MAKE A COMMITMENT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

The problem of substance abuse did not happen in one week nor is it going to
be solved in one week.

Each school across the Coast has different projects to educate our children
on the dangers of drug abuse. A very creative event called "black out" took
place Monday at Long Beach High School. A guest speaker talked to the
students about the dangers of drinking and driving and told them that every
15 minutes a person dies due to a drunk driver. Every 15 minutes throughout
the day a student was pulled out of class and their face was painted white;
wiping them out. The students who were wiped out could not talk or be talked
to. The students really got involved. These efforts are to be commended.

We as parents and members of our community have left the job of directing
our youth to the schools and law enforcement, and when it fails we blame
them. But it takes a whole community - that means parent interaction along
with these other agencies.

Denial and drugs are killing our children. Parents can talk all day, but it
is our actions that speak volumes.

Parents who think it is cool to be your child's friend are mistaken. Our
children don't need more friends; they need parents supporting them in
positive ways. I know this is a tall order because, as a parent of two
teens, it means I have to take responsibility and be consistent.

If you think your child is not exposed to this problem or that they would
never participate in such behavior, you'd better be certain! Substance abuse
is happening right in your back yard, so get your heads out of the sand.

My challenge to you is to make a commitment to help make this a place where
our youth have a brighter future. Let us be a visible sign that says I will
not tolerate drugs in my community.

Across America, yellow ribbons signify support of our country and those we
love who are fighting for freedom. Don't our kids deserve the same support?
Put a red ribbon on your car, your home, your business and your person. Make
a statement that says "I care." Make it a lifelong campaign.

Hope Wilson

Long Beach