Letters

Alcohol is the most abused drug by children in our community, more than tobacco or any other illicit drug. In fact, 49 percent of seventh- and eighth-grade students have used alcohol, according to the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey. This is a serious problem that is not going to go away by itself.

Recently in Monmouth County, 35 teens were arrested after police broke up two underage drinking parties where no adults were present.

On March 28, 2006, Prevention First will hold a Town Hall Meeting at the Monmouth County Library Headquarters in Manalapan to address this important issue. Now is the time to get involved in solving this problem for our children.

New federal research has shown that children who drink before the age of 15 are five times more likely to have alcohol problems when they are adults. As a result, the U.S. Surgeon General has issued a nationwide call to action to combat childhood drinking.

Won't you join the cause at our town meeting on March 28?

Mary Pat Angelini

executive director

Prevention First

Ocean Township

Kudos to OTHS wrestling team

Congratulations are in order to the Ocean Township High School wrestling team for winning another sectional title during this season.

This was made even more noteworthy because of the adversity that the team has faced throughout this year. Whether scheduling to wrestle some of the best teams in the country, or a host of injuries, it would have been very easy for the team to fold.

However, under the leadership of coach Ken Hoff, they persisted and brought home another honor to an already rich wrestling program.

Steven M. Clayton

class of 1997 wrestler

Ocean Township