Earlier this month, a well-coordinated effort broke up a large party in Minot. I would like to thank the Androscoggin County Alcohol Enforcement Team for protecting the health and safety of people here.

In 2007 the U.S. Surgeon General issued a report on preventing and reducing underage drinking. Research has shown that teens’ brains are altered when they consume alcohol. We also know that teens who start drinking before age 15 have a 40 percent chance of developing alcohol dependence or alcoholism as adults.

One way we can protect teens and support a positive future for our youth is to prevent underage alcohol use.

Protecting our youth is everyone’s job – parents, schools, law enforcement, faith communities, liquor licensees, health care providers and adolescents themselves. It is not always an easy job because alcohol use is woven into the fabric of our culture.

Yet, much like the changes that have been achieved in tobacco prevention, underage drinking can be prevented when parents are encouraged to talk to their children about alcohol and drug use; school substance-use policies enforced; party patrols conducted (compliance checks and investigation of cases of furnishing alcohol or a place to party); alternative activities for youth provided; and support or treatment offered for youth who are at risk for alcohol dependence.

When we all work together to change the environment in which our children and teens live, we can successfully support them in becoming healthy adults and fulfilling their potential.

Jayne Harper, Substance Abuse Prevention Manager

Healthy Androscoggin, Lewiston