Have a safe, sober New Year By Cindy Chaney, Clearwater Substance Abuse Workgroup Program Coordinator Holiday parties give people more chances to use drugs and alcohol. The increase in drug-and alcohol-related tragedies are at least 50 percent during the holiday season. Clearwater Substance Abuse Workgroup wishes to remind everyone of this sad statistic and that it is strictly illegal to host alcohol related parties for persons under the age of 21. The holidays may mean that your child is more exposed to substance abuse whether it's an uncle who drinks too much during your holiday dinner or a friend or family member who offers your child pot at a New Year's Eve party. The incidence of alcohol poisoning of children is common during the holiday season. So during this time it is especially important that parents keep their children safe and talk with them about staying away from drugs and alcohol. Parents, be a good role model for your children. Holiday Celebration Tips: Let your child know what you expect. Tell your child that adults may be drinking during the holidays but under no circumstances are they allowed to consume alcohol. Plan a nonalcoholic holiday party with your child so children learn that they can have fun without alcohol. Send out invitations with alcohol and drug free messages on them, and make sure the guests know that yours will be a substance-free event. For your holiday meal, let your child help you prepare and serve traditional drinks without alcohol. You can make nonalcoholic cider, eggnog, or punch. Make sure your holiday festivities involve lots of delicious-and nonalcoholic-food, which your child can help you make. If your older child is going to a holiday event, call ahead to make sure that the event will be alcohol and drug free. Check in with the party planner to see what measures are in place to keep alcohol out. Remember there are those in our community who have trouble controlling their own substance use during New Years and other holidays. These friends will thank you for supporting their recovery. Recipes for a Really Fun Party: Many unique drinks can add "flavor" to your party by giving your guests healthy, tasty alternatives to alcoholic beverages. Enjoy! For more recipes, please send an e-mail to: csawcindy@cebridge.net. Non-Alcohol Citrus Collins Fill a 10-12 oz glass with ice cubes 2 oz. Orange juice 1 oz lemon juice 1 oz flavored syrup Fill with club soda. Garnish with an orange slice or a cherry Non-Alcohol Mai Tai 1/2 cup pineapple juice 1/4 cup orange juice 1/4 cup club soda 1 tbsp. Cream of coconut 1 tbsp. Grenadine syrup In a shaker or tall glass, combine ingredients; shake or stir to blend. Add crushed ice Wishing you and your family a safe and drug free New Year.