Lately, I’ve taken a break from the spotlight and action-packed moments I usually encounter while interning with NLPGimages, but I’ve busied myself with other projects. Meanwhile, I’m attending a national leadership conference for underage drinking at the Rosen Shingles Creek Hotel in Orlando.

Although NLPGimages is known for shooting nightlife and celebrities, it also covers baby showers, birthday parties and government conferences.

So far, the leadership conference has been far more interesting than I expected. I’ve met members of law enforcement and students who collaborate to assess underage drinking by implementing strict compliance rules via the Underage Drinking Enforcement Training Center.

Listening to speakers who have lost relatives due to underage drinking, alcohol addiction, poisoning and date rape has been an educational opportunity. Some stories were complete tear jerkers. 

Although targeted for a different audience, I almost wish I could’ve had a similar class structure opposed to First Year Florida and the online alcohol course requirements at the University of Florida. The conference has been far more interactive and has great food; needless to say, I’m enjoying my stay!

On another note, since several of you reading the post are of legal drinking age, please do your part. Encourage minors to wait their turn and stand against underage drinking.

I had the pleasure of meeting Kathi Meyer, who lost her daughter due to underage drinking. Stay tuned for her story.