Town Hall meeting focuses on underage drinking

Vernon — At a “Town Hall” meeting in Vernon on Thursday, April 15 Vernon’s children participated in a survey and listened to discussions about underage drinking. They also watched a DVD made by local businessman and musician Timmy Grins made about a friend of his who ended up in jail because of drinking. Grins told his own story, too. By the time he reached age 21, he’d only been in possession of his driver’s license for a total six months. He was 24 when he finally got finished paying all the fines and surcharges he accumulated as a result of three DUI’s. Also on hand were Ian Boyle and Ansley Stuart, recent high school graduates, who related to the tweens and teens from their experiences while they were in high school. See the video at www.advertiser-news.com Parents and guardians were given advice on how to recognize potential drinking problems in their children and offered suggestions on how to prevent underage drinking. It was suggested that parents and guardians should monitor their children’s Facebook use to see if any “red flags” come up. But, warned Grins, excessive checking could lead to a trust issue. Underage drinkers usually get alcohol from home, they were learned, so parents were urged to keep it locked up. Rapper Kosha Dillz was also at the meeting, donating his time. He treated the audience to his style of Rap and had a “Freestyle” spot where everyone participated. Dillz usually performs at area clubs and has his own video on MTV. The evening was sponsored by Grins in partnership with the Center for Prevention and Counseling and hosted by Vernon Department of Community Affairs, Vernon Municipal Alliance Commission and the Vernon PAL. Vernon’s Mayor, Sally Rinker, as well as council member Harry Shortway and Police Chief Roy Wherry were also in attendance.