Not in My House

The Northeast Texas Coalition Against Substance Abuse held a parent information meeting on Jan. 21. The purpose of the meeting was to inform parents of the dangers of underage drinking, and to provide them with resources for discussing underage drinking with their students. The meeting, which was held at Daingerfield High School, brought speakers who discussed different aspects of underage drinking with the parents. After a welcome by high school Principal Ryan Carroll, Lieutenant Steven Blythe, of the Lone Star Police Department, spoke to the parents on the physical effects of alcohol use on young bodies, as well as some of the legal ramifications of Underage use. Lieutenant Blythe was followed by Brandon Davidson, who is the program director for Next Step Community Solutions, which is the parent organization for NETCASA. Davidson gave those in attendance some interesting facts concerning underage drinking.

Underage drinking is a problem that effects every community. It is also a problem that can be conquered, especially when the community works together. The Northeast Texas Coalition Against Substance Abuse is making strides in Daingerfield to that end. There are several aspects to consider when attempting to curb any issue like underage drinking. There must be education, not only for students, but for parents and the community as well. There also must be involvement from different organizations throughout the community, including faith-based groups, businesses, and of course the schools. The Northeast Texas Coalition Against Substance Abuse is actively working in each of these areas to raise awareness and education about underage drinking in Daingerfield. The best way to educate students on the dangers of underage drinking, is to have students relay the message. Peer Pressure is not always a bad thing.