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Talk early, talk often: Parents can make a difference in teen alcohol use

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Mon, Apr 4th 2016 11:30 am

Alcohol-free weekend to be observed April 8-10 on Grand Island

Alcohol-Free Weekend, traditionally observed during The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence Inc. Alcohol Awareness Month, was scheduled April 1-3. However, Grand Island is promoting an alcohol-free weekend this week (April 8-10).

Alcohol Awareness Month, founded and sponsored by NCADD since 1987, is a national, grassroots effort observed by communities throughout the U.S. to support prevention, research, education, intervention, treatment and recovery from alcoholism and alcohol-related problems.

During the local alcohol-free weekend, One Island, One Team asks parents and other adults to abstain from drinking alcoholic beverages for a 72-hour period to demonstrate that alcohol isn't necessary to have a good time.

If one finds it difficult to go without alcohol during this period, contact Horizon Health Services at 716-831-1800 for information about alcoholism.

Check out local activities and events through the Grand Island Recreation Department, Grand Island Memorial Library, Soma Cura and Mallwitz's Island Lanes for a few alcohol-free ideas. For free or low-cost ideas, have craft time at home, perform a community service together, cook a family meal, start a garden, or have a family movie night.

Parents, if you think your child is drinking just to "have a good time," think again. Many kids drink alone because they are bored or depressed. This puts them at greater risk for developing alcohol-related problems later in life. So talk to your kids - get to know them. Check out this website, https://www.ncadd.org/family-friends/there-is-help/talking-with-children, for more information and tips on how to talk to your child. Prevention starts at home!

Also, don't forget about the Health & Wellness Family Fair on April 23 at Grand Island High School.

One Island, One Team is working closely with Grand Island Central School District and developing relationships with community-based organizations. Its goal is to collaborate efforts and develop prevention strategies to address youth substance abuse in the community.

Become a member of the team and help support the cause because. One Island, One Team's next meeting is 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 4. For more information, contact Cyndy Montana at [email protected] or Corina Labin at [email protected].

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