SPA: VOTE 'NO' ON POT INITIATIVE

The Summit Prevention Alliance (SPA) board of directors and staff
strongly encourage voters in Breckenridge to reject the marijuana
initiative proposed by Sensible Breckenridge.

SPA was founded in 1985 by Summit County Government as the Summit
County Alcohol and Drug Task Force. Since then, we have worked
tirelessly with community organizations, parents, and children to
reduce the prevalence of alcohol and drug use by the youth of Summit County.

We have learned much in the last 25 years of marijuana research,
including the following:

The common myth is that marijuana is safe. The fact is, marijuana
puts kids at risk. It is harmful to young bodies and minds that are
still developing. Marijuana affects the brain and can impair mental
health, leading to increased depression and anxiety. Some health
risks associated with smoking marijuana are similar to those posed by tobacco.

Kids who use marijuana regularly show a decrease in academic
achievement. Even short-term marijuana use has been shown to cause
problems with memory, learning, cognitive development, and problem solving.

Recent research shows that kids who use marijuana weekly are more
likely to get in trouble with the law, struggle in school, have
delinquent friends, engage in sex, or find themselves in risky and
dangerous situations.

We have worked hard to change the social norms of Summit County in a
very difficult resort environment that profits from promoting the
"party culture." This initiative will harm those efforts, and we are
extremely concerned about the impact it will have on Summit County
youth and their families.

Sensible Colorado's contention that marijuana is safer than alcohol
is only valid if you believe that either substance is healthy for you
and your children. Given the amount of resources Breckenridge invests
to deal with alcohol-related fights, sexual assaults, and DUIs, it is
important to recognize the damaging impact alcohol abuse has on our
community. Promoting marijuana as an alternative to alcohol defies
logic. It is not supported by research and conveys an extremely
confusing message to our youth. This is an extremely discouraging
message to send to families who may be considering a move to
Breckenridge, and it contradicts positive efforts to attract new
families and improve the quality of life for local residents.

Our mission is to promote healthy behaviors and lifestyles in Summit
County. We do not believe this initiative would contribute to
Breckenridge's health or lifestyle in a positive manner.

Summit Prevention Alliance

Board of directors and staff