Miss Connecticut Outstanding Teen, Rachael Ramonas, Involved in Underage Drinking Bust

Rachael Ramonas, 17, Miss Connecticut Outstanding Teen America of 2008, was involved in a massive underage drinking bust in her home in Wolcott, Conn. Ramonas' parents were out of state when the incident happened. Upwards of 20 people were charged with underage drinking according to the Chicago Tribune. The party ballooned out of control and resulted in police being called to the scene.

Rachael Ramonas is not the first pageant winner to have found herself in legal trouble involving drugs or alcohol. Most notably Tara Conner, Miss USA 2006, was fired by Donald Trump in a highly publicized controversy.

As a parent, trying to keep your teenagers from making mistakes with alcohol sometimes feels like an impossible mission. Alcohol abuse for underage teenagers is as high as ever and there are ways to help protect them and keep them from making life-changing mistakes like Rachael Ramonas.

1) Communication: Keeping alcohol off the taboo subject matter can really open your child up to sharing situations they have been in and allow you to help guide them through making the correct choice. This can also be a learning experience for you, seeing all of the extremely difficult situations your children face on a daily basis.

2) Educate: Hearing the horror stories from teachers and school programs is one thing but getting specific examples from their parent can make a huge difference in relating the danger's of alcohol abuse to their life. Use a family member or close friend that has an alcohol story you can use as a training tool for your teenager to help guide them through tough choices.

3) Lead By Example: It's hard to expect your child to listen to the dangers of alcohol abuse when their parent or guardian abuses. Use discretion when having a cocktail or glass of wine. Glamorizing alcohol will only desensitize your child to the use and make them more prone to trying alcohol when offered.

4) Be Present: Many times a teenager cries out with subtle phrases or actions. Be present when they are talking to you and listen to what they have to say. The door isn't open often and you can't afford to miss your chance to step in.

5) Current Events: The story of Rachael Ramonas is a perfect example of using these tragic stories for your benefit. Many parents find it hard to bring up Alcohol as a topic and using current events in the news it can give you an excuse to start a dialogue with your teenager.

Rachael Ramonas will probably not be able to keep her scholarship and other prizes earned through her competition but her story gives further light on the ongoing struggle we are having with teen drinking. Remember if you don't talk to your teenager about alcohol and drugs, someone else will.

More information: http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-rachael-ramonas-090225-ht,0,6688114.story