Pubdate: Mon, 19 Jan 2015 Source: Columbus Dispatch (OH) Copyright: 2015 The Columbus Dispatch Contact: http://www.dispatch.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/93 Author: Rob Myatt ILLEGAL DRUG DOESN'T DESERVE PUBLICITY The New York Times article in the Jan. 4 Dispatch, "High-end dining takes on a new meaning with edible marijuana," has me shocked and confused. Marijuana is an illegal substance in our state. Why would the use of an illegal substance in food be included under the label of "Trends" in a central Ohio newspaper? The article itself was more puzzling to me, as it clearly stated that it doesn't taste good and that the resultant high cannot be controlled. Why would central Ohio readers need to be aware of a trend involving a bad-tasting, illeffecting illegal substance? Marijuana is illegal in Ohio for many reasons. The results of its use have been described as including paranoia, anxiousness, lack of focus, altered perceptions, short-term memory interruption, fogginess and lack of ability to focus. Studies have shown it to be a gateway to other drugs. Although some have argued that it does not lead to addiction, I have firsthand experience that stopping its use, if it has been used on a daily basis, leads to serious nausea, inability to sleep and other side effects. The legalization of marijuana is not a trend that we should allow in our state. I am deeply disappointed in The Dispatch for running this article. It was generated in a state, Colorado, where this harmful drug has been legalized - regrettably, if you were to ask many in other states. I suspect that these kinds of articles are used to begin to soften the public opinion on the marijuana-legalization topic. I hope that in the future, The Dispatch can clearly communicate to its readers the dangers and harmfulness of this drug and why it should remain illegal. Let's work together and be leaders in maintaining our core Midwestern values. ROB MYATT Powell - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom