Patch Users Take Issues to Task

A dust-up over the D.A.R.E. anti-drug youth education program taught by local police in schools has some parents questioning its value. (Click on the the story titles to add your own replies.)

"All D.A.R.E. has ever been is a 'feel-good' program that lets parents and teachers think they are actually doing something. By the time your kids enter school, you have already laid the foundation for your kids being substance abusers or not. If Mommy or Daddy polish off a case of Bud Light every night, they're going to be booze hounds, because Mommy and Daddy do it."
— foxxydrummer, Fenton-High Ridge Patch


"Why are police officers teaching drug safety, anyway? Police officers doing the teaching leads young minds to contemplate the illegality of drug use and the societal implications, rather than the very real, long-term detriments to the individual."
— Marjorie Schamburg Dellas, Chesterfield Patch (via Facebook)

Editor's note: Two decades ago, a study showed the nationwide D.A.R.E. program did little to deter drug use among youth as they got older. 

Other gripes:
 
"I can hardly believe that yet another restaurant is thinking of moving into the downtown Kirkwood area. I have to agree with Walter Smith that we are 'over-restauranting.' I am sure it is a fine establishment, but they are late to the party."— Terry Sibbitts, also Kirkwood-Webster Groves Patch

"Parking IS a good problem to have. Let Gianino's in!"
— Shari, Kirkwood-Webster Groves Patch

The good stuff:
"If you are reading this 'Anonymous Donor,' thank you SO much for what you are doing for my kids and all the other kids in the district. Your generosity is astounding! Praise God for you!"
— Robin Seaton Jefferson, Wentzville Patch

"This is just so exciting—even though I am a grandmother now and all of my children and grandchildren so far have attended the Wentzville School District schools. I am so proud of our district."
— Teresa Frey, also Wentzville Patch

Kids at home:
"We never tied it to chores. Chores were something you did just because you are in our family. I actually think it is important for children to have money of their own to decide how much to spend, save and give to others. It is an ongoing process."
— Jayne Langsam, Ladue-Frontenac Patch

"I always said that if I had kids, I would get a van with tinted windows so they could move about freely on a road trip, like I did, instead of being strapped down like astronauts. Too bad those days are gone."
— David Clark, Maplewood-Brentwood Patch