PRO-POT CROWD'S AGGRESSION SHOWS POTENCY IS ON RISE

Editor, The News:

On Feb. 12, Fraser Valley MP Chuck Strahl hosted a town hall meeting in
Chilliwack, with the topic being: Marijuana: Legalize, Decriminalize or
Penalize?

There was a full house of approximately 250 people.

The group was addressed by Dr. Keith Martin, a Canadian Alliance MP, who
discussed the proposed Bill C-344, which would amend the Controlled Drugs
and Substances Act with respect to marijuana.

Dr. Ray Baker of Vancouver presented the "facts" about the dangers of
marijuana use. There was also good attendance from the pro-marijuana group.
This group came with some surprises. I have always viewed this group as
having a "Hey man! Cool dude!" approach.

On several occasions when the information was being presented, loud jeers,
catcalls and outright shouting by the pro-marijuana group took place. So
much for the laid-back, peace and love attitude we hear so much about.

It shows that the potency of marijuana is increasing.

MP Strahl again proved his parliamentary skills and wisdom by bringing the
meeting back on track. After the meeting, I would ask: Why do we need a
drug like marijuana? To mask pain? To mellow the present? To make a
situation tolerable? How many problems has the use of marijuana solved?

The exception would be for medical purposes only, if approved by a medical
practitioner.

Out of concern for our children, grandchildren and all the youth of Canada,
please don't push for the legalization of this mind-altering, addictive,
gateway drug.

Eric Myrholm, Abbotsford