LETTERS: Well done, Iowa universities

Daily Editorial Staff,

Congratulations on behalf of the Story County Prevention Policy Board for taking a stand against the Bud Light “fan cans” that have permeated our community of late.

The Daily’s Editorial Board is to be commended for directly addressing the impact these new cans have on students returning to Iowa State. Whether it’s the pride of finishing the first year of college or excitement of returning after a summer off, students arrive in Ames and show solidarity in cardinal and gold. Anheuser-Busch’s attempt to intertwine with ISU spirit in the form of color-coordinated cans is directly targeting college students and encouraging them to use the products they sell.

The college student population nationwide has binge drinking rates of over 30 percent, so marketing directly to them with items that both support their college and encourage alcohol use directly influences the quantity and rate of alcohol consumption. This promotional campaign is dangerous to ISU students, the campus and our community.

Iowa State University is also to be commended for directly addressing this issue with Anheuser-Busch. The university’s proactive approach toward addressing the copyright issue with the company reflects dedication to the public health issue of the over consumption of alcohol among ISU supporters.

Story County Prevention Policy Board