FIGHTING FOR WHAT IS RIGHT

We have read the numerous articles about Larry Tannahill's challenge
to the Lockney Independent School District's drug testing policy, and
we could not help but be astounded by the reaction of the local
townspeople.

It is our opinion that Mr. Tannahill is doing exactly the
right thing by raising this challenge. Our family has taken similar
steps in Oklahoma where our children attend school. Last summer we
challenged the Tecumseh School Board's drug testing policy that
requires urine tests for certain academic courses.

This is something that was not done on simply a whim. Going
against what seems on the surface to be a very popular decision
by the school board is indeed difficult.

We have been told more than once: "If your kids aren't
doing drugs, they shouldn't be afraid to take the drug test," or, "If
I have to take a drug test at work, my kids should have to take one,
too."

What we are hearing is this: You must prove your innocence.

We could not disagree more!

We are proud that Mr. Tannahill has decided
to take a public stand against drug testing of the students in his
son's school and would like to show our support.

We also feel that those in Lockney who support him behind the
scenes should also support him in public.

In closing, we would like to share a quote from Supreme
Court Justice William O. Douglas that sums up this situation: "As
nightfall does not come all at once, neither does oppression. In both
instances, there is twilight. And it is in such twilight that we all
must be aware of change in the air - however slight - lest we become
unwitting victims of the darkness."

DAVID & LORI EARLS,
Tecumseh, Okla.