Alcohol is the number one drug of choice among teenagers
and college students. Even though its effects are well known, alcohol has been used as an outlet for stress, failure, and even depression.

On average 1.5 million 12-17 year olds need treatment for an alcohol problem in a given year. Of those 12-17 year old drinkers, 31% had extreme levels of psychological distress, and 39% exhibited serious behavioral problems.  

Obtaining the alcohol, however, is not a difficult deed by far, especially if teenagers have friends who are over the age of 21 or their parents are willing to provide the alcohol for them.

In fact, research has shown that a child's first drink is easiest to find right next to the milk container in the refrigerator.

Underage drinking is not only illegal, but dangerous as well. Most teenagers explain their drinking habits as their own prerogative, that they are allowed to do whatever they wish to their own bodies and it does not affect anyone else, so why should anyone care?

Well, when those teenagers have a drink with their friends and decide to drive home that night, it no longer becomes a personal issue, but a safety issue for his/her friends, families, and community.  

Driving under the influence impairs an individual's vision, mind, and overall state; no matter how much alcohol is in his/her system.  

Alcohol impaired driving is a constant killer of young people today and accounts for one death on the U.S. highway every half-hour.

When someone 21 years old or older buys liquor for a
high school friend, or when a parent provides alcohol for their son/daughter and their friends to drink, they are risking not only the health and well-being of those teenagers, but also consequences from the legal system that could leave them in a pool of trouble for a long time.

The Manalapan/Englishtown Community Alliance for the Prevention of Drug and Alcohol Abuse in conjunction with the Law firm Lomurro, Davison, Eastman and Munoz is presenting "Baby Boozers-Dangers of Teenage
Drinking, Driving and an Overview of the Host Liability Law".  

It will be held Tuesday, October 9, 2012 at 5:30 p.m. at the Manalapan Senior Center/Community Alliance Building 211 Route 522, Manalapan.

A complimentary meal will be provided. Space is limited.  

Community members, including parents and their teens, are encouraged to attend. To RSVP or request further information, contact Lisa Harmon Mollicone at
732-446-8417.