or projects. Community professionals and others also are welcome, with certificates available that serve as proof of attendance for application toward professional development hours or for re-certification purposes. Registration for the conference is $80. Community members may enroll for $40 per day. Early registration is encouraged. For information, call Miki Mace, UO Substance Abuse Prevention Program administrator, (541) 346-3397. -30- #P-2086/Local/eb