MARIJUANA IS RIGHTLY ILLEGAL

Parents or guardians should be appalled by two recent letter-writers who
strongly proclaimed that marijuana should be legalized.

Responsible parents should advise children, particularly vulnerable
teen-agers, that aside from serious problems associated with alcohol and
tobacco, the legalization of marijuana would make matters worse.

The presumption that marijuana is a harmless substance is unfounded. It is
a mood-altering drug that could lead to severe physical and emotional problems.

Some physical effects of smoking the drug are short-term euphoria, mental
confusion, memory loss, decreased reaction time and impaired visual and
cognitive judgment.

It also increases the heart rate dangerously and impairs the immune system.
The smoke is more dangerous to the lungs than cigarette smoke.

In Vietnam, I faced two disoriented soldiers who were under the influence
of marijuana. They wandered aimlessly and were oblivious to enemy shelling.
After the Tet Offensive, I participated in a general court-martial that
resulted in the conviction of a perimeter defense guard -- he killed an
approaching fellow soldier at night because he thought the victim was a bear.

Later, as a public school teacher, I observed several teen-age students who
displayed symptoms of marijuana use -- lack of energy or ambition and
erratic performance in class.

Parents should keep a sharp eye on their children. If a problem is
detected, it's never too late to react. Reputable organizations can provide
information and referrals. Check the yellow pages under "Drug" for numbers
that apply.

Nick Paparone, Melbourne