Lunging Bear is a Native American, a Powhatan warrior named Richard. He gave us information on the consequences of drugs and alcohol. Lunging Bear lives in White Haven, Pennsylvania. For 22 years, Lunging Bear has gone around publicly speaking to children and teenagers, telling them why they shouldn't mess around with drugs and alcohol. He started taking alcohol and drugs in the 6th grade with friends to fit in and be cool. That's how he almost died. He fell down and started bleeding through his nose, mouth, and ears. Lunging Bear heard a voice that said, "Do you want to live or die?" He knew he had to change his ways if he wanted to live. After Lunging Bear stopped using drugs and alcohol he became a storyteller, teaching lessons against drugs and alcohol.

Lunging Bear's performance was strong and powerful. He wore his sacred outfit. It included a breastplate that was made out of buffalo bones. His medicine bag was made out of a turtle shell and rested on his side. He also had his talking stick and drum. His face was painted with the color of his tribe to hide his expressions. The colors on his face were red, yellow, black, and white.

His presentation went very well. Lunging Bear loves everyone and said we can visit him at www.saynotheindianway.ebz.com anytime. Even though we already know not to use drugs, he made us feel more self-confident to say, "NO" to drugs and alcohol.

Letters to Lunging Bear

Dear Lunging Bear, July 12, 2001
I was glad you came to Camp Madison. You helped us with our thoughts about the difficulties in our lives. You taught us to say no to drugs. That was nice. You taught us how to be strong. I am eight years old and my name is Sasha. Thank you for teaching us stuff.
Love, Sasha Russell

Dear Lunging Bear, July 12, 2001
My name is Shakira, the girl who played the fly at Camp Madison. I am nine and a half years old. The stories you told were very funny. Oh, yeah. I am half Indian because my great grandmother is Cherokee. Was that bear mat made from a real bear? I think it was because I felt the claws and it felt like a real bear. I would like you to know that I love you also. I am happy that you are my brother because you can teach me how to be a real warrior. All those things you had were neat. Thank you for the gifts.
Love always, Shakira Austin