21-only law will steer freshmen the right way

The statistics of our underage drinking problem are appalling. It is hard for me to understand how any adults in our community could decide not to give the 21-only bar ordinance a chance. Surely everything else has been tried.

Since arriving in Iowa City in 1958, my life has been devoted to teaching violin to children. I am proud of the fine, self-disciplined and accomplished budding adults they are as they graduate from high school. I have high hopes for them, just as the parents and teachers of the University of Iowa's incoming freshmen do.

Freshman year is an important watershed in a student's life. Some students take advantage of all the university has to offer and gain wisdom. More succumb to peer pressure and the drinking culture, endangering their health, education and reputation.

These young adults are our hope for the future. Let us help them by voting “no” and giving the 21-only ordinance a chance to continue.

Doris Preucil

Iowa City