RAVE SCENE

We Have Obligation To Teens' Future

It is important to note the rest of the story about rave parties and
ecstasy. This drug is pervasive in our society and is harmful to users -
especially with repeated use. It has been said that ecstasy is a gateway
drug to other drug use.

Parents need to know where their teens are and if their teens are where
they say they will be. Teens leaving all-night rave parties where ecstasy
is used are dangerously impaired behind the wheel. They are a crash waiting
to happen. Their reaction time and perception of the road is seriously
distorted.

Wisconsin has a small number of officers trained as drug recognition
experts. Many more are needed throughout the state in order to have an
impact on the rave scene. If enough officers were trained and available at
raves, our legislators would not hesitate to pass laws making ecstasy a
controlled substance. If that were the case, community governments would be
able to restrict public facility use for raves without fear of violating
anyone's rights.

As stakeholders in the future of our teens, every one of us in Wisconsin
has an obligation to see to it that they grow up healthy. We all need to
get to work.

Ken Tarney, Citizens Against Drug Impaired Drivers, Fox Point

YOUTHS NEED SAFE, DRUG-FREE ALTERNATIVES

How frightening to read in the headlines that teenagers are going to rave
parties and using the drug ecstasy, a dangerous drug ("Raves, ecstasy go
mainstream," Nov. 4). Not too long ago, the only worry was the use of
alcohol, which also has dire consequences through its use.

Between caring parents and concerned community - schools, churches and
businesses - there should be alternative choices for safe, enjoyable
recreational and social activities.

Primarily, parents, through admonition and example, must teach their
children from little on about the dangers of illegal drugs. The schools
also should be teaching the facts - when a person is drunk, he or she is
very ill, both mentally and physically, and this illness begins with the
first drink. To willfully make yourself sick - people do have a choice to
abstain - is dumb.

The only thing setting humans above the animals is our superior
intelligence and moral principles. To sacrifice our well-being in favor or
cheap thrills is doubly dumb. Don't be a dumb-dumb. Be smart; don't start.

Hazel V. Selbo, Cedarburg