DETER USE OF ALL DRUGS

Eric J. Andersen (Oct. 1 Pulse) believes that marijuana should be legalized
for a number of reasons. I would like to provide the real truth concerning
Andersen's misguided statements:

Andersen wrote, "If we are serious about reducing marijuana use by
children, we should legalize and regulate it the same way we regulate alcohol."

Legalization of alcohol has not kept the drug from our children. In fact,
it has made it even more accessible. His statement about the "success" of
the Dutch when they legalized marijuana 20 years ago does not go on to
address the increase in social costs to the taxpayers. My father-in-law
left Holland because of the ultra-liberal policies of that country. Its
unemployment is among the highest in Europe.

Andersen also stated that we should shift our focus from law enforcement
and incarceration to education and treatment. This is an insult to law
enforcement at every level.

October is Red Ribbon month, and our law enforcement officers are busy
providing presentations to schools, youth and church groups and any
organization that requests anti-drug presentations. This is in addition to
those agencies' normal daily duties of protecting and serving. During Red
Ribbon month, we need to deter the use of all drugs, including tobacco and
alcohol.

Marv Dorsey

Plattsmouth, Neb.