Bells to call attention to fetal alcohol issues

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Groups are gathering in Columbia to draw attention to fetal alcohol disorders. Members of the South Carolina Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Collaborative are sponsoring a ringing of the bells Monday on the north steps of the Statehouse. The event is marking Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Awareness Day and includes the reading of Gov. Nikki Haley’s proclamation. Organizers say participants will ring bells nine times on the ninth day of the ninth month as a reminder of the nine months during pregnancy when a woman should not consume any alcohol.