THE BENEFITS OF HEMP

The Editor, Sir:

Would someone please look at the prospect of growing hemp? Yes, it is
a member of the cannabis family, but will actually 'cancel' the
hallucinogenic qualities of marijuana if grown close to its cousin
plant.

Hemp requires no pesticides and grows faster than cotton. My country
(United States) and its politicians have everyone thinking that hemp
is marijuana. Actually, the U.S. grew hemp before World War II.

Hemp can be used as fuel, rope, paper and clothing. I would love to
see Jamaica formulate its own degumming process too ... the fabric
actually gets stronger after wetting.

Please be careful. I read the article on the cure for cancers, too. I
am so afraid that the white businessman and his greed will continue
to 'screw' black islands and continents. They continue to try to
destroy Mother Africa, because of its natural resources. I am an
African-American female, who simply loves the beauty and simplicity
of your island. Sometimes modern technologies cause us to forget to
think for ourselves.

I don't know that much about Rastafarianism, but I do believe that
they believe in the simple things. I believe that the good Lord put
everything that we need right outside our windows.

Hoping to live in Jamaica one day!

I am, etc.,

Erika Middleton Yuille,

Columbia, Maryland