Pubdate: Thu, 12 Jan 2012
Source: Kennebec Journal (Augusta, ME)
Copyright: 2012 Charlotte Warren
Contact: 
http://www.kjonline.com/readerservices/Send_a_Letter_to_the_Editor-KJ.html
Website: http://www.kjonline.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1405
Author: Charlotte Warren

MAYOR CONFIDENT ABOUT MARIJUANA DISPENSARY

It's been nearly two years since voters approved the sale and use of
medical marijuana for qualifying patients in Maine.

Since that time, licenses to operate dispensaries have been awarded to
eight health districts across the state, including Hallowell.

As the city's mayor, I have been working with state and local law
enforcement, along with Becky DeKeuster, executive director of the
Wellness Connection of Maine, the non-profit that will operate the
Hallowell dispensary, to ensure that all regulations have been met and
that our community will be protected.

I understand that some people question the merit of medical marijuana
and others question the wisdom of locating a dispensary within our
city limits.

I want to assure residents that after many meetings, I am confident
that this will be a professionally operated medical facility. I
believe this dispensary and its professionally trained staff will
serve its patients, who suffer from chronic or terminal illnesses,
with great care and respect.

DeKeuster has assured me that Wellness Connection of Maine will
operate in compliance with the letter and the spirit of Maine's
medical marijuana laws and that strict security measures are in place.

We all know Hallowell friends and neighbors who are dealing with
cancer, fibromyalgia and other health conditions. These citizens -- as
well as people from our surrounding communities -- will seek
assistance at this facility. I hope that this dispensary is a place
where they find relief for their pain and suffering.

Charlotte Warren,

mayor

Hallowell
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