Pubdate: Fri, 17 Dec 1999 Source: Toronto Star (CN ON) Page: A35 Section: Letters Copyright: 1999, The Toronto Star Contact: http://www.thestar.com/ Author: Catherine Wilson, Wilberforce, Ont. ECSTASY ARTICLE QUESTIONABLE Re the Nov. 20 article, Agonizing over Ecstasy. Exactly what was The Star's intent with this article? It certainly wasn't to discourage anyone from taking or even manufacturing an illegal substance. The article makes this illegal drug sound very inviting: It's less noxious than alcohol and makes one feel wonderful. Oh, if you take massive doses, then maybe it will do some damage to serotonin nerve endings in the brain and chronic and long-term use could possibly cause cognitive damage. But, hey, if you're shy - this is the answer you've been looking for! For those who might be intimidated by the price tag, not to worry, the ever informative Star lets you know where you can find out exactly how to manufacture this easily made drug. And don't be put off by the thought that it might be difficult to obtain the necessary ingredients: You can buy them at your local Canadian Tire. This is not trying to provide news in a timely fashion. This is trying to allay fears that might exist among the general public regarding use of an illegal drug often related to rave parties. The problem is it is more likely to alleviate any remaining doubts a young person might have about taking it. - --- MAP posted-by: allan wilkinson