Pubdate: Thu, 22 Nov 2001 Source: StarPhoenix, The (CN SN) Copyright: 2001 The StarPhoenix Contact: http://www.canada.com/saskatoon/starphoenix/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/400 Author: Darcy Ecker ANTI-PROHIBITIONIST SINGS TIRED REFRAIN Here we go again. For some reason, our old buddy Ken Sailor thinks our memories are as short as his. In 'Marijuana withdrawal' novel concept (SP Nov. 13), he once again points out how badly prohibition has failed. Yes, prohibition failed miserably in the past with alcohol. Would Sailor say that now, since alcohol consumption has been "legalized," we have had resounding success with all the alcohol-related problems? Let's not forget about gambling. With all of the casinos, and VLTs in every little lounge, I wonder just how many lives will be destroyed before the right thing is done. We also have this little problem with drugs. If users had been properly educated on the dangers of all illegal drugs, including marijuana, their numbers would be significantly smaller. The argument that marijuana is virtually harmless or that it is used only to reduce pain is absolutely ridiculous. I happen to know several marijuana users and not one of them has ever used the drug to help alleviate pain. Along with 99 per cent of all marijuana users, they smoke up just to get high. Definitely, some people need it medically. They are the only ones who should be allowed to use it. People like Sailor keep trying to shove this story down our throats; quite frankly, we are getting tired of it. Sailor should try to live in any of the countries that have legalized marijuana and try to maintain the same standard of living he has here. I wonder what tune he would be singing then? Darcy Ecker Saskatoon - --- MAP posted-by: Beth