July 23, 2014 at 2:10 p.m.

Know the consequences of alcohol


To the editor:
Now that summer is finally here it is once again time for cookouts, family get-togethers and holiday celebrations. In addition to the wonderful grilled items and tasty desserts at these functions, there is often times an assortment of alcohol on hand. It is very important for the adults responsible for these social gatherings to remember that it is illegal to serve or allow anyone under the age of 21 to consume alcohol. This offense is considered contributing to the delinquency of a minor and is punishable by up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine if the minor is 18 or older and up to one year in jail and a $5,000 fine if under the age of 18.
In our society it is often times looked upon as a rite of passage for young people to consume alcohol at parties. Other times it is seen as a form of entertainment as everyone watches the kid who has never had alcohol before get drunk. In other cases it is the curious nature of teens and pre-teens who want to experiment with something new or just want the excitement of doing something they are not supposed to, as they sneak of fwith some of the adult’s alcohol. No matter what the situation, it is still illegal and the host of the party and/or property owner will more than likely be held responsible should law enforcement become involved.
In addition to the legal issues that come with this behavior and the obvious health risks involved with minors and alcohol consumption are the dangers of what an introduction to this lifestyle can lead to. Most addicts of any substance can trace their substance abuse beginnings back to their first use of alcohol. Do you really want to be the one responsible for handing that person their first drink?
There are plenty of ways to have fun over the summer without involving alcohol, but please remember the potential consequences of your actions should you have alcohol available for minors to consume, for both your sake and theirs.
If you are interested in topics like this one that affect our community, please join us at the next Jay County Drug Prevention meeting that will be held Aug. 26 at 3:30 p.m. in the East Jay Middle School Conference Room.
Sincerely,
PJ Corwin
Vice Chair Person
Jay County Drug Prevention Coalition[[In-content Ad]]
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