Dear Editor,

We are aware of the tragic consequences of the sale and use of illegal drugs in our community. I deeply appreciate the organizations, law enforcement and individuals who are seeking to address this major problem and provide assistance to those addicted.

But have we forgotten that alcohol is the number one drug problem in our nation and likely in our community? The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse informs us that there are 88,000 alcohol-related deaths annually in our nation. It is the fourth leading cause of preventable death. There are approximately 10,000 deaths caused annually on our highways due to alcohol-impaired drivers.

Just because you make a drug legal does not make it ethically right or any less addictive, dangerous and destructive. The end result is exactly the same.

At the same time, we are being led to believe we are fortunate to have our very own distillery in Danville. They and others are offering “free tastes” of their products. Is this to motivate the purchase and consumption of even more of their product? Is the bottom line money?

Think of all the revenue that is generated for our city and county by legalization of this drug. As long as money is more important than human life, families, safety on our highways and overall peace and security, we can expect more of the same efforts.

I cannot believe most of our citizens are pleased with the promotions and efforts to encourage people to consume alcohol. If you are not pleased with this, let it be known.

I am concerned and praying for those who are addicted to any of the drugs available in our community. There are resources that will assist you in the effort to win the battle. I am also concerned and praying for those who have had a family member or friend killed or injured in an accident caused by an impaired driver. My prayers and support go to children whose parents have serious problems with alcohol or other drugs.

If this letter will cause one promoter, seller or user to give serious thoughts to the damage such products are producing in our community, that would be great. If it prevents one person from becoming addicted to any drug, wonderful! If it prevents one child from being abused as the result of a parent addicted to an illegal or legal drug, then it will be well worth any negative feedback I may receive from the letter.

Ernest L. Martin

Danville