D.A.R.E. NEEDS TO STAY IN PLACE

Spokane Valley D.A.R.E. program "wasted money''? Discontinuing program "no
great loss''?

My son graduated from the Valley D.A.R.E. program this year. He and all the
fifth-graders enjoyed it immensely and learned so much from Officer Bailey
of the Spokane Sheriff's Office. My 11-year-old is as much at-risk as any
child in Spokane to being exposed to the increasing abuse of cigarettes,
drugs and alcohol in society. Because of this program, my son has learned,
and truly believes, that people who drink or use drugs are only headed for
trouble and are destroying precious brain cells.

Due to my son's reaction, I disagree that money for D.A.R.E. is wasted and
does not help prevent youth from drug use later in life. Any money spent in
helping our youth make good choices and educate them about the dangers of
drugs is an investment in their, and our, future.

Children who learn to say no and walk away from drugs at an early age are
stronger and more informed. Knowledge is power; used in the right way, it
can make a world of difference for all of us. Keep the D.A.R.E. program in
place and give power to our children.

Katy Gray
Spokane Valley
Spokane Valley, WA