Free ‘safe prom’ text messaging

Grand Island Dispatch, May 5, 2006

Erie County Sheriff Timothy B. Howard is encouraging parents of teen-agers attending proms this year to take advantage of the “Safe Prom Text Messaging Initiative,” a free service offered by the Century Council. By visiting www.erie.gov/sheriff and clicking on the “Safe Text Messaging” story in the News Center, and then clicking on the “Century Council” link, teens and their parents can register to receive a free “safe prom” text message on prom night.

The student or parent will have to enter limited information, including their cell phone number, the date of the prom, and their zip code, thus allowing the student to receive a message to stay alcohol-free on prom night.

“Text messaging among teens has increased dramatically, so why not use this tool to once again remind your sons and daughters to stay alcohol-free every night, but especially on prom night?” Howard said.

The Century Council is a national, independent, not-for-profit organization funded by America’s leading distillers to fight drunken driving and underage drinking.