[Winona Online Democracy] John Dollimore raises a very important issue: the criminalization of drugs - one which we will not solve with a few dozen posts on WOD - but nevertheless one that deserves attention. It is important because it ripples through so many parts of our society and because it is "taboo" in many circles to even discuss it rationally. Trying to speak sanely and logically about decriminalizing drugs is often seen as akin to murdering your grandmother or prostituting your children. Yet there are some compelling arguments for considering some of the proposals John cites. It is mostly in the hands of the State and the Federal governments, who have the laws governing such things - not local cities like Winona. If we are to pursue the topic I suggest we take it to the National Forum, unless there are specific things folks in Winona can do to affect changes.
To cite but one example, it is fairly well understood that both alcohol and tobacco contribute far more to health problems and mortality than marijuana, yet the first two are legal and marijuana is not. When I was in high school (Winona Senior High, class of 1971) we conducted an informal poll of our classmates and found at least 1 in 3 had smoked marijuana. During the same time frame there was at least one spectacular car crash, with alcohol a factor, causing the deaths of three high school students. It would be easy to follow my classmates (now all approaching 50) and find the health effects of smoking. I would challenge anyone to find a serious health or social problem connected to marijuana use compared to the alcohol and tobacco. - Phil Carlson, Mpls P.S. I was one of the students who smoked marijuana, and haven't for over 30 years for the same reasons I drink moderately and don't smoke - it isn't good for me. But these were decisions reached by experience and reason, rather than fear, superstition, and threats. _______________________________________________ This message was posted to Winona Online Democracy All messages must be signed by the senders actual name. No commercial solicitations are allowed on this list. To manage your subscription or view the message archives, please visit http://mapnp.mnforum.org/mailman/listinfo/winona Any problems or suggestions can be directed to mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] If you want help on how to contact elected officials, go to the Contact page at http://www.winonaonlinedemocracy.org
