FIRST ANTI-DRUG CLUB ESTABLISHED IN MIDDLE SCHOOL

Early use of alcohol and other drugs -- often by the age of 15 or younger --
is strongly associated with drug-related problems such as adult addictions,
according to information being presented this week to middle school
students.

Eagle Valley Middle School is the first middle school in the state to offer
a "Stand Tall Don't Fall" club, and its enthusiastic members are starting a
campaign this week to encourage their peers to choose an alcohol- and
drug-free lifestyle.

There are more than 15 high school and community groups in Nevada that now
have Stand Tall Don't Fall programs, said Linda Lang, EVMS's parent adviser
to the club, which focuses on standing united against underage drinking.

"We're now looking at starting this more at the middle schools because kids
will be able to keep a connection going and stay involved with the club when
they get into high school," she said.

In order to qualify Eagle Valley Middle School for the program, Lang and six
student representatives had to attend a weeklong camp in Las Vegas to learn
about the effects of alcohol and about program development. They also
discussed how to work with the media, the community and law enforcement.

The 20-member club has set a goal during "Red Ribbon Week" to normalize and
glamorize among their peers, the decision to not drink, Lang said.

Seventh-grade club members were excited about their weeklong campaign.

"It's a fun and exciting learning organization," said Matt Berggren.

"We're trying to show that drugs and drinking and driving aren't cool," said
B. J. Bradley.

Lindsey Brentlinger was enjoying taking part in the program.

"We get to do a lot of multimedia projects," she said.

"It's fun because we get to help out the school and help put on things like
this," said Heath Medeiros.

Club members started off the week Monday by having guest Dan Horrigan, from
the Breakthrough Crime Prevention Program, perform three mini-programs while
promoting a clean lifestyle.

A mock graveyard was set up near the cafeteria with the headstones of famous
people who have died either from their own substance abuse or at the hands
of a drug abuser.

Tuesday's event was a three-on-three basketball tournament during lunch,
"Slam Dunk - Alcohol and Drugs are Junk." Students also were encouraged to
wear red.

Today is parent involvement day. "Goodie cups" will be sent home to parents
that include a quiz to determine who knows more about drugs and alcohol,
parents or their teenagers? Red ribbons will be tied to vehicle antennas.

A red-ribbon balloon launch begins at 11 a.m. Students will sign a personal
pledge to remain alcohol- and drug-free, tie it to a balloon and release it.

On Thursday, students will wear their clothes backwards for "Turn Your Back
on Alcohol and Drugs."

Lang said she feels strongly about teaching youngsters as early as possible
about the dangers of usage and dependency.

"Awareness doesn't just suddenly start in high school," she said.