Pubdate: Sun, 22 May 2005 Source: Lufkin Daily News (TX) Copyright: 2005 Cox Texas Newspapers, L.P. - The Lufkin Daily News Contact: http://www.lufkindailynews.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3616 Author: Raylan Long SUPPORTS D.A.R.E. PROGRAM A few days ago I ended the D.A.R.E. program. We were told that this was going to end in Huntington and other county schools because of lack of funds. I want to keep the D.A.R.E. program because it is a good informal program. Officer Bridwell taught us well and I don't think it should end. I learned that smoking can cause bad breath, lung cancer and heart disease. Over 400,000 Americans die each year from tobacco related causes. Alcohol slows down the brain and can cause coma and death. Illegal drugs like marijuana and cocaine can cause health, family and legal problems. I think all fifth graders should have the opportunity to learn how to say no to drugs. Please fund the D.A.R.E. program. Raylan Long, age 11, Huntington - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom