Ben Cort coming to Thermopolis

On Wednesday, May 3 from 4-6 p.m. at the Thermopolis auditorium, Ben Cort will give a presentation as part of his statewide tour.

Cort will discuss the harmful effects of marijuana. His presentation will cover the science behind the change in marijuana, what it means for addiction rates, how it is now consumed and increased potency rates, as well as how the drug is being marketed at youth.

Rhea Parsons, the project coordinator for the Wyoming Association of Sheriffs and Chiefs of Police, said Cort has a dynamic and humorous way of presenting. She noted he presents a balanced view of marijuana, looking at not just the harmful effects but also the research done into its positive effects and uses.

The presentation is considered a “must see for any parent or person who works with families.” Parsons added some people, when they hear of marijuana, might get an image of its appearance and use in the 1970’s, and this presentation would be a real “eye-opener” as to how it has changed with regard to potency, consumption and marketing.

Cort’s passion for recovery, prevention and harm reduction comes from his own struggle with substance abuse. Sober since June 15, 1996, he has been part of the recovery community in almost every way imaginable. From recipient, to provider, to spokesperson, Cort has a deep understanding of the issues and a personal motivation to see the harmful effects of drug and alcohol abuse minimized.

Cort’s appearance is made possible through the Wyoming Association of Sheriffs and Chiefs of Police, and the Prevention Management Organization of Wyoming, Hot Springs County, is helping put it on.