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Youth drinking, festivals donít mix

TO THE EDITOR:
Our communities are working hard to monitor and regulate who has access to alcohol at community festivals this summer.Ý It is a big job and there are so many agencies, organizations and individuals involved.Ý On behalf of our communities, thanks goes out to the following organizations: Chisago County Sheriffís Department, local law enforcement, Chisago Countyís Chamber of Commerce, Chisago County Public Health Department, local service organizations (Rotary Club, Lions Club, Jaycees), local festival planning committees, Minnesota Join Together, the Innovative Judicial Intervention Initiative, Drawing the Line, Community Partnership with Youth and Families, and many individuals.ÝAll of these groups are working together to help stop youth access to alcohol during the busy summer festival and party months. Many of these organizations have worked to implement strategies to prevent teens from accessing alcohol at festivals this summer.ÝSome festivals have made a fence with only one gate at it, or requiring wristbands, or they are carding everyone. Some festivals are only allowing one drink per person to be purchased at one time.ÝLaw enforcement will have a greater presence at the festivals.Ý The extra effort is to be commended.
As parents and community members, we need to change the norms surrounding alcohol and realize that it is dangerous to our teens.Ý According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, ìunderage alcohol use is more likely to kill young people than all illegal drugs combined.î
Providing alcohol to teens is risky business, not only because of the monetary consequences but also because of the repercussions it may cause in the future.ÝThe Institute says people who begin drinking before the age of 15 are four times more likely to develop alcohol dependence compared to those who have their first drink at age 20 or older.Ý
If you suspect a juvenile alcohol party is occurring, call 911.Ý Be responsible and have a safe summer.
Erin Plathe ñ Intern,
Community Partnership with Youth and Families

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