Pubdate: Sat, 01 Sep 2001 Source: Tallahassee Democrat (FL) Copyright: 2001 Tallahassee Democrat. Contact: http://www.tdo.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/444 Author: Jacki Barber PROHIBITING DRINKING MAKES IT MORE ATTRACTIVE TO YOUTH I've just returned from a month in Europe to read the Tallahassee Democrat's story regarding what local, county and state authorities are doing to curb underage drinking (news article, Aug. 30). While in Europe I spent a great deal of time in the neighborhood pubs of numerous countries, where having a pint and discussing the day is considered the social norm. Several of our conversations revolved around American drinking laws. On Friday and Saturday nights, the pubs did indeed play host to those of the 17 to 20 age group, but most were there with a parent or a friend of one. Most were perfectly content to sip drinks and converse the night away. America and its authorities can continue to shove their collective heads in the sand at the notion that prohibiting drinking makes it all the more appealing. They can ignore the exact same prohibition period mentioned in your article that shows this as fact. And they can continue to spend taxpayers' money on non-effective law enforcement to attempt to quell the rising crises. Legalize alcohol for all ages or don't, but quit wasting my dollar going 'round about it. JACKI BARBER - --- MAP posted-by: Keith Brilhart