Pubdate: Tue, 30 Aug 2011 Source: Abbotsford Times (CN BC) Copyright: 2011 The Abbotsford Times Contact: http://www.abbotsfordtimes.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1009 Author: Eric Myrholm http://www.abbotsfordtimes.com/story_print.html?id=5326241&sponsor LEGALIZING DRUGS IS NOT THE ANSWER EDITOR, THE TIMES: In his letter, 'Legalize drugs and end gang violence,' in the Aug. 23 edition of your paper, Alan Randell writes in part: " . . . the violence will never stop until drug prohibition is ended and all recreational drugs are legalized." I would ask Randell why the use of dangerous mind altering recreational drugs is so important? If all so-called recreational drugs were to be legalized, would youth not become more of a target for the criminal element? Legalizing dangerous mind-altering, possibly addictive drugs would send a message to our youth that drugs are OK. Do we value our youth? If so, would it not be prudent for adults to set an example? Just say 'No' to drugs. Anyone who purchases illegal drugs is supporting the criminal element. Eric Myrholm Abbotsford - --- MAP posted-by: Richard R Smith Jr.