The subject of the breaking and entering at Maple Lanes is
questionable. Consider it from this point of view. The headline
of a recent article concerning the topic reads, “Maple
Lane Discount Store hit again.” Each of the many news
reports concerning break-ins at the store explained; the purpose
was to obtain bath salts the store sells.
The
reporter’s job is to give us the news, and their
reporting pointed out a need to be concerned. As I see it
however, the news coverage is beneficial to the business
affected and
serves as advertising.
I’m
sure many Huron County residents were unaware of the product
talked about before the investigation began.
It would not surprise me to discover users of marijuana
and cocaine
had no knowledge of the so called $10 packet bath salts.
Think
about it; once reports explained details of what the salts
provide and pointed out sales of them are legal,
the
salts’ popularity soared. Everyone in the Thumb
who heard reports about the subject became knowledgeable.
If
users of
any controlled substance were eager to try it, they knew
where to obtain it. Thus demand and sales of the product
grew.
The
store owner was quoted saying, “They are by far our
most popular item.” He explained income from
sales of the product were a major part of his business.
Damages
to his
property as a result of the break-ins were probably
paid by insurance but all the free advertising surely
provided
a boost
in sales.
If
the product is sold in small packages and is so valuable
an asset to the owner as reported, why didn’t he store
it in a big safe that could not be broke into or moved? Consider
how much time and manpower law enforcement has spent at taxpayer’s
expense investigating each break-in.
I’m sure the store, once a major seller of tobacco products,
suffered losses due to reductions in demand for those items.
However, I believe it to be unconscionable a local businessman
would resort to selling such a dangerous product. During my
research, I was asked, “Are the salts worse than tobacco?” A
question I could not answer given the high rate
of cancer in our county.
The
fact bath salts are imported should give our government agencies
the ability to control its
sale by declaring
it unsafe for consumption or placing a very high
tariff on
its import.
Knowing the merchandise is a major part of a
local establishment’s
income points out our county is being targeted by manufacturers
and sellers of these product. Research has disclosed there
are many imports that can cause irreparable harm such as toothpaste,
lead in children’s toys, tainted baby formula,
etc.
It falls on parents to keep a close eye on their youngsters
for use and the side effects noted and realize long-term after
effects are as yet unknown.
We need to recognize, our society is faced with second- and
perhaps third-generation recreational substance abusers.
It is our responsibility, as parents, grandparents, lawmakers
and citizens, to help resolve problems resulting from the use
of illegal or legal products. Waiting to let someone else solve
the issues will be at the expense of our youngsters.