MARIJUANA NOT HARMLESS PRODUCT

In response to Loretta Nall's letter, I wanted to relate a few facts she is
apparently not aware of. With over 25 years in law enforcement, I've
learned that marijuana contains known toxins and cancer causing chemicals
which can cause the same health problems as tobacco smoking, which include
bronchitis, emphysema and bronchial asthma.

A change in brain chemistry affects thinking, learning abilities and
interferes with driving and other skills involving mental and physical
coordination. Research shows that among habitual marijuana smokers, a
shocking 60 percent progress to other drugs.

It's not clear where Nall gets her information concerning non-violent drug
offenders. Though not all offenders are violent, many do resort to a life
of crime to support their own addictions. Crime affects all of us.

The argued myths of the past regarding marijuana being harmless are over.
The economic profits from the marijuana trade are just under those of
General Motors and Exxon. Despite the widespread myth that it's harmless
and the multi-billion-dollars it spawns, an increasing number of Americans
recognize the harmful effects of marijuana. The majority of researchers now
concede that marijuana can be addictive and affect the users mentally,
emotionally and physically.

K.C. Vendetta

Prattville