TIME TO DEMYTHIFY POT

Re: "Glaring spotlight" (Letters, by Jim Bettencourt, CN&R, Nov. 20):

The new year brings the light of unity, as nations gather to address
the issues of global warming, oil crises, economic collapse, health
and world hunger with a fevered urgency. While considering all the
options, the cannabis hemp plant is one solution in the search for
alternatives. Hemp has ecological, industrial and medicinal values.

Hemp fiber became a major crop in Europe by 400 BC. Hemp-fiber
production was most important to the developing colonies for homespun
cloth and ship riggings. Hemp production was so important that in
1762 Virginia imposed penalties for those who refused to grow the plant.

The plant's resilience and vigor make hemp a wonderful candidate for
methanol fuel, unlike a tender crop like corn.

Not until the 20th century, when racially provoked, misguided
politics developed a strategy to introduce myths about hemp (like
lust, violence, crime and the degradation of religion), did marijuana
hysteria take hold, and stayed, as with Mr. Bettencourt's letter.

Recent studies are inundated with new results for healing--using the
seed oil, leaf compound and roots. Just last month from Italy came
evidence that cannabinoids kill staph infections! Don't sell cannabis
hemp short, Mr. Bettencourt; it could be what saves your life.

For sound sustainability, it is imperative that hemp be reinstated
[as a legitimate crop]. Take the prejudice off its image! Hemp is our
greatest renewable resource. Support the restoration movement and buy
a hemp product today.

Darcy Stoddard, Tierra Sol Farm

Magalia