ALD. EMMA MITTS CHOSEN TO CO-CHAIR COALITION ON UNDERAGE DRINKING

 Ald. Emma Mitts accepts the Co-chairmanship of the Austin Coalition on Underage Drinking, saying a problem for youth in our community is a problem for everyone. “As adults, we are responsible for guiding and protecting our children,” she says. “This is an opportunity for all of us to step up and lead.”  (Photo by Brad)

The Austin Community Coalition on Underage Drinking, a federally-mandated and state -funded campaign to reduce consumption of alcohol by children and adolescents, held a Town Meeting March 24 at the Columbus Park Refectory. The purpose of the event was to inform adults and young people of the extent of the problem and the risks involved with underage drinking.
    Alderman Emma Mitts was named Co-chairperson of the Coalition at the Town Meeting. She succeeds former 29th Ward Alderman Isaac Carothers, who served since the formation of the Coalition three years ago.
    The Coalition comprises members from all segments of the community, including business, health care, law enforcement, civic organizations, clergy, education, elected officials, youth, and the media. The Coalition is coordinated by The Prevention Partnership, Inc., a locally based, acclaimed leader in substance abuse education, violence reduction, and HIV/AIDS awareness.
    Most recently, the Austin Community Coalition on Underage Drinking has been conducting training sessions with high school and elementary school students, educating them about the dangers of underage drinking and encouraging them to develop social marketing initiatives to convince their peers not to drink alcohol.
    Main speaker at the Town Meeting was Jeffrey Bates, Student Advocate, Admissions Counselor, and Coach at Prosser High School.

 Larry C. Williams, State Farm Insurance agent & Co-chairperson of the Austin Community Coalition on Underage Drinking, introduces his new Co-chairperson, Ald. Emma Mitts. (Photo by Brad)

Participants in the Austin Underage Drinking Coalition Town Meeting include 25th district police officers, youth, business people and community residents (Photo by Brad) 

 Adam Bates of Prevention Partnership explains the mission of the Coalition on Underage Drinking and moderates a panel discussion. (Photo by Jason Torres)

 A panel comprised of various segments of the community expresses themselves on aspects of the underage drinking problem and how to solve it. (Photo by Jason Torres)

 Jeffrey Bates of Prosser High School draws from his own youth experiences & career working with teenagers to put the campaign against underage drinking into perspective. (Photo by Jason Torres)
For information on the Coalition and to join its efforts, call 773/378-4195.