Pubdate: Fri, 21 Apr 2000 Source: St. Thomas Times-Journal (CN ON) Copyright: 2000 St. Thomas Times-Journal Contact: 16 Hincks Street, St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada N5R 5Z2 Fax: (519) 631-5653 Website: http://www.bowesnet.com/Timesjournal/ DAY AND MARIJUANA Not Likely A Barrier Stockwell Day admits he smoked the odd joint. Welcome to the club. It's becoming the norm rather than the exception for those either in public life or aspiring to be to admit they once tried drugs. It should come as no surprise. Day is of the vintage where high school and other students were lured by the temptation to try drugs like marijuana. Though it sounds lame to say so, in the crazy social atmosphere of the '70s, trying drugs like marijuana was considered a vogue thing to do. So, 30 years later, how does this affect his chances to be elected leader of the Alliance Party? Realistically, it probably doesn't make much difference. A percentage of the party members from whom Day will be looking for support are probably his age. Which means they faced the same temptations years ago. Many of them may not be comfortable admitting it, but smoking marijuana was quite common. People might not hold it against Day that he tried marijuana, but he has to measure his steps carefully now when speaking publicly about the issue. Is it wise for him to admit he smoked it and then turn around and counsel today's students to steer clear? The chances of people accepting that as a credible position are shaky. Day is best advised to move on from the clear, concise revelation he smoked the odd joint. Let lawmakers and law enforcement agencies deliver the other messages to students. If the public is looking for a standard to compare Day with, remember U.S. President Bill Clinton openly admitted he once smoked marijuana. Admitting it no longer carries the stigma it did years ago. - --- MAP posted-by: Jo-D