HUNTINGTON CAN BEAT DEADLY DRUG PROBLEM

I come to Huntington a few times a year and was there during the
tragedy of the murders of four teens. I live in Seattle, Wash., a city
much larger than Huntington, but I think that when it comes to a drug
culture encroaching on otherwise civilized life, size makes no difference.

Community policing was helpful, as were block watches and a strong
neighborhood association network. The city of Seattle invested in
matching grants to neighborhoods for various projects. An organized
neighborhood will beat back the thuggish and criminal activity
associated with drugs.

Also, there is a theory that those who are fishing for neighborhoods
look for areas where it is obvious there is no pride: broken and
boarded-up windows, abandoned cars, unkept lawns and an appearance
that the children rather then the parents are in control of the homes
and neighborhood.

If the elected, business, education, religious and parent leaders form
a united front with the police, you can beat back the encroachment.
Send a message to kids that you love them and care about them by
assuring them they have positive activities to engage in.

Huntington is a city worth saving, and if you do not nip the drug
thing in the bud, the erosion will be fast and exacting.

Sabiha Mason

Seattle, Wash.