THIS IS REEFER MADNESS

Waterloo Region, despite its size and close proximity to Toronto, has
a unique identity and a strong reputation throughout Canada.

It is known for being liberal and progressive because of its two
universities, both of which are world respected. It is known for
being fun-loving because of the Oktoberfest celebrations.

And it is known for being charitable because of the longtime
Mennonite influence.

Sadly, this reputation is being marred by Kitchener council's
resolution to crack down on pot-growers. A five-year prison sentence
for these offenders seems excessively harsh.

It deviates from the nation's growing acceptance of marijuana, which
can now be used legally for medical reasons, and sounds very much
like a penalty American lawmakers would propose.

These prison sentences are neither liberal nor progressive, nor are
they forgiving and charitable.

Bill Bendix

Toronto