[NEohioPAL]Desperate mom shares a BIG THANK YOU

[cherylcarter]

I got over 50 e-mail responses in four day!  Your intimate stories from
personal experiences, letters of advice and words of encouragement was just
what I needed. I actually read 3 of the letters in front of my son's band
members and parents at a group meeting we had last week. When the meeting
was over my son pulled me to the side and said the letters were pretty cool.
I was able to show him that not all musicians spoke pot and that many who
have wished they never started.

We are not out of the woods yet - we have a plan and my son (and the band)
understands my zero tolerance stance.

I was so moved by your support and kind words. Many of you mentioned that
you would speak to the band and I am working on making that happen. I want
to also thank those who are trying to contact The Black Keys. Maybe
something will come from that as well. The more we talk with these kids the
more of an impact we can make.

I learned in the last couple of weeks that 60% of all high school students
will try pot before they graduate. Many will get hooked and move on to
harder drugs. This is a real issue that all parents have to face.

I have had parents ask to see your letters, stories, etc. If its ok with you
I would like to share them. I will delete all names & email addresses. If
you rather I not share your story just let me know. Maybe we are on to
something. Musicians caring about musicians.

I did have one lady call but the message was cut off during the phone
number. Please try again. I would like to talk with you.

Not as desperate anymore,

Cheryl
330-760-0601

-----Original Message-----
From: cherylcarter [mailto:cherylcarter at neo.rr.com]
Sent: Sunday, May 07, 2006 9:14 AM
To: Neohiopal at Lists. Fredsternfeld. Com
Subject: Desperate mom needs musician role model for son



I am the parent of a 16 year bass player who truly believes it is his right
of passage as a musician to smoke pot. All his idols do!

His band loves the Black Keys. Does anyone know the Black Keys personally?
Would they speak out against smoking? I have been told that they too are
smokers but maybe they have some stories that could help re-direct these
kids. So where does a desperate mom go besides the usual family counseling,
punishments, etc. (which we are doing) I am trying to look beyond the
obvious and find some people who can really relate to his thoughts and
ideas.

He is a honors student getting good grades (for now) but he is beginning to
go down this wrong path. I am in search of a local musician or musicians who
care enough to come talk to his band and explain why not all musicians smoke
pot. Or maybe some real stories of why they shouldn't. Just someone who
knows what it is like to be a musician and want to go down this dangerous
path.


Please call or e-mail if you can help.

Thank you,

Cheryl 330-760-0601