Pubdate: Tue, 23 Mar 1999 Date: 03/23/1999 Source: Los Angeles Times (CA) Author: Jason Roberts Note: Subjectline by MAP editor I am thrilled that there is finally a valid, scientific study showing that marijuana is indeed a beneficial substance and that people who can gain the most from its benefits - those suffering from painful diseases - should rightfully be allowed to use it. It's a positive step in the direction of eventual legalization when hopefully the government will stop its propaganda and persecution campaign against innocent users of a substance which is less harmful than drinking alcohol and, to the chagrin of McCaffrey and the old guard, almost as widespread among the American public. I find it highly ironic that these antimarijuana warriors have likely never enjoyed a smoke of fine cannabis, nor are they dying of a condition which could be eased by its use. My guess is that if they were, their tunes would be quite different. Jason Roberts Lakewood