Pubdate: Sun, 21 Jul 2002
Source: Florida Today (FL)
Copyright: 2002 Florida Today
Contact: http://www.floridatoday.com/forms/services/letters.htm
Website: http://www.flatoday.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/532
Author: Nick Paparone
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/pot.htm (Cannabis)

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
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MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager