National speakers to present at Teen Straight Talk

Teen Straight Talk, a free program designed to motivate adults and their children to talk about topics such as abstinence, teen pressures, sex education and responsible decision making, will be presented noon to 4:30 p.m. Nov. 7. The event will take place at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Academic Classroom Building, 3601 Fourth St.

Three national speakers will present:

Janine Sherman, co-author of “Start Talking: A Girl’s Guide for You and Your
Mom about Health, Sex, or Whatever.” The book contains more than 113 questions girls ask us every day about, well, everything: periods, sex, relationships, guys, eating, exercise, and more. There are also great ways to get your mom involved. This book can be a fresh start for both of you. The truth is, daughters want to talk—to their moms. And, moms can learn how to listen—from their daughters. Start Talking is the place to start!

Calvin Sims, also Cowboy Sims, is a national motivational speaker and author of 6 children's books called, "The Little Legends Series" as well as "When the Student is Ready, the Teacher Will Appear."

Janet Realini, M.D., creator of San Antonio's program called Project WORTH to help decrease that city's high teen pregnancy and STD rates. She also developed the "Big Decision" presentation on comprehensive sex education.

Sessions will be presented by health care professionals. Free informational goodie bags and books will be distributed. Community programs will have booths to explain their available resources.

For more information, contact Teen Straight Talk Co-Chairs Kathleen McPherson at (806) 743-2463, ext. 229 or e-mail kathleen.mcpherson@ttuhsc.edu, or Linda Brice at (806) 241-3652 or linda.brice@ttuhsc.edu.