Pubdate: Tue, 28 Aug 2012 Source: Columbian, The (WA) Copyright: 2012 The Columbian Publishing Co. Contact: http://www.columbian.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/92 Author: Herb Maxey 'NO' TO LEGALIZING MARIJUANA Ask a person why they smoke marijuana. Most are honest and say it is because of the "high" or euphoric feelings that they get - the buzz. The drug alters their perception of reality and makes them feel better about themselves. Many medical users are recreational users. I have seen marijuana smokers go from productive citizens and students to unmotivated dropouts and unemployable drains on society. Now they want us to legalize this drug. Those in favor of legal marijuana compare this drug to alcohol. Alcohol stays in your system a few hours depending on the quantity that you consume. THC (the part of marijuana that gives you the high) in the drug, once inhaled, can stay in your system for up to two weeks, depending on the circumstances. Do you want the driver behind you or the co-worker next to you on the job to be high? Do you want a loved one in a car with a driver that is high? Our society is becoming tolerant and indifferent to these hazards. Smokers want the access, politicians and police agencies want to reduce the drain on their resources. We need a sound "no" vote on legalization efforts. Herb Maxey Brush Prairie - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom