Open Forum

Last week an article appeared on the front page of The Dispatch regarding an incident which occurred at a YMCA student dance. The information was essentially correct. There was an altercation between two students. And there was a student with a closed pocketknife in his pocket. At a time when the Y, and our community's youth, so definitely need our support, it's important that this situation be judged for what it is: a brief problem during a fun, well-supervised social event.

These dances have become one of the few opportunities outside of school that these young people have to get together as a group in a well-supervised environment. Incidents such as the one reported are unfortunate and must be taken seriously. But they are to be expected. Disagreements and poor judgment can happen just as easily at school, at home, at the mall, and at the Y. It's essential that we remember that organizations such as the YMCA are part of a much needed solution to help our kids learn how to resolve differences and grow positive relationships. It's not always an easy job, but one we all need to encourage and support.

Carol Phelps

Brainerd