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Comment By John Darling For the Tidings DailyTidings.com By John Darling For the Tidings Posted Jul. 20, 2015 at 8:07 PM By John Darling For the Tidings Posted Jul. 20, 2015 at 8:07 PM » Social News Oregon legalized recreational pot July 1 and, according to Ashlanders, society did not implode and the gateway to hard drugs was not kicked open — although more than a few bowls have been noted burning in late night alleys and streets of our town, something that (smoking in public) is not allowed under the new law. However, the Legislature has set up another marijuana mile-stone date: On Oct. 1, it will become legal to sell “dope,” as it was called in the '60s (half a century ago) in medical marijuana dispensaries. Still, local governments will be entitled to approve or disapprove of this. Ashland already has three local medical pot stores, so do we need another one for just plain old everyday dope? That is the question left to our city council. Ashland is a famously liberal town, many of whose denizens were smoking those very reefers in the ill-fabled '60s and can recall many an evening sitting in a circle on the floor and passing a “number” (where did they get these names?) around, being careful not to “bogart” that “joint,” my friend. So, this demographic is likely to support free enterprise, aka selling dope like we sell beer or wine. Everyone has their buttons to push, whether for liberty or propriety, but, say Ashlanders, look for the town fathers (and mothers) to Just Say Yes and hope everything is chill. We asked Ashlanders (half of whom wouldn’t give their last names) what they thought, want and expected. “Heather” – (declined photo) It’s like anything else. Let it be sold, but in proportion to our population. Three medical stores is adequate. I have nothing against it, but we don’t need it sold on every corner. I really haven’t noticed any changes in society, just people smoking in alleys for weeks. Ananda Goldsmith – Everyone seems to be smoking downtown, in front of everywhere. I tell them, hey, you can still get a ticket for that. More stores? No, they’re just going to tax the s--- out of it. I wouldn’t buy it. You can always get it somewhere. Just some 70-year-old dude with no medical card would be the only one walking around looking to buy it on the street. Cynthia Bower — Ashland should have stores, by all means. We passed it. No one is forcing anyone to go in and buy it. I don’t smoke it, but I’ve been very pro-legalization for ages. It’s a natural progression to stores. If it’s legalized and you can’t go get it, that’s not right. Cyndi Mitchell — The city council should allow stores here. It’s not any worse than liquor stores. You, of course, should have to be 21 and show ID. There’s been no change in society since legalization. People who use it still use it. They should label the strength of it, though. “Max” — (declined photo) Absolutely marijuana helps lots of people and is also fun. I don’t care if they open (recreational) stores or not. I’ve had my card for five years. “Gina” — (declined photo) I’d say yes, open (recreational) shops here, but regulate where and how many. Recreational pot could be sold in convenience stores or drive-throughs, like coffee. But not every few blocks. It should be a safe location. “Sarah” — (declined photo) Ashland is pretty liberal. It would be like saying "no" to liquor stores (if they prevent recreational pot stores). It may have negative morality stuff around it, but if it’s legal, it’s legal. Kay Stein — It’s not the city’s business. It’s state law. Cities shouldn’t decide this. Let the market decide. I’ve heard enough of all this. Let’s live and let live. John Darling is an Ashland freelance writer. Reach him at [email protected]. By John Darling For the Tidings DailyTidings.com By John Darling For the Tidings Posted Jul. 20, 2015 at 8:07 PM » Comment or view comments Reader Reaction » STAY INFORMED Email NewsLetter Sign Up Today Sign up for our newsletter and have the top headlines from your community delivered right to your inbox. Southern Oregon Directory Featured Businesses Loading... 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