Pubdate: Thu, 18 May 2006
Source: Chico Enterprise-Record (CA)
Copyright: 2006 The Media News Group
Contact: http://www.chicoer.com/feedback
Website: http://www.chicoer.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/861
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Author: Alex Mackinum
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?115 (Cannabis - California)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)

MARIJUANA NOT SO GOOD?

I am shocked to read the complaint about marijuana being a detriment 
to your career. In my experience, anything done without moderation 
can be a detriment. I have a hard time justifying the animosity 
towards marijuana specifically though, as prescription drugs and 
alcohol seem to be the biggest problem nationally. Ironically enough, 
it is that "crowd" that seems to ridicule marijuana the most.

I might be biased (my girlfriend is a cancer survivor), but I believe 
alcohol and the recent overprescription of painkillers are 
responsible for a lot more ills (social and personal) than marijuana 
ever could be. I believe it is an issue of personal responsibility.

Prohibition has been proven to be flawed. Maybe if marijuana was 
legalized we could set age limits and eliminate the need for users to 
fraternize with dealers. This might also serve to alleviate the 
overpopulation of our jail system. Isn't it time to deal with the 
issue? After all, it is here to stay.

- - Alex Mackinum

Chico
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MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman