I'm writing regarding a recent issue that has come up in
Burlington.  Some people would like to see that no individual under the
age of 21 can be allowed in the bars downtown.  I'd like to say, first
of all, that this seems like a noble cause; however, it will do more
harm than good for the city and the UVM community of which I am a part
of.
        Many clubs and sports teams from UVM and surrounding colleges
use the downtown area to have events that are designed to raise money.
We adult students under the age of 21 do not attend these events to
drink, we go to support the club having the event and to have a great
time.  Having a great time does not require alcohol.  However, if
supporters of the club desire to have it, should they be denied?  I do
not believe so.  Many of the establishments downtown that serve alcohol
have a pleasant atmosphere for such said events as well.  The school gym
is just not the place to hold a party to raise money.
        Furthermore, I really do not see a problem with having adult
students under the age of 21 being able to attend the bars for such said
events or to see bands as long as the legal drinking age is enforced.
Keeping legal adults that do not yet have the right to drink away from
the bars is like keeping drivers off the road for fear of them running a
red light.  If you are over 18, you are expected to follow the law.  If
you do not, then you pay the full penalty.
        I'd like to close my comments by stating that we the students of
the University of Vermont are deeply disturbed by this issue: we are not
children.
Trust us students and have some faith in your fellow citizens.  We are
all one community.  We students accept and embrace this fact.  Please do
not label a part of your community as untrustworthy: it hurts.
                        Sincerely,
                             Bill Tickner
                             UVM SGA Senator
                     Burlington community member

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What do you guys think? I'm going to send it unless there is something
horribly wrong with it. Thanks, and I'd encourage all of you to stand up
on this issue.

Tickner