Due to illness in the family, it was difficult to get out for meetings, forums or presentations related to this week’s sheriff’s election. Therefore, we appreciate the various articles appearing in The Democrat, particularly the bio series offering standard information on each candidate.

In that regard, I would remind voters and candidates that the DARE program has been determined largely ineffective subsequent to a series of longitudinal studies.

The DARE executives have acknowledged this finding, and they are currently working on a new improved version, yet to pass scientific muster.

There are programs that have been found to be effective in preventing teen violence and drug abuse. I encourage the candidate-elect to review these programs and, move as quickly as possible, to implementation.

Again, my thanks to The Democrat for excellent pre-election coverage.

Rob Conger

Natchez resident