Here is a copy of my prepared remarks as they were presented on November 9, 2004:

With the current controversy over Planned Parenthood, I have heard a variety of arguments. My attention is called to two controversial issues that affect me as a teenager. The first is abortion, which Planned Parenthood works to keep safe, legal, and rare. With that said, I would prefer to discuss the issue more relevant to today's debate, which is the building's proximity to a public high school of nearly 1500 students. My purpose in speaking today is not to discuss abortion, but rather to explain why Planned Parenthood is an essential service to teenagers.

Opponents have argued that the building is too close to Albemarle High School -- that its convenience to teens will encourage otherwise uninterested teenagers to further explore sex. I disagree. Others today have argued today that Planned Parenthood does not fit the neighborhood. Planned Parenthood is about education, and in that respect it is more than at home near a high school. Those who will seek Planned Parenthood's services are already either sexually active, or actively curious, and in their case, low cost, confidential guidance close-by encourages responsibility.

Closing this building, or moving it farther away from the school, will not suddenly cause teenagers to make healthier choices. The building's location is actually ideal. I feel that having it where it is now is more likely to promote healthier choices among those students who are already sexually active. For instance, say they were to visit Planned Parenthood on their way home from school. Sexually experienced teenagers are more likely to visit the center than their abstinent peers. While they are there, they can experience a supportive and informative staff that will openly discuss matters of sexuality and risky behavior, as well as suggest healthy alternatives. OPENLY DISCUSS THEM -- that is exactly why the center is needed, and why it must be so convenient. Some kids don't like to talk to their parents about these things. But the truth is that if they have no one to talk to, they are bound to make bad decisions. The conversation needs to start somewhere, and if not at home, what better place than down the street?

Elizabeth Snook (electronic mail, November 11, 2004)