VSAAC, in conjunction with the Local Prevention Councils (LPCs) is teaming up with Valley police departments and local schools to reduce underage drinking and substance abuse during prom and graduation season. The campaign, which begins in May, is designed to educate both parents and youth about the civil and criminal liabilities and health consequences of underage drinking. Features of the campaign include:

•Airing of an anti-drinking public service announcement on Comcast Cable throughout the months of May and June.

•Distribution of stickers reading "Live Long Enough to Smell the Flowers – Celebrate Sober" via local florists who have agreed to place them on all prom corsage and boutonniere orders.

•Mass distribution of letters and flyers to all parents of Valley high school Juniors and Seniors. The letters/flyers will detail the legal consequences of underage drinking, explain the social host ordinances, and provide Valley statistics about underage drinking.

•Presentation of the HEADS UP Program at Ansonia, Derby, Seymour, and Emmett O’Brien High Schools.

•Distribution of student information packets and anti-drinking/substance abuse posters to all Valley schools (banners with anti-drinking/ substance abuse messages will also be available on loan to area schools)

•Text messaging initiative to assist parents in sending text messages of love and safety to student cell phones on Prom/Graduation nights (see right-hand column).