Re Game Changer? (letters, Aug. 7): It's wrong to dismiss the subject of marijuana legalization as merely a distracting soft issue. The far-reaching effects of the criminalization of Canadian citizens for the possession and use of a substance that is arguably less harmful than tobacco or alcohol is no small matter. Of equal importance to our economy are the millions of dollars spent to enforce marijuana prohibition policies that are out of line with changing Canadian attitudes. Justin Trudeau is showing leadership by publicly questioning the continued pursuit of drug policies that have proven to be both costly and ineffective. Suzzanne Fisher, Calgary [end]
Says One HR Person: 'I Wouldn't Hold A Long-ago Transgression Against A Candidate, But I Would A Recent One.' Dear Annie: I'll graduate in January from a good college and am just beginning to talk with corporate recruiters. My grades were excellent all through school, I've been active in sports and other extracurricular activities, and I believe I've got a lot to offer an employer. There's just one problem: In my senior year of high school I was arrested along with several other students and convicted of marijuana possession. I had just turned 18, so instead of juvenile probation I got slapped with a lifelong criminal record. I have not touched any drugs since then and have never been in any other trouble (with the law or otherwise). Will this one mistake destroy my chances of getting a good job? And how should I handle it in job interviews--bring it up myself or wait to be asked? Worried in Washington [continues 841 words]
COLUMBUS - Tiffany Landreth traveled from Dallas to join the trip. Dan Asbury of Oregon just rolled down his driveway for the excursion. Ms. Landreth and Mr. Asbury are wheelchair users who suffer from debilitating illness that they contend are eased by smoking marijuana. Yesterday they finished a 140mile road trip from Toledo to Columbus to dramatize their cause. Tired bodies and callused palms not withstanding, Mr. Asbury said the five day trip, which started Monday, is only the first of what he hopes will be several wheelchair excursions from points in the Buckeye State to the Statehouse. [continues 196 words]
