College Drinking Declines
To The Editor:

Contrary to public perception, college students today are making healthier choices than their parents did. According to an annual study by the American Council on Education, the percentage of college freshmen who reported drinking beer frequently or occasionally is at the lowest level since tracking began in 1966, 10 percent lower than in 2000 and down 41 percent since its peak in 1982. Furthermore, the Core Institute at Southern Illinois University reports that nearly three-quarters of college students drink moderately, infrequently or not at all. This is good news, but there's more work to be done.

When the Roper polling organization asked college-bound teens ages 13-17 what is the greatest influence on their decision to drink alcohol or not, 76 percent cited their parents as the No. 1 influence.

That's why Anheuser-Busch Sales & Service Of New York, Inc. offers College Talk, a free guide designed to help parents continue discussions about drinking as their children move to the next level of independence. For parents of young children and teens, Family Talk About Drinking encourages open, honest communication on this subject. To download these free guides, visit collegetalkonline.com or familytalkonline.com, or call 1-800-359TALK. When it comes to the fight against underage drinking, Responsibility Matters. Sincerely, C.A. Verdon CA&E Coordinator Anheuser-Busch Sales & Service Of New York, Inc.