Shaquille O'Neal, Congressman, High School Principal: What Do They Have In Common?

What would you do if you were a rich, famous athlete, with a unique name, financially secure but ready to move into a grown-up job that would give meaning to the rest of your life? Shaquille O'Neal attacks the practice of binge drinking on college campuses. Congressman Morgan Griffith supports his efforts, as does the new principal at Blacksburg High School. Here's a quote from the Congressman's e-newsletter:

"The statistics are alarming. More than 10 million youths, ages 12 to 20, in America report they have consumed alcohol in the past 30 days. Approximately 30 percent of teenagers admit that they drink to get drunk. And 36 percent of college students report binge drinking.

 

"As we all know, this isn’t just a problem on college campuses. More and more, we are learning that our high school kids and, in some cases, our middle school kids are also susceptible to it. As a junior in high school, Ninth District resident Brian Kitts’ life was forever changed when his mom was killed by a classmate of his. As a testament to the human spirit, once he worked through the pain and tragedy, Brian admits he was able to find clarity and strength. He has since dedicated his life to working with kids. Recently named the new principal of Blacksburg High, I commend Brian for dedicating his life to helping students."

 

This web site officially wishes Principal Kitts success in helping students say no to alcohol.