Nick Reding talks about the use of drugs and its adverse effects
Nick Reding talks about the use of drugs specifically methamphetamine and its adverse effects such as rural fights and fall in the economic state of the small town. The town is full of drug dealers and addicts. The drug trade is ranked higher than other businesses because of deregulation. However, Oelwein recovered from its drug crisis through hard work.
The history of meth should start from the town itself and its residents
According to Nick (59), the history of meth should start from the town itself and its residents. Instead of always placing blame on the addict, his environment should also be investigated. At the Doo Drop Inn, Nick meets Chad and Ella who act crazy because of hallucinations. The Inn is where most meth is sold, and the owner admits that even the police are involved in the business.
The use of meth becomes a national problem in Chapter 6
In Chapter 6, use of meth becomes a national problem. Fight against meth starts when Washington DC finds out about the meth small towns. Efforts by the government to reduce meth supply were unsuccessful. Even with the Combat Meth Act, a new prescription for meth was created called crystal meth. Laboratories grew by 300%.
The economy of Oelwein worsened and people lost jobs
The economy of Oelwein worsened and people lost jobs. Earlier on, it was believed that gangsters from Chicago would go for retreats at Oelwein which helped people stay in line and they were no trouble. Later in the days, in March 2006, a lot worsened when Tyson closed leaving people jobless who turned to making drugs. Larry Murphy a Democrat, makes plans to restore the town in two phases (Reding 81). Police also take part by using drug traffickers to get other traffickers.
Meth business was paying more than most firms until the end of 2006
Meth business was paying more than most firms until the end of 2006. Lori leaves jail and works at Cargill but isn’t satisfied with pay and gets back to meth business. Unluckily, she is caught again. However in 2006, businesses boom again and the town becomes safe. The growth of meth labs also declines. America was developing slower than other nations making people go for quicker options such as meth.
Work cited
Reding, Nick. Methland: The death and life of an American small town. Bloomsbury Publishing USA, 2010.
