Jam Packed, a 29-minute video produced by and distributed under the auspices of Population Communications International, is now available to introduce global population issues to young adult audiences. The video was recently awarded first prize in the "EarthVision '98 Environmental Film and Video Competition," organized by the community of Santa Cruz, California. The contest, the first of its kind, was held in conjunction with the annual EarthVision Festival, in early November, 1998.

Hosted by Alexandra Paul, former star of television's Baywatch, Jam Packed introduces teens to major population-related issues, including global demographics, environmental problems and consumption issues, and unplanned adolescent pregnancy. The film highlights the consumption habits of Americans and the rising scale and costs of overconsumption. On a more personal level, Jam Packed includes poignant stories from American teens who become young parents and learn the difficulties of raising a child, continuing their education, and providing for themselves and their children.

Jam Packed was created specifically for teen audiences by producer Geoffrey Holland, educator Gregory Molina of the Los Angeles Unified school system, and Michael Tobias, a specialist in population issues. The film offers positive steps every person can take to be a part of the solution.

In addition to the EarthVision award, Jam Packed was chosen by the Young Adult Library Association (a division of the American Library Association) as one of nine videos for its “1998 Selected Films and Videos for Young Adults” reaching 30,000 librarians throughout the United States. The film also garnered the “Bronze Apple” award from the National Educational Media Network, widely recognized as setting a standard of excellence in educational media. Jam Packed was broadcast on the Public Broadcasting System as well as public access cable stations in Washington, D.C. and in southern California including the Los Angeles Unified School District cable station.

A 27-page study guide for teachers complements the film and includes population basics, guidelines for classroom discussion and activities, and homework assignments. The guide also contains a glossary of terms; suggested readings; writing projects, including sample letters to Congress; and contact information for organizations working on population, environmental and adolescent health issues.

For copies of the video and the study guide, contact:
The Video Project, 200 Estates Drive, Ben Lomond, CA 95005; 1-800-4-PLANET. On-line orders at http://www.videoproject.org/JammedPacked.html

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