Pubdate: Tue, 23 May 2000 Date: 05/23/2000 Source: Toronto Star (CN ON) Author: Emily Balon Mayor Mel Lastman: Have you ever attended a rave? Because it really sounds as if you are positively misinformed and out of touch regarding the whole situation. Please do not take this as an insult, okay? I am a 20-year-old intelligent university student, and, yes, I am a "raver." I am also extremely upset about the incorrect information now circulating regarding the rave culture. In the May 11 article, Council votes to suspend raves, you are quoted as saying that, "When people take this ecstasy . . . they go nuts . . . the cops cannot control them." Those who choose to take "e" are not usually looking for fights: They don't call it the "Love Drug" for nuthin', catch my drift? You also stated that the controlled "rave" atmospheres (for example, venues like the Better Living Centre) are ineffective as a means of improving the overall safety of the party. You said, "Let me tell you, it's not working." I, for one, disagree. I really doubt that the 24 arrests made during the April 22 party would have been possible if security (and a secure venue) had not been provided. As for young people squirming about in their own pools of vomit, I find that very hard to believe. You see, we so-called "ravers" have a habit of looking out for our friends, whether we have known them for years, or for a total of about five minutes. Now would you let your friends roll about in pools of vomit? I think not. Mayor Mel, please educate yourself before passing judgment on our culture. Pick up a copy of Tribe magazine, pop in a few House, Trance or Jungle CDs, and then cruise Web sites, such as Toronto Rave Connection, RaveSafe, or even Nocturnal Magazine.net. Trying on a pair of funky pink fuzzy pants might also be a good idea. And, Mel? I'm personally inviting you to join me at the next party. But please, enter into our world with an open mind. Nobody likes a bad vibe. Emily Balon, a.k.a. Nifty Pixie, Bradford, Ont.