We’ve got bigger problems than ‘Mr. Smiley’

Opinion

September 1, 2010

Anonymous THE GOSHEN NEWS The Goshen News Wed Sep 01, 2010, 08:38 AM EDT

Last week the Shipshewana Town Council took action it believes is in the best interest of its residents. A new ordinance that was expedited with the blessing of each council member outlaws the use and sale of synthetic marijuana within town limits.

Synthetic marijuana has made headlines lately under the brand name “Mr. Smiley” that is sold at some convenient stores. The product is sold as incense, but contains a THC-like chemical. THC is the active chemical in marijuana, which is illegal to varying degrees nationwide.

While the label on “Mr. Smiley” claims that it’s not for human consumption, it doesn’t take the sharpest eye in the room to read between the lines. This “incense” is not illegal by state law, so it’s up to cities, towns and counties deal with its presence. An ordinance is not a bad way to go. As long as stores are in tune with their communities and choose not to sell it — and it doesn’t seem many in this area are — “Mr. Smiley” shouldn’t be much of an issue.

Yes, it’s important for the community to publicly condemn this product, but it’s more important to maintain perspective on the matter. Honestly, it’s likely easier to find and buy marijuana and much harder drugs than it is “Mr. Smiley.” In a county that is among the state leaders in methamphetamine-related arrests, our police departments have far more important missions to tackle than reining in the alleged underground market for “Mr. Smiley.”

Other communities have taken a stand against the product, either through public action or personal request. Goshen police, for instance, simply asked local merchants not to sell “Mr. Smiley,” Based on a recent random sampling of convenient stores by staffers of The Goshen News, the merchants seem to be taking that request seriously. Good for them. Even when there are much more pressing concerns at foot, “Mr. Smiley” certainly should be frowned upon here.

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We’ve got bigger problems than ‘Mr. Smiley’

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