Discourage alcohol gimmicks

Here’s to the universities who took a stand to keep Fan Cans off shelves. From Boston College to Texas A&M, colleges are demanding responsible alcohol packaging. Local universities should do the same.

Fan Cans are beer cans being distributed in the colors of local universities. At the Greater Spokane Substance Abuse Council, we are concerned these cans appeal to underage college students. Last year, 5,000 preventable U.S. deaths were attributed to underage drinking. Research suggests minors who consume alcohol risk long-term memory and thinking impairment. Eastern Washington youth, from communities large and small, don’t need another incentive to drink. We need to send a message that we are not against the product, we simply don’t believe in promotions which may entice our youth to consume alcohol.

Students face enough challenges in the classroom and the real world today without making it more difficult by encouraging them to drink alcohol. As a community, we must ensure that these young women and men are not derailed from bright futures by slick marketing campaigns. Please encourage our local universities to join others nationwide in taking a stand to keep Fan Cans off local store shelves. School spirit shouldn’t pour from a beer can.

Ray Sacchi

DUI prevention coordinator

Greater Spokane Substance Abuse Council

Spokane