Dear Pilot Editorial Staff and Advisers:

I first want to say I have the utmost respect for the Pilot and always enjoy reading each issue. For the first time since I’ve been at Lindbergh, however, I have a serious concern that I feel compelled to voice.

I’ll start with a question: would it be okay to advertise cigarettes to teenagers in our school paper? More, could we allow Marlboro to offer a 2 packs-for-1 deal as part of their ad? Obviously not. Why, then, are we taking money from tanning companies, AND including COUPONS to give kids a discount on something that is scientifically proven to cause deadly cancer? According to a study conducted by the National Cancer Institute, melanoma rates among kids and teenagers have risen every year between 1973 and the present. Even more alarming, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, "based on 7 worldwide studies people who first use a tanning before age 35 increase their risk for melanoma by 75 percent."

Recently, Maria Schellhardt gave a presentation to all Health classes about the passing of her mother from malignant melanoma. This presentation was advertised by our school web site and endorsed by the building. As a Civics teacher, I stand behind the paper’s right to print student opinions. However, I do not believe a public high school’s paper should go as far as to contradict the healthy messages delivered in classrooms for the purpose of gaining money. I write to request that the Pilot take a stand against this confusing and contradictory message to our students by refusing to place ads purchased by Tropix Tan or any other tanning company in the paper.

On the topic of student opinions, I’d also like to see the Pilot present an alternate view to Chris Schiavo’s "Out of the closet, into the bed-male tanning becomes an accepted practice." While Schiavo does mention the health concern, he also provides misinformation. Yes, "the risks involved with tanning are very real," but it is suggested that to avoid these risks that people should avoid tanning beds entirely, not "limit how often one tans." Perhaps a story on the upcoming run/walk hosted by the Schellhardt family’s organization: OUR MOM (Mark On Melanoma), would be a good balance to this editorial.

One thing I find ironic about "Out of the closet" is that on page 4 an article draws attention to the unhealthy habit of underage drinking, but on page 5 the paper promotes an activity that is also dangerous for kids. What can we do to make sure that our messages are not confusing young minds? I know our students will get confusing messages as adults, but we have a responsibility to promote healthy lifestyles to them in the short time we have them here at Lindbergh High School.

Thank you for hearing my concerns,

Susan E. Hill

Social Science Teacher

NHS Adviser, Mock Trial Coach, PD Building Representative

Lindbergh High School