MARIJUANA A GATEWAY DRUG

Sir:

Many of our politicians are favoring the legalization of marijuana*.
Unfortunately, the planning to do so ignores the realities of the dangers
and risks of smoking pot.

Let's face the facts related to smoking pot. Marijuana (also called weed,
pot, reefer or boom) contains a chemical called cannabinol which has
negative effects on the brain. Short-term effects include memory
impairment, confusion, impaired motor ability, concentration and
problem-solving, and the development of anxiety and panic.

Long-term effects of pot use include confused thinking, memory impairment,
and lack of motivation. Also increased suffering from bronchitis,
respiratory problems and chest colds. And higher risks of cancer. Also
affecting the hippocampus in the brain - the area responsible for learning,
memory and critical thinking. Pot has three to five times more tar than
cigarettes, greatly raising the medical risks.

Obviously, pot is a gateway drug, putting users at greater risk of trying
other drugs. A recent study found that a teen who smokes pot is 104 times
more likely to try cocaine than a teen who says 'no' to pot.

Buying pot contributes to drug-related violence involving thefts and drug
dealers. Studies repeatedly confirm that it is just as dangerous to drive
under the influence of marijuana as to drive drunk.

How many talented kids drop out of school and give up career preparations
because of their habit? How many can't sleep properly unless they get high?
How many suffer miserable symptoms of addiction in their struggles to quit
pot use?

Conclusion: Let's not legalize marijuana.

If you see the dangers of this situation the way I do, I encourage you to
mail a copy of this letter to our local Member of Parliament, with an
attached note expressing your own opinion.

* Jack Layton: "Marijuana is a wonderful substance that should be legalized."

Clarence Tifenbach, Fanny Bay