A new report says local teenagers don’t have enough things to do in Conejo Valley.

And because they lack recreational resources, they’re more likely to abuse alcohol and drugs—at least that’s the theory in the story on page 1.

There was a time when we would have nodded in agreement.

Now we’re not so sure.

If young people are truly susceptible to drugs and alcohol, they’re going to abuse them regardless of the options.

Getting high or tipsy isn’t necessarily an alternative to bowling, skating or dancing. In fact, people who use drugs or alcohol do so almost anytime, especially when socializing.

For example, when bowling alleys enjoyed their peak of popularity, beer and cocktails made them even more profitable. Betting with beers was common, and many people in bowling leagues were chain smokers and moderate to heavy drinkers.

To say that bowling prevents alcohol and drug abuse is illogical.

While we agree that young people need their own places to go, we disagree that having them would prevent alcohol and drug abuse. A teen nightclub with music might even attract pot smokers and drinkers.

Not so long ago, it might have been feasible for our city to spend tax dollars to construct recreational outlets for teenagers, but those days are gone at least for the foreseeable future.

Moreover, if money were to be made in building new bowling alleys, skate centers or teen nightclubs, an enterprising developer would have built those years ago.

Unless they can be profitable, it’s highly unlikely that they’ll be built.