Pubdate: Tue, 09 May 2000 Source: News & Observer (NC) Copyright: 2000 The News and Observer Publishing Company Contact: The People's Forum, P.O. Box 191, Raleigh, N.C. 27602 Fax: (919)829-4872 Website: http://www.news-observer.com/ Author: Zhara Al-Nadaf ARMED AGAINST DRUGS... I read your May 2 news article and May 5 editorial about the DARE drug-education program, and I disagree. I think DARE is important for kids to learn. I have DARE in my school. We have Officer Savage, who is very good at teaching us about drugs. And many things about drugs, why they are bad, not to use them, and many ways to say no. Many kids who had DARE do not take drugs, smoke or drink alcohol. This information is very important to kids, teenagers and adults too. The DARE system helps kids know about drugs and not to take drugs. I didn't know what the names for drugs were until DARE. A lot of adults who didn't get DARE wish they could have had that teaching when they were our age. I'm 11 years old and already know that DARE is a big part of my life. And know that drugs aren't the way to go. Yes, I did already know not to take drugs before DARE, but DARE taught me many ways drug dealers can trick you, so you know how to say no to drug dealers. DARE is keeping kids out of drugs, alcohol and fights. I think DARE is great and we should keep it in our schools. ZHARA AL-NADAF Raleigh - --- MAP posted-by: Greg