MYTH: “This is just a trial ban”
FACT: The “trial” ban of alcohol on city beaches approved by the City Council is deceptive, as there is no trial involved. A trial implies that the effects of the ban are to be tested, yet there is no metric for determining success or failure. Crime has fallen for the past two years. If it falls again this year, it will be presented as “proof” that the alcohol ban works. How could it fail? If there is a “riot” at Labor Day next year, will that be evidence to repeal the ban? The people who want a beach alcohol ban want a total alcohol ban. They are using incremental prohibition as a guise to gradually erode the rights of all San Diegans.
Ban supporters are discouraging folks from signing the petition, saying “give the trial a chance”. But since there is no trial, what is there to give a chance to? To them I say, give democracy a chance. What is more democratic than a vote of the people? Of course the people have spoken on this issue twice before, but if Councilman Faulconer and the other San Diego City Council members that think restricting your freedom will magically solve all the issues our beach communities face. The people of San Diego shall vote again. And once and for all they will send a clear message that San Diego values freedom.
If you agree with this, sign the petition — let the democratic process really be your voice. The clock it ticking. Make your voice heard.
Check out www.bantheban3.org for more info.
— JACOB PYLE