Pubdate: Thu, 15 Oct 2015 Source: Penticton Herald (CN BC) Copyright: 2015 The Okanagan Valley Group of Newspapers Contact: http://www.pentictonherald.ca/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/664 Author: Connie Redknap Page: A8 DOCTORS MUST CONTROL MARIJUANA Dear Editor: One letter in Wednesday's Herald was the most important I have seen in months. Some people who normally do not vote are jumping on the bandwagon this time because of one intriguing idea being promoted by one party - the legalization of marijuana for recreational use. Legalization could increase government revenues significantly. It would accommodate people's "right" to legally indulge in a potentially mind-altering product and prevent them from being locked up for it. It creates business opportunities for people with limited education and marketable skills. However, in a world with things going on that require intelligence and clear thinking, mind-altering substances can create uncontrollable havoc. It is important not to legalize a substance for recreational use that can potentially trigger severe mental disorders. Recreational drug use can disrupt the lives of not only the user but families, schools, and communities. If you are concerned about the legalization of marijuana read or re-read the letter of Ronald Johnson published Oct. 14 in The Herald. The marijuana plant contains beneficial elements in the treatment of specific diseases. It is currently legal by prescription. If you have not yet voted, do some research and vote for one of the two parties that is not promoting the legalization of this product. Let's keep marijuana under the legal control of doctors! Connie Redknap Penticton - --- MAP posted-by: Matt