ECSTASY ARTICLE QUESTIONABLE

Re the Nov. 20 article, Agonizing over Ecstasy. Exactly what was The
Star's intent with this article? It certainly wasn't to discourage
anyone from taking or even manufacturing an illegal substance.

The article makes this illegal drug sound very inviting: It's less
noxious than alcohol and makes one feel wonderful. Oh, if you take
massive doses, then maybe it will do some damage to serotonin nerve
endings in the brain and chronic and long-term use could possibly
cause cognitive damage.

But, hey, if you're shy - this is the answer you've been looking for!
For those who might be intimidated by the price tag, not to worry, the
ever informative Star lets you know where you can find out exactly how
to manufacture this easily made drug.

And don't be put off by the thought that it might be difficult to
obtain the necessary ingredients: You can buy them at your local
Canadian Tire.

This is not trying to provide news in a timely fashion. This is trying
to allay fears that might exist among the general public regarding use
of an illegal drug often related to rave parties. The problem is it is
more likely to alleviate any remaining doubts a young person might
have about taking it.