Pubdate: Sun, 26 Oct 2003 Source: Messenger-Inquirer (KY) Copyright: 2003 Messenger-Inquirer Contact: http://www.messenger-inquirer.com Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1285 Author: Jim Acquisto Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v03/n1171/a07.html FLETCHER/PENCE EAGER TO ADDRESS LOCAL DRUG PROBLEMS When I was recently contacted by the Ernie Fletcher/Steve Pence campaign and asked my opinion of the drug problems in western Kentucky, I was eager to give input, although somewhat skeptical, and a little surprised. No statewide political campaign had ever solicited information from me during my 20 years in law enforcement. I was already impressed with Pence from his time as U.S. Attorney for Western Kentucky, and the effective prosecution of high-level drug traffickers by him and his staff. I was extremely gratified that the campaign genuinely desired to understand the drug issues in Kentucky. Since then, I have seen the campaign address these issues with strategies aimed at education, enforcement and treatment, which will enable us to more vigorously attack this evil plague at a lesser impact to our state budget. The Fletcher/Pence team intends to expand already successful local efforts, rather than dictating policy from Frankfort, thereby maintaining community input and influence. Frankly, I was puzzled as to why the campaign had begun a dialogue with me. As I discussed this with my wife, Robin, I asked: "Why has no campaign ever asked me for this information?" She answered: "Maybe no one has ever cared." Jim Acquisto Owensboro - --- MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin