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Target America: Opening Eyes to the Damage Drugs Cause

Developed by the Drug Enforcement Administration Museum and Partners

October 2, 2008 – May 3, 2009 (temporarily closed January 12-16)

Open your eyes to the science behind illegal drug abuse and addiction and explore the many costs and consequences to individuals, American society and the world. This exhibit takes an in depth look at how science and technology reveal the damaging effects of illegal drugs on the mind and body and the tremendous costs associated with its production, sale and use.

Highlights include:

View an actual jungle coca processing lab discovered and confiscated in South America, and a recreated Afghan heroin factory. Get an in-depth look at drug production, trafficking and money laundering over time from trading opium on the Silk Road in the 1800s to the Columbian cocaine trade that exists today.

Lay inside a simulated MRI machine to view scans of a normal brain versus an addicted brain. Learn the current science of the terrible toll drugs take on the body and how MRI machines are helping scientists uncover the secrets of addiction and recovery.

Hear true stories of addiction and recovery from addicts themselves.

View actual wreckage from a drug-related car accident, a tenement crack-house, and the bedroom of a young teen that has accessed a Web site that sells illegal drugs and reflect on the impact of drugs on our communities.

In a newly expanded section, explore the Southern California Story and learn the history and current science of detection, enforcement, prevention and treatment specific to our local communities:

  • Drugs in Southern California: 1900-2008
    Turn the dial on a 4-screen video display to explore the history of illegal drug use in Southern California. See how the supply and demand of illegal drugs has changed over time. Examine how law enforcement, drug treatment and prevention programs have evolved in response.
  • Hoop Nightmares
    Play a wacky basketball game that gives you a sense of temporary memory loss first-hand, as you learn about the latest research from UCLA scientists on the effects of drugs in the brain.
  • Wiretapping
    Speak into a wiretapped microphone and see your unique voice print. Learn about innovative technology pioneered in Southern California and view footage of drug enforcers and wiretaps in action.
  • Junior Special Agent: Drug Bust!
    Through an immersive theater experience, ride along with seasoned Southern California drug enforcement officers on a simulated drug bust. Discover the science, technology and skill of surveillance and apprehension.
  • Wheel of Misfortune
    Spin the Wheel of Misfortune and see the various risks drug addicts face. If you’re lucky enough to land in Rehab, spin the Wheel of Recovery and see what your chances are for long-term recovery. Find what treatment options are available throughout the southland.
  • At the Discovery Corner pick up some take home educational materials related to understanding and breaking the cycle of abuse and addiction. Share your own experiences and suggestions for keeping friends and family away from drugs.

Due to images and content that may be too intense for small children, the Science Center advises parental discretion when bringing young children to this exhibit.

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