Stella 5th-graders complete D.A.R.E.

Lewiston Porter Sentinel, June 23, 2007

Stella fifth-grader Anna D’Aloise, winner of the D.A.R.E. essay contest, is congratulated by Lewiston Police officer Scott Stafford.

Lewiston Police officers Scott Stafford and John Penzotti were on hand for the Stella Niagara fifth grade D.A.R.E. graduation on Wednesday, June 13. Police Chief Ron Winkley, who has been teaching the D.A.R.E. program since 1989 and will be leaving the department at the end of this month, offered the opening remarks. “Say no to drugs with confidence,“ Winkley reminded the class.

Stafford, a D.A.R.E. instructor to Mrs. Joy Caldwell’s fifth grade, then presented the graduation certificates. “You have the tools,” Stafford advised the students, “It’s up to you. We’ll keep fighting the fight against drugs.” Along with their certificates, each student received an official D.A.R.E. T-shirt.

Anna D’Aloise, winner of the D.A.R.E. classroom essay contest, wrote about the adverse affects of drugs and alcohol on growing teen-agers. “My pledge is to stay away from drugs,” D’Aloise said, “and anything else that will harm me and my family.”

Long-time, community D.A.R.E. supporter Morgan Greenman, who has contributed to the success of the program, was also present to congratulate the students on their achievements.