Pubdate: Sat, 23 Aug 2014 Source: Calgary Herald (CN AB) Copyright: 2014 Postmedia Network Contact: http://www.calgaryherald.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/66 Author: Pamela Emmerson Page: A10 GOING TO POT Re: "Haze of confusion," Editorial, Aug. 20. It has taken so long to educate the public about the dangers of cigarettes, and we have come such a long way in reducing smoking, so why now encourage the smoking of the mind-altering drug marijuana? The facts are that marijuana affects the brain in the short and long term. It contains THC, which is a psychoactive ingredient. Some of the effects are a decrease in IQ , memory loss, poor judgment and loss of coordination. Why would we think of making it easily accessible to youth? To legalize this drug also conveys the message that it is pretty harmless. Our leaders need to seriously consider what is best for our youth. They are the future generation. I question the motives of any leader who would consider legalizing this dangerous drug. Pamela Emmerson, Calgary - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom