The Greater Mankato Anti-Violence Subcommittee this year has an emphasis on alcohol awareness, as alcohol affects more than just one person and continues to be an issue in the community.

Alcohol is best used as a beverage with food, at celebrations, family gatherings and always should be used in moderation.

Alcohol use, like many things in life, is not fair. In education, one student can have poor attendance and not give much effort and receive a better grade than a student with perfect attendance and strong study habits.

High-risk underage drinking has many variables and one common denominator. A consumer’s body type, genetics, food previously consumed, prescribed medications (most recommend no alcohol use) and illegal drugs used. The common denominator for all underage drinkers is incomplete brain chemistry development, which leads to the behaviors at-risk youths already are prone to experience as they mature.

With high-risk underage drinking, the brakes are off the chance-taking, at-risk behavior.

Live so you don’t interfere with other people’s lives — alcohol affects more than one person.