Wiz Khalifa - Honored Pittsburgher?

Pittsburgh City Council never ceases to amaze and confound. It chose to use valuable time to honor a “noted” Pittsburgher with a day of his own. Was it distinguished city native and historian extraordinaire David McCullough? No. Dance and acting legend Gene Kelly? No. Ninety-year-old veteran comedian Marty Allen? No.

It was a rapper, the oft-arrested Wiz Khalifa, who uses his music to assert the glories of (illegal) marijuana. 

I believe that our war on drugs is an abysmal failure and that an individual should not go to jail for smoking a marijuana joint or two, but marijuana use continues to be a violation of federal law notwithstanding its “legalization” by a number of states. We travel a dangerous road when we honor individuals that believe themselves to be above the law.

What type of example is set for impressionable youth through celebrating and lauding the slovenly and criminal justice system-defying “artist,” Mr. Khalifa?

Perhaps it was appropriate on multiple counts that the honoree wore a cap with the word "Dope" emblazoned on it when he appeared in City Council Chambers to accept his award.

Today is officially Wiz Khalifa Day in Pittsburgh. What do you think about it? Tell us in the comments.

Editor's Note: Oren Spiegler is a blogger for Patch. You, too, can blog on Patch. Click here to get started.