Pubdate: Thu, 17 Oct 2002
Source: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (WI)
Copyright: 2002 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Contact:  http://www.jsonline.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/265
Author: Sarah Wainright
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/raves.htm (Raves)

ARTICLE PORTRAYED THE SCENE AS IT IS

Thank you for running such a balanced article about the rave in Milwaukee 
("Ravers make their return," Oct. 14). As a Milwaukee high school student, 
I started attending parties in 1996 and have since witnessed the ups and 
downs of the Midwest rave scene.

It is a rare occurrence that our music scene isn't demonized and 
sensationalized by politicians and scandal-addicted "journalists." I 
applaud reporter James H. Burnett III's accurate portrayal of a spectrum of 
average ravers. His interviews let the rave-goers speak for themselves, 
none of whom fit the inaccurate stereotype of some drugged-out kid 
attending an "All-Night Teenage Dance Party of Death." They're articulate 
and well-adjusted dance and music enthusiasts enjoying their unique, 
vibrant and oft-maligned culture.

Also appreciated was the highlight of the DanceSafe volunteers - who 
traveled from Madison and Chicago, respectively - who are average people 
who care about their fellow ravers, and put forth their best efforts to 
keep kids safe whether they choose to use drugs or not. I commend Burnett's 
article as a model of fair and accurate reporting.

Sarah Wainright, DanceSafe Chicago liaison, Chicago
- ---
MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager