PERSONAL CHOICES

I, for one, would like to see the MBI dissolved and the funds funneled into
more important and relevant issues such as education, transportation, jobs,
infrastructure and housing.

No one has ever made a cogent argument to me as to why "vices" should be
illegal. The current "war on drugs" mirrors activities during Prohibition
- -- with the same results: crime, corruption, black markets, etc.

Prostitution and pornography are the oldest and probably second-oldest
professions in the world. Despite 2,000 years of laws, bans and penalties,
they still survive -- probably stronger than ever. Is it time we get the hint?

Until several years ago, gambling would have fallen into this "vice"
category. That was before the states instituted the lotteries. Now, it is
accepted behavior, with the proceeds doing some good for the states.

Certainly these "vices" are not for everyone -- but neither is golf,
bowling or tennis. It seems to me that some people want to keep these vices
illegal primarily because they don't want other people doing it.

Let's wake up, disband the MBI, use the funds productively, enforce upon
complaint or nuisance, and otherwise deal with important and compelling
issues facing our region and state.

RICK GIESBRANDT

Altamonte Springs