ALCOHOL IS THE LARGER THREAT

I recently read your Oct. 10 editorial and was disappointed with the
author's choice to overlook the real issues behind Amendment 44.

There is absolutely no denying that marijuana is safer than alcohol. I
am a 21-year-old female who was kicked out of CU-Boulder for several
alcohol tickets. I am a chronic alcoholic. I have two DUIs and face
years of jail time for my most recent one, where I injured two
innocent people. I have been hospitalized countless times for alcohol
poisoning.

I have heard myself be called the "poster child" for SAFER.

The only time I don't feel the urge to drink is when I smoke
marijuana. I have never hurt myself or another while under the
influence of marijuana, nor have I been in a car accident while under
the influence.

I do not think the issues presented in your article regarding children
are relevant. I think the real issue here is safety. Kids are going to
drink. Adults are going to drink. But why not give them a safer
alternative that could help prevent alcohol addiction, vehicle
accidents and violence, to name a few?

We've all seen the horrible effects of alcohol in our communities,
families and on our college campuses. We've seen the tragic deaths,
and most every person can name someone they know who suffers from alcoholism.

Think about it: Would you rather a person smoke a joint and watch
cartoons or drink 10 shots and go kill you or someone you love in a
car accident? Which sounds safer to you?

Vote yes on Amendment 44. Make Colorado safer!

Katie O'Shea,

Boulder