DJ Benny DL from "ATFM Radio" paid a visit to East Lambton Elementary School on Tuesday and shared his knowledge that music can help students deal with bullying.
     "Everyone is affected by bullying at one time or another and I am here to show you how to deal with this problem head on," said Bruce Langford, a teacher and musician who portrays Benny DL in his presentation to students.
     Using videos, music and role playing, Langford made presentations to three groups. He gave students something to improve respect and help them build self esteem. The Intermediate program was more intense with graphic videos and questions which prompted the students to answer honestly. A musical program was presented to the Junior and Primary students but the message was the same, show RESPECT to others.
     "Why are people picked on?" asked Langford. "It could be the way they look, their name, how they walk, and possibly if they are smarter than others. Or it could be the colour of their skin, if they wear glasses, they are overweight or their actions. A big reason could be caused by jealousy and they may want to build their own self-confidence by picking on others."
     Langford said some name calling and comments stay with a person for years. Those making such comments have no idea what an impact their cruel words can have on a sensitive person.

      Langford received suggestions from his audience on ways to make friends. Be nice, be loyal, don't tease, don't talk behind their back, and don't be angry but the best suggestion was to be yourself to make a good friend.
    To stop being a bully, change your friends, attitude, behaviour, and apologize to the person you hurt. Talk to a teacher or parent and ask them to help you.
      Langford is a music teacher with the Thames Valley Board of Education and is on a year's leave to travel the province with his presentation. He is originally from the Kerwood area but resides in Mossley. He shares his powerful message with young people in the hopes of making every student more aware of how they hurt others by their words or actions.
      His aim is to educate and entertain using music, drama and dialogue in an effort to make a genuine positive difference in our world.
      To learn more about "Benny DL and ATFM", call 1-519-269-9837 or check Langford's website www.atfm.ca
     ATFM? A Time For Music!