PROHIBITING DRINKING MAKES IT MORE ATTRACTIVE TO YOUTH

I've just returned from a month in Europe to read the Tallahassee
Democrat's story regarding what local, county and state authorities are
doing to curb underage drinking (news article, Aug. 30).

While in Europe I spent a great deal of time in the neighborhood pubs of
numerous countries, where having a pint and discussing the day is
considered the social norm. Several of our conversations revolved around
American drinking laws.

On Friday and Saturday nights, the pubs did indeed play host to those of
the 17 to 20 age group, but most were there with a parent or a friend of
one. Most were perfectly content to sip drinks and converse the night away.

America and its authorities can continue to shove their collective heads in
the sand at the notion that prohibiting drinking makes it all the more
appealing. They can ignore the exact same prohibition period mentioned in
your article that shows this as fact. And they can continue to spend
taxpayers' money on non-effective law enforcement to attempt to quell the
rising crises.

Legalize alcohol for all ages or don't, but quit wasting my dollar going
'round about it.

JACKI BARBER