Pubdate: Thu, 17 Nov 2005
Source: Phoenix New Times (AZ)
Copyright: 2005 New Times, Inc.
Contact:  http://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/640
Author: Tianne Pitz

METH AND THE CITY

An out-of-reach problem?: I just finished reading the excellent
articles on the methamphetamine problem in Phoenix ("The Perfect
Drug," Joe Watson, Robert Nelson and Paul Rubin, November 3
(http://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/Issues/current/perfect.drug/index.html)).
Thank you so much, New Times, for once again being honest with the
public.

The drug problem is so out of reach now that it seems as though there
is no hope.

I know many who have been brought down by meth. Why is it that the
media as a whole do not address the drug problem in our state?
Occasionally, we will hear tidbits of information about a drug bust or
an addict who commits a crime. However, it is more of an
out-of-sight/out-of-mind attitude. The majority of people around here
think that as long as they don't hear about it, it's not their problem.

What they don't realize is that methamphetamine addiction affects us
all. It could be your child, your child's bus driver, your postal
carrier, your boss, or anyone, for that matter.

Until our country actually sees illegal drugs as they really are,
there is no hope. That's why I thank you again for being so open and
honest -- whether the public wants to hear it or not. It's great that
somebody's paying attention, and for that reason I will continue to be
a New Times fan.

TIANNE PITZ

Apache Junction 
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MAP posted-by: SHeath(DPF Florida)