D.A.R.E. GOLF TOURNAMENT SPOTS FILLING UP QUICKLY

By Joan Gandy Spots on the first D.A.R.E golf tournament are starting to
fill up as businesses and individuals realize the benefits children in the
city schools receive when they go through the program.

A maximum of 22 teams, with four players each, will compete in the
tournament May 22. The funds raised from the $240 per team entry fee will
go 100 percent to supplement the D.A.R.E. program's budget.

"We are funded by the United Way," explained D.A.R.E. officer James Orr.
"We are needing to supplement those funds. What our money goes to is
purchasing supplies for the kids and officer training."

More than just golfers are needed to make the event successful.
Sponsorships for $500, $250, $150, $100 and $50 are available for the tees
and greens. Businesses that contribute to the cause will be personally
recognized on signs made by Benjamin Russell High School students.

The seven-week program is for kindergarten, second, fourth and sixth
graders, and according to Orr provides essential skills for a safe adolescence.

"We give them the skills to say 'no' to offers to alcohol, illicit drugs
and tobacco," Orr said. "We talk about different types of pressure, from
friends, family and media. We teach them to make good choices."

To sign up for or sponsor the drug, tobacco and alcohol free tournament at
Lakewinds Golf Course, teams can contact the Alexander City D.A.R.E.
program at 329-6763. Checks can also be made payable to the Alexander City
Police D.A.R.E. program and mailed to Alexander City D.A.R.E. Program c/o
James Orr, P.O. box 943, Alexander City, Ala. 35011.