Pubdate: Thu, 29 Nov 2001 Source: Athens Banner-Herald (GA) Copyright: 2001 Athens Newspapers Inc Contact: http://www.onlineathens.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1535 Author: Kenneth C Straughter Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/dare.htm (D.A.R.E.) CLARKE D.A.R.E. OFFICER CLARIFIES A RECENT STATEMENT In the Nov. 27 article, "D.A.R.E.'s bites out of budget worth cost, Edwards says," I was paraphrased as saying that in my last class of the day (at Barnett Shoals Elementary) all but three children said they had family members who had been involved in some sort of criminal activity. That was not an accurate statement. During the lesson at Barnett Shoals Elementary, we talked about how youth gangs and criminal activities in our communities affect the way we live. I shared a story about my home being burglarized. The students were then asked, how many knew of criminal activities in their community or have been victims and how have those activities changed the way you live daily. Many of the students agreed that there are criminal activities in their communities and it affects their lives and families. None of the elementary students said their family members are involved in criminal activities. My statement was not aimed at Barnett Shoals Elementary School nor was it a reflection of the school's student body, teachers or parents. I just happened to be at Barnett Shoals Elementary during this interview. However, many of our children do see, hear and witness these negative activities. The D.A.R.E. program, with help from the school system and community, can assist them in making positive choices by teaching them not only the tools to resist, but the consequences of their actions. Kenneth C. Straughter Clarke, County Sheriff's Office, deputy - --- MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager