Pubdate: Mon, 13 Jun 2005
Source: San Diego Union Tribune (CA)
Copyright: 2005 Union-Tribune Publishing Co.
Contact:  http://www.uniontrib.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/386
Note: Does not print LTEs from outside it's circulation area.
Author: Katrina Preece
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mmj.htm (Cannabis - Medicinal)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?115 (Cannabis - California)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/opinion.htm (Opinion)

TAKING ISSUE WITH CRITICS, JUSTICES ON POT

I was extremely dismayed by the colorful photos of marijuana used 
throughout this article. As a junior high English teacher, I have used 
newspapers in the classroom to teach students how to read and navigate the 
news. We have talked about the use of photos and their eye-catching and 
persuasive influence. It looks as though your newspaper is telling youth 
that marijuana is a run-of-the-mill drug that anyone should use. It is not. 
It is addicting, mind-altering and unhealthy.

I was also disheartened by the casualness and outspokenness of the owners 
of local dispensaries about their involvement with an illegal drug. I do 
not like the notion that dispensary owners plan to continue operating and 
expanding their dispensaries in my community. Marijuana is a cash crop and 
these dispensaries will be a target for crime. My community does not need a 
"business" that attracts a criminal element.

KATRINA PREECE Oceanside
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom