Cord Byrd: “the warm springtime weather brings to mind the words of Shakespeare: From you have I been absent in the spring, When…”

“the warm springtime weather brings to mind the words of Shakespeare: From you have I been absent in the spring, When proud-pied April, dress'd in all his trim, Hath put a spirit of youth in everything. But, unfortunately, all is not well with many of our youth. While most of them are shedding their winter coats and playing in the warm sunshine, a shocking number are engaging in some very dangerous behavior, dangerous both to themselves and others. I am speaking of alcohol abuse. When I say ``dangerous behavior,'' I am talking about alcohol abuse. According to a study by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, get this: The extent of alcohol consumption by children ages 9 to 15 is startling, and preventing it must become a national priority. Consider these facts. Three million children ages 14 through 17 are regular drinkers. Twenty-four percent of eighth graders have used alcohol in the last 30 days. Let me read that again. Three million children ages 14 through 17 are regular drinkers. Where are the parents? They aren't around. Twenty-four percent of eighth graders have used alcohol in the last 30 days. More than 100,000 12- to 13-year-olds binge drink every month. More than 100,000 youngsters 12 to 13 years old binge drink every month. Ninth graders who drink are almost twice as likely to attempt suicide than those who do not drink.”