Marijuana can KILL you

[blueash]

As you consider your vote on the liberalization of the control of marijuana proposed for Florida, you may want to consider this pointed reminder of the risks of pot. It doesn't take an overly sharp intellect to grasp the dangers of drugs and this case once again cuts to the quick with its brief but rapier like analysis of the unfortunate death of Barry Wilson.

Ky man dies from pot (http://www.local8now.com/home/headlines/Man-carrying-pot-plant-trips-stabs-self-with-knife-269763821.html)

[red tail]

whats your point? so will marlboros

[kittygilchrist]

Blu, some people will perceive you concretely when you speak ironically.
Am enjoying your wit.

[redwitch]

Guess there is a way to fix stupid.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Blu, some people will perceive you concretely when you speak ironically.
Am enjoying your wit.

Or some people don't bother to open ad read the attached link.

[BarryRX]

It will probably be listed in the statistics as a drug related death. I'd laugh if it wasn't tragic.

[Russ_Boston]

It will probably be listed in the statistics as a drug related death.

Sad but probably true!

[graciegirl]

I was very surprised to see the poll on this forum that said that most readers overwhelming support the legalization of pot. I had not realized there was such a sea change in opinion but it was very enlightening.

So I am trying to absorb that three people who post on here, whose medical expertise and general common sense and excellent intelligence are very admired by me, those three guys are making light of an issue that still worries me.

[ajbrown]

/// could not figure out how to delete

[graciegirl]

Someone who I love sent me a PM that it was just meant to be funny. Sorry. I didn't get it.

[rp001]

Darwin is alive and well.

[graciegirl]

Darwin is alive and well.

Survival of the fittest. If you drive impaired, your chance of survival goes down. Just sayin.

Do you smoke pot rpoo1, or are you waiting until it is legal?

[blueash]

Darwin is alive and well.

I am thinking that Mr. Wilson may be a candidate for the Darwin award this year. When my daughter emailed me this story she had simply put "Darwin" in the subject line.

[coolkayaker1]

If you drive impaired, your chance of survival goes down.

True. As does my chance of survival go down when someone else drives impaired.

I'm all for freedom to do unto oneself as one sees fit. But, when a personal choice impacts me, my children, my friends and my community, it is no longer personal.

[PennBF]

I wonder if the ones that make fun of using pot will still feel it is funny when the 16-18 use and later have children with mental problem will still think it is funny. How about 20% who use pot as a entry level drug and end up addicted to Coke, Heroin, Meth, etc. and are in the last throws of drug induced medical problems, (e.g. having sizeures, AID's, etc.etc.) I guarantee you that if the ones who think pot is funny and fun will not think the same if they had to take care of these patients. Pot usage is not funny to the professionals who have to deal with the after effects and watch patients die, or ruin their families, etc. The last I heard cigarettes were not illegal and not an entry level drug. It is not unusual for some to try to compare pot to acholol, or smoking, etc. It is left to them as to why they fight for legal usage. Professionals who deal with drugs addictions have their own theories. None of it is fun or funny and is really tragic and a waste of many lives. Those who say it is not a problem should first visit a Crisis Center or Rehab and meet with the Professionals and gain the background on what they believe is fun?:doh:

[Villages PL]

As you consider your vote on the liberalization of the control of marijuana proposed for Florida, you may want to consider this pointed reminder of the risks of pot. It doesn't take an overly sharp intellect to grasp the dangers of drugs and this case once again cuts to the quick with its brief but rapier like analysis of the unfortunate death of Barry Wilson.

Ky man dies from pot (http://www.local8now.com/home/headlines/Man-carrying-pot-plant-trips-stabs-self-with-knife-269763821.html)

Didn't his mother ever tell him, "don't run with scissors"?

[rp001]

I wonder if the ones that make fun of using pot will still feel it is funny when the 16-18 use and later have children with mental problem will still think it is funny. How about 20% who use pot as a entry level drug and end up addicted to Coke, Heroin, Meth, etc. and are in the last throws of drug induced medical problems, (e.g. having sizeures, AID's, etc.etc.) I guarantee you that if the ones who think pot is funny and fun will not think the same if they had to take care of these patients. Pot usage is not funny to the professionals who have to deal with the after effects and watch patients die, or ruin their families, etc. The last I heard cigarettes were not illegal and not an entry level drug. It is not unusual for some to try to compare pot to acholol, or smoking, etc. It is left to them as to why they fight for legal usage. Professionals who deal with drugs addictions have their own theories. None of it is fun or funny and is really tragic and a waste of many lives. Those who say it is not a problem should first visit a Crisis Center or Rehab and meet with the Professionals and gain the background on what they believe is fun?:doh:

This train of thought left 20 yrs ago. This poster needs to join the new 21century.

[PennBF]

I understand the suggestion that we join the 21st Century. Let me assure that without getting into personal details there is extraordinary experience behind the note both formal and informal education. It is the uneducated and those that never took the time to professionally understand the impacts and watch the effects of usage. I have never met a person who worked in or watched the activities of a Crisis Center or Rehab. profess to be in favor of making any drug available. How are the current social problems with drugs working for you? Have you visited the streets of Denver or Vancover and witnessed the effects of these drugs on the youth? I bet not. I give up now since it is a well known fact that unless the "user/addict" wants to recover they will not. It is unfortunate some must wait until it hits their family hard or they lose controls and must quit..Since some of the problems are such that the brain continues to demand the drugs until the user hits bottom which can be just an embarrasment for some and some in a Crisis center it is a waste of time until the person wants to quit. It is a statistical fact, well supported that 20% will come from pot users. :wave:

[blueash]

Didn't his mother ever tell him, "don't run with scissors"?

A sharp comment
A pointed retort
Cut to the heart of the matter
Aorta thought of that myself
Stick to the vein of my postings

[Bruiser1]

As you consider your vote on the liberalization of the control of marijuana proposed for Florida, you may want to consider this pointed reminder of the risks of pot. It doesn't take an overly sharp intellect to grasp the dangers of drugs and this case once again cuts to the quick with its brief but rapier like analysis of the unfortunate death of Barry Wilson.

Ky man dies from pot (http://www.local8now.com/home/headlines/Man-carrying-pot-plant-trips-stabs-self-with-knife-269763821.html)

This reminds me of the story of the football player that punctured his eardrum while removing his shoulder pads.

He had a Q-tip in his ear as the tried to remove his jersey and shoulder pad.

Note to self:

1.remove Q-tip

2. remove shoulder pad
:crap2:

[John_W]

I would think some of the biggest opponents of legalization would be the alcohol companies and bars and restaurants. In the 70's and 80's I knew many people who smoked pot, never saw them get into a fight or get thrown out of a bar, club, concert, etc. Actually for the most part, pot will make you mellow, less confrontational. I don't put anything into my lungs anymore, but I don't have a problem if someone else wants to. I rather have a neighbor who smokes a little weed on the weekend than one that drinks a case of beer.

[CFrance]

A sharp comment
A pointed retort
Cut to the heart of the matter
Aorta thought of that myself
Stick to the vein of my postings
Good one! Especially the aorta part.

[PennBF]

One person would rather have a "drunk" next door than someone that is "Stoned"
Am I the only one that sees the crazy humor in this? It points out all that can be said.:jester:

[Russ_Boston]

One person would rather have a "drunk" next door than someone that is "Stoned"
Am I the only one that sees the crazy humor in this? It points out all that can be said.:jester:

I think they said the opposite?

[buggyone]

[QUOTE=PennBF;918612] "Pot usage is not funny to the professionals who have to deal with the after effects and watch patients die, or ruin their families, etc. The last I heard cigarettes were not illegal and not an entry level drug."

Cigarette smoking and second hand cigarette smoke is certainly dangerous. Cigarette smoking is highly addictive and causes terrible diseases like emphysema and lung cancer.

I doubt if you find a single health professional saying it is funny to watch patients die with those after effects of cigarette smoking.

[PennBF]

Your right Russ. How could I be so stupid. Of course some would rather have someone stoned next door than a drunk. Funny.It doesn't matter how you say it, upside down or backward it is still kind of a strange way of deciding who you want next door. :wave::wave:

[rubicon]

The marijuana being produced today substantially more potent with more variations than those 60's baby boomers recollect.

marijuana has 4 times more tar content than cigarettes. a KY man falls on a knife a Denver 20 something jumps to her death stoned from mj

I was on the Board of an organization that dealt with homeless teens Monitoring group session at the rehab center brought me to tears.

I am totally against legalization , however, I might agree if (1)
To use the oil extract from mj for medical use may be fine because in this manner the benefit of the drug is obtained without the high effect.

(2) Also if the medical use is metered for monitoring so that it is strictly enforced.

Colorado, Oregon, etc will rue the day they agreed to legalize mj. Denver is already experiencing a high influx of homeless people. People are using their food stamps to by legal mj A familiar pattern begins to emerge

I am going to vote against the legalization of marijuana in the pill mill capital of the world ( Florida) as we already have more dead beat druggies than we can handle now

I also agree with those posters who point out that comparing marijuana to alcohol or cigarettes is a specious claim

[gomoho]

One person would rather have a "drunk" next door than someone that is "Stoned"
Am I the only one that sees the crazy humor in this? It points out all that can be said.:jester:

I believe your misunderstanding is a good argument against the legalization of marijuana. Little "high" are we???

[Bizdoc]

They could make watching "Reefer Madness" required in the schools and at the new resident orientation sessions...

[PennBF]

Has anyone EVER had a person who works in a Crisis Center or Rehab agree to he usage of any drug? Has any addiction center taught classes on the advantages of drug? Has any Rehab told the families who attended "Family Sessions" for their addicted family member told them [family] that it would be OK if the person returning from rehab uses pot? Has any ressponsible Professional counceling addition patients said it would be OK for them to use the drug pot. A couple of caveat's: (a) Usage of pot for serious medical purposes would be considered appropriate, (b) Meth is just another way of replacing one drug with another!:wave:

[blue72]

A sharp comment
A pointed retort
Cut to the heart of the matter
Aorta thought of that myself
Stick to the vein of my postings

Excellent Point!!!!!!!

[gomoho]

Has anyone EVER had a person who works in a Crisis Center or Rehab agree to he usage of any drug? Has any addiction center taught classes on the advantages of drug? Has any Rehab told the families who attended "Family Sessions" for their addicted family member told them [family] that it would be OK if the person returning from rehab uses pot? Has any ressponsible Professional counceling addition patients said it would be OK for them to use the drug pot. A couple of caveat's: (a) Usage of pot for serious medical purposes would be considered appropriate, (b) Meth is just another way of replacing one drug with another!:wave:

Probably not - so what's your point?

[buggyone]

"Meth is just replacing one drug with another."

What he heck does this mean? Is the poster saying people are replacing marijuana usage with meth usage and saying it is a good thing to do?

I have heard of treating heroin addiction with methadone but methadone is not the same as "meth" which is short for methamphetamine. I doubt if any Rehab Center calls methadone by "meth".

[CFrance]

"Meth is just replacing one drug with another."

What he heck does this mean? Is the poster saying people are replacing marijuana usage with meth usage and saying it is a good thing to do?

I have heard of treating heroin addiction with methadone but methadone is not the same as "meth" which is short for methamphetamine. I doubt if any Rehab Center calls methadone by "meth".

I'm thinking he meant methodone?

[redwitch]

If you talk to most addicts, they'll tell you that first they smoked cigarettes, then they drank alcohol, then came grass and then hard drugs. So, wouldn't the gateway drug be nicotine or alcohol? And let's not forget that there are more people in rehab for alcoholism and prescription drug abuse than for heroin, cocaine or meth. Never heard of anyone in rehab for pot addiction although I'm sure there are some.

There are many people who have smoked grass but never went on to something stronger.

Regardless, a post that was obviously meant to be humorous in a very sarcastic way has turned into a diatribe about the dangers of marijuana usage. Shame we couldn't just stick to the stupidity of someone climbing a fence with hands full.

[DougB]

As you consider your vote on the liberalization of the control of marijuana proposed for Florida, you may want to consider this pointed reminder of the risks of pot. It doesn't take an overly sharp intellect to grasp the dangers of drugs and this case once again cuts to the quick with its brief but rapier like analysis of the unfortunate death of Barry Wilson.

Ky man dies from pot (http://www.local8now.com/home/headlines/Man-carrying-pot-plant-trips-stabs-self-with-knife-269763821.html)

Blue, that link was a real buzz killer, dude.

[blueash]

Blue, that link was a real buzz killer, dude.


Yah, I'm sorry bro.

[B767drvr]

The #1 killer in America is heart disease. You'd save far more lives outlawing steak than pot. :)

The causality between prostate cancer (#1 most diagnosed cancer in America) and dairy is the same as smoking cigarettes and lung cancer. You'd save far more lives outlawing milk!

If pot is a gateway drug (>100 million users in America each year) then we should have > 100 million heroin addicts! Where are they all hiding? :)

How many Youtube videos has anyone watched where two pot smokers beat the snot out of each other? Answer = NONE!

How many videos/real life incidents have we all watched with drunk idiots beating the snot out of each other? LOTS. :(

How many epileptics have had their lives SAVED by marijuana? Not sure…? Google it! :)

Time for many to shake off the "marijuana is a schedule 1 drug" BS and learn for themselves why this plant was ORIGINALLY deemed "illegal". HINT: follow the $!

[Polar Bear]

...The causality between prostate cancer...and dairy is the same as smoking cigarettes and lung cancer...

No need to read further...you lost all credibility with that statement.

[KeepingItReal]

Pretty much says it all....motivation is just one casualty of pot use.

Afroman - Because I Got High - YouTube

[PennBF]

It is really incredible how many are in denial, lack any education on the subject. think drugs are fun, have no appreciation for the impact on family. In fact some of the comments are outrages in their lack of any thoughts of human suffering.
To not know what "Meth" is, to believe cigarettes are a "gate way drug", to not know what it means to say meth is really another way of replacing one drug with another, and so many so on's just demonstrates the terrible lack of knowledge of drugs and shows the sorrowful state we are in with this being the level and depth of our society. At this stage I am not sure if given the knowledge of the suffering it would have any impact or effect on this section of our society? I can honestly say I never expected so many to want, or support drugs and/or have no understanding of the terrible effects it has not only on the person but their children, families, and society. :pray:

[KeepingItReal]

First Time Pot Use Violence:

2 deaths linked to pot use causes controversy in Colorado | Las Vegas Review-Journal (http://www.reviewjournal.com/news/nation-and-world/2-deaths-linked-pot-use-causes-controversy-colorado)


By SADIE GURMAN
ASSOCIATED PRESS
DENVER — A college student eats more than the recommended dose of a marijuana-laced cookie and jumps to his death from a hotel balcony. A husband with no history of violence is accused of shooting his wife in the head, possibly after eating pot-infused candy.

The two recent deaths have stoked concerns about Colorado’s recreational marijuana industry and the effects of the drug, especially since cookies, candy and other pot edibles can be exponentially more potent than a joint.

“We’re seeing hallucinations, they become sick to their stomachs, they throw up, they become dizzy and very anxious,” said Al Bronstein, medical director of the Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug Center.

[buggyone]

"To not know what "Meth" is, to not know what it means to say meth is really another way of replacing one drug with another, and so many so on's just demonstrates the terrible lack of knowledge of drugs."

I honestly do not know what you mean. Please explain what is meant by "meth" if it is not methamphetamine and what it means to say that meth is really another way of replacing one drug with another. Thank you.

[B767drvr]

No need to read further...you lost all credibility with that statement.

Less than 5 MINUTES of research will yield what I said. Always amazed at the "lack of motivation" of some.

[redwitch]

Well, since one of the comments is directed towards me, I suggest you read what I wrote again. If you're going to state that marijuana is a gateway drug, then maybe you should look at the addict. Most started with nicotine. I was trying to make the point that the fault lies not with marijuana but with the individual. Some are more likely to experiment, some are more suggestive to peer pressure, some are more genetically inclined towards addiction. Marijuana is no more to blame than alcohol or nicotine. And most pot smokers are not addicts. Yes, drug abuse is tragic and that's true whether that drug is alcohol, prescription drugs or illegal drugs.

[B767drvr]

Continues to amaze me how some always want others to tell them what is safe, or healthy or acceptable. It's as if they're unable to learn and choose their path. These people prefer a "group" (elected or unelected) choose what is "good" and what is "bad". I imagine this is what it's like to live under authoritarian rule.

How about we each choose for ourselves what we wish to consume, so long as we don't endanger others by our choices (driving while impaired, for example.)

Those who wish to kill themselves through an unhealthy diet are free to, and those who wish to accept whatever risk is associated with marijuana are free to also. Just don't endanger others, or make THEM pay for YOUR choices!

[Polar Bear]

Less than 5 MINUTES of research will yield what I said. Always amazed at the "lack of motivation" of some.

Maybe you should consider MORE than 5 MINUTES of research. It would yield plenty of information to rebuke the claim. Always amazed at the "willingness and ease" with which some will twist the facts.

[wazoga]

I’am not sure but from observations over the years, it seems to me that every one I have ever met who used pot started first, as a child, with milk. so i deduce that milk must be the terrible gateway drug we should condemn.

Post hoc ergo propter hoc

[B767drvr]

Maybe you should consider MORE than 5 MINUTES of research. It would yield plenty of information to rebuke the claim. Always amazed at the "willingness and ease" with which some will twist the facts.

"Information" is far different from "peer-reviewed scientific study", which I am referring to.

But hey, I'm NOT telling you to do anything. Make up your own mind and make the choices in life YOU think are best for you. That's my overall point. As long as YOUR choices don't infringe on me (or make me pay for your choices!), you're absolutely free to consume whatever you wish!

See the difference between that stance and those that want "others" to tell them what's ok and not ok?

[Barefoot]

Well, since one of the comments is directed towards me, I suggest you read what I wrote again. If you're going to state that marijuana is a gateway drug, then maybe you should look at the addict.

Most started with nicotine. I was trying to make the point that the fault lies not with marijuana but with the individual. Some are more likely to experiment, some are more suggestive to peer pressure, some are more genetically inclined towards addiction. Marijuana is no more to blame than alcohol or nicotine. And most pot smokers are not addicts.

Yes, drug abuse is tragic and that's true whether that drug is alcohol, prescription drugs or illegal drugs.

:agree:

[Patty55]

"Information" is far different from "peer-reviewed scientific study", which I am referring to.

But hey, I'm NOT telling you to do anything. Make up your own mind and make the choices in life YOU think are best for you. That's my overall point. As long as YOUR choices don't infringe on me (or make me pay for your choices!), you're absolutely free to consume whatever you wish!

See the difference between that stance and those that want "others" to tell them what's ok and not ok?

Not for nothing but isn't it a little late for us to decide if we are going to be "heads"? Hellooo, I don't think we really need to spend too much time worrying about the long-term effects, if you're living here I'd say that ship has sailed.

I think part of the flaw with these "studies" is that the sample group is already screwy :loco: when they got there. In my country nobody was damaged by it, they went on to be very successful creative people. They never showed up at a rehab center, I know nobody that went on to what we called "the bad drugs"-that would have been way too ghetto.

I haven't done this in years, but thinking back we went through a lot of Velveeta, maybe that's what caused the damage to your control group.

[Barefoot]

Not for nothing but isn't it a little late for us to decide if we are going to be "heads"? Hellooo, I don't think we really need to spend too much time worrying about the long-term effects, if you're living here I'd say that ship has sailed.

I think part of the flaw with these "studies" is that the sample group is already screwy :loco: when they got there. In my country nobody was damaged by it, they went on to be very successful creative people. They never showed up at a rehab center, I know nobody that went on to what we called "the bad drugs"-that would have been way too ghetto.

I haven't done this in years, but thinking back we went through a lot of Velveeta, maybe that's what caused the damage to your control group.

....

[ron122049]

As you consider your vote on the liberalization of the control of marijuana proposed for Florida, you may want to consider this pointed reminder of the risks of pot. It doesn't take an overly sharp intellect to grasp the dangers of drugs and this case once again cuts to the quick with its brief but rapier like analysis of the unfortunate death of Barry Wilson.

Ky man dies from pot (http://www.local8now.com/home/headlines/Man-carrying-pot-plant-trips-stabs-self-with-knife-269763821.html)

It's unfortunate about Barry Wilson. HOWEVER, some people kill themselves handling their firearms, some drive too fast or recklessly, others drink themselves to death or continue to smoke. I think you get my point! As a former prosecutor and criminal defense attorney I can assure you that there is a significant amount of taxpayers money spent on enforcing laws for possession or use of SMALL amounts of pot. It's a total waste of time and money and by the way has not deterred the continued use of it. I say legalize it, regulate it and tax it!

[Wkcarter]

As one ponders how they will vote on the marihuana issue consider this one question:
Knowing that some physicians , only a small percentage, will prescribe anything.
If medical marihuana become legal and a child is prescribed marihuana. The school will have to allow that patient the availability to receive their dosage even if they have a no smoking policy. One cannot keep medication from someone if it is legally prescribed.

[rubicon]

The #1 killer in America is heart disease. You'd save far more lives outlawing steak than pot. :)

The causality between prostate cancer (#1 most diagnosed cancer in America) and dairy is the same as smoking cigarettes and lung cancer. You'd save far more lives outlawing milk!

If pot is a gateway drug (>100 million users in America each year) then we should have > 100 million heroin addicts! Where are they all hiding? :)

How many Youtube videos has anyone watched where two pot smokers beat the snot out of each other? Answer = NONE!

How many videos/real life incidents have we all watched with drunk idiots beating the snot out of each other? LOTS. :(

How many epileptics have had their lives SAVED by marijuana? Not sure…? Google it! :)

Time for many to shake off the "marijuana is a schedule 1 drug" BS and learn for themselves why this plant was ORIGINALLY deemed "illegal". HINT: follow the $!

The latest from the experts is that steak/meat is good for you and one columnist headlined it as "a steak a day keeps the doctor away" further experts contend that those over 65 should eat more if it because their rate of absorption is severely declined. Stay tuned because another expert will come along and over turn these studies.

HOWEVER the biggest issue I personally find with this marijuana issue is with ALL THE SERIOUS PROBLEMS WE HAVE IN THIS COUNTRY OUR STATE AND FEDERAL LEADERS ARE WASTING TIME AND RESOURCES PLACING LEGALIZATION AS A TOP PRIORITY.

[graciegirl]

Good morning everyone.

I missed Woodstock.

I'm glad.

And when pot becomes legal, and someone runs into you under it's influence and kills you, don't come cryin ' to me.

[Djembe dude]

so will alcohol. not many things that won't kill you.

[Tobys Dad]

It's unfortunate about Barry Wilson. HOWEVER, some people kill themselves handling their firearms, some drive too fast or recklessly, others drink themselves to death or continue to smoke. I think you get my point! As a former prosecutor and criminal defense attorney I can assure you that there is a significant amount of taxpayers money spent on enforcing laws for possession or use of SMALL amounts of pot. It's a total waste of time and money and by the way has not deterred the continued use of it. I say legalize it, regulate it and tax it!

You nailed it. I agree 100%!!!!:spoken:

[Tobys Dad]

Good morning everyone.

I missed Woodstock.

I'm glad.

And when pot becomes legal, and someone runs into you under it's influence and kills you, don't come cryin ' to me.

When someone's prescribed drug makes them drowsy and they run into you don't come crying to me. My point is there are hundreds of reasons people have accidents, pot smokers a small minority. Texters, drinkers, drifty people etc!

[PennBF]

Some examples of the level of knowledge or education a few readers have honored others with:
The ship has sailed for Villager's..No concern with examples being sent to youth, know no one went from gateway pot..now there is an argument to allow people to get high and put others at risk, (e.g. driving, etc.). waste of taxpayer dollars to press charges..how about the taxpayer $$'s spent for the institutions to treat users which is really sizable, so will alchol cause problems..right so what the heck why not just expand the use of drugs to cause more problems..now that is a solution, cigrattes a gateway drug..now that does not even deserve the ink to answer..what's the problem if we don't endanger others..another great solution to drug usage and it's impacts, clear this was not a well thought out response, pick the choice best for you. and you wonder why our society is so screwed up with this level of thinking, and the greatest one.. there are 100 million heroin users so where are the 100 million pot users..problem with reading comprehension since all notes say 20% move on which would be 20 million and yes 20 million of users moved from pot. Think the writer got the statistics messed up since I think it is all drug users? These are just a few of the comments which support the usage of a gateway drug. Not one has quoted a Professional involved with Crisis Centers or Rehabs as asserting the use of pot is acceptable. Quoting either Dr's who don't deal with working with the addicts recoveries or Prosecuters who don't want to be bothered with these poor souls is missing the mark. How about one of those that think it is fine attending a NA meeting and hearing the tragic stories. I would bet NOT ONE of the submitters to this thread has attended NA meetings on a regular basis, attented a family session at a Rehab center and talked to the Counselors or a Crisis Center and saw the misery the patients are going through. Wanna Bet..:wave:

[blueash]

HOWEVER the biggest issue I personally find with this marijuana issue is with ALL THE SERIOUS PROBLEMS WE HAVE IN THIS COUNTRY OUR STATE AND FEDERAL LEADERS ARE WASTING TIME AND RESOURCES PLACING LEGALIZATION AS A TOP PRIORITY.

I think you are going the right direction but have stopped before you reached the end of your journey. State and federal leaders are not spending time and resources on legalization. They spend time and resources on criminalization, investigation, incarceration and probation. The estimates are in the several billions per year. While this is certainly good for the jail industry I suspect that locking people up for smoking a joint is not slowing the use of weed any more than locking up people for having sex has stopped normal people from that activity It just makes you more careful about when and where and contributes to a disrespect for the priorities of law enforcement.

[Villages PL]

As you consider your vote on the liberalization of the control of marijuana proposed for Florida, you may want to consider this pointed reminder of the risks of pot. It doesn't take an overly sharp intellect to grasp the dangers of drugs and this case once again cuts to the quick with its brief but rapier like analysis of the unfortunate death of Barry Wilson.

Ky man dies from pot (http://www.local8now.com/home/headlines/Man-carrying-pot-plant-trips-stabs-self-with-knife-269763821.html)

Is this a true story? If so, I would like to remind everyone that this case is still under investigation. He may NOT have accidentally stabbed himself!

I have a theory: Someone, possibly a Dexter Morgan wannabe, knew of some serious crimes that were committed by the man who was stabbed and they decided to kill him and make it look like an accident.

I just did a search: "Is it normal to wannabe like Dexter Morgan?"

Basically, four kids replied "yes, it's normal". They love him and they wish they could do it themselves.

[PennBF]

This thread has both a degree of humor because of the statements as to personal opinions to support drug usage and traggic sadness because of the personal opinions to support drug usage. Get real. Just show one benefit to society in using pot excluding medical purposes. The pot users are putting our youth at serious risk and I believe there should be serious consequences when this is done. Yep, I think jail time is appropriate and mandatory programs to attend drug education programs and weekly NA meeting for a minimum of 1 year. Couldn't care less if someone wants to go out and kill themselves but it is different when our youth are put at risk. :rant-rave:

[Barefoot]

As a former prosecutor and criminal defense attorney I can assure you that there is a significant amount of taxpayers money spent on enforcing laws for possession or use of SMALL amounts of pot. It's a total waste of time and money and by the way has not deterred the continued use of it. I say legalize it, regulate it and tax it!
This makes sense to me.
I hope by regulating the sale of pot, that minors would have restricted access.

[Tennisnut]

[/B]
This makes sense to me.
I hope by regulating the sale of pot, that minors would have restricted access.

Just wait a few more years - its just a matter of time. Lets have hope and changes will continue.

[buggyone]

This thread has both a degree of humor because of the statements as to personal opinions to support drug usage and traggic sadness because of the personal opinions to support drug usage. Get real. Just show one benefit to society in using pot excluding medical purposes. The pot users are putting our youth at serious risk and I believe there should be serious consequences when this is done. Yep, I think jail time is appropriate and mandatory programs to attend drug education programs and weekly NA meeting for a minimum of 1 year. Couldn't care less if someone wants to go out and kill themselves but it is different when our youth are put at risk. :rant-rave:

Just show one beneficial use of pot excluding medicinal purposes? Huh? Is there ANY beneficial use at all of cigarette smoking?

Jail time for smoking pot? Lots of Villagers would be in jail in that scenario.

Marijuana should be legal and controlled just like cigarettes and alcoholic drinks.

[PennBF]

Maybe a lot of Villager's should be experiencing the cosequences of overuse of alchol ! Because we are older does not mean we have a license to make fools of ourselves and hurt other people. A drunk is a drunk is a drunk. Unfortunately in a lot of cases the spouce suffers because of the drunk in the house. I guess I should have included AA in my note along with NA. Nope, there is no benefit to cigarette's, but the last I heard they were not illegal. To compare cigarette's to pot is way overdone and kind of on the low end of smarts. I really emphasis
that the ones in the notes who are supporting these drugs should attend an AA meeting and/or NA meeting. Since most are in denial I would bet they will avoid education. Go to the internet and look up AA meetings in The Villages. You will be shocked as how many there are. You can also look up NA and Al Non and attend and observe how many families are injured by the user in the family. Oh yea, for those who like pot and drugs look up the NA meetings. :wave:

[Tennisnut]

Maybe a lot of Villager's should be experiencing the cosequences of overuse of alchol ! Because we are older does not mean we have a license to make fools of ourselves and hurt other people. A drunk is a drunk is a drunk. Unfortunately in a lot of cases the spouce suffers because of the drunk in the house. I guess I should have included AA in my note along with NA. Nope, there is no benefit to cigarette's, but the last I heard they were not illegal. To compare cigarette's to pot is way overdone and kind of on the low end of smarts. I really emphasis
that the ones in the notes who are supporting these drugs should attend an AA meeting and/or NA meeting. Since most are in denial I would bet they will avoid education. Go to the internet and look up AA meetings in The Villages. You will be shocked as how many there are. You can also look up NA and Al Non and attend and observe how many families are injured by the user in the family. Oh yea, for those who like pot and drugs look up the NA meetings. :wave:

Yes, I agree substance abuse is a real problem, however, responsible use of substances can be beneficial whether it be food, alcohol or other drugs. Responsible eating, a nice glass of wine or cold beer, or responsible intake of THC can be very enjoyable experience. Abuse of any substance can hurt ones self and/or others.

[DougB]

:popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn:

[rp001]

Maybe a lot of Villager's should be experiencing the cosequences of overuse of alchol ! Because we are older does not mean we have a license to make fools of ourselves and hurt other people. A drunk is a drunk is a drunk. Unfortunately in a lot of cases the spouce suffers because of the drunk in the house. I guess I should have included AA in my note along with NA. Nope, there is no benefit to cigarette's, but the last I heard they were not illegal. To compare cigarette's to pot is way overdone and kind of on the low end of smarts. I really emphasis
that the ones in the notes who are supporting these drugs should attend an AA meeting and/or NA meeting. Since most are in denial I would bet they will avoid education. Go to the internet and look up AA meetings in The Villages. You will be shocked as how many there are. You can also look up NA and Al Non and attend and observe how many families are injured by the user in the family. Oh yea, for those who like pot and drugs look up the NA meetings. :wave:

Obviously you have never tried any of these substances. If you had you would know the difference first hand and perhaps would be a little more tolerant without the " reefer madness" mentality., don't believe everything you read or hear.

[PennBF]

Your right, I have never used any of the drugs being discussed absent of a little while using, not abusing alchol. Of course I have never stuck my hand in a fire but I have a good idea of what it would do. I have, at significant personal expense attended workshops on drug abuses at some of the most respected Foundations, etc in the world. I have been exposed to family who are Professionals in the area and I have made it a point to understand the effects in order to be well educated on the subject. Along these lines a major survey result was just published on "Marijuana" Drug use and Health and it's latest results were that "unsurprisingly" those aged between 18-25 years old are the most popular age group using. Of course everyone knows that the brain is still developing at these ages. Usage rates drop considerably after the age of 26 and and onlye 5% of people over that age still smoked pot on a regular basis. We can conclude that ages between 14-16 are also users and that is when it has the most tragic effect on brain and body. A question is why am I writing on this and not just saying the heck with it and let the chips fall. The reason is that if this helps just one parent or person to understand the real problem with drugs it was worth the effort. We owe it to our youth and the future. :wave:

[Patty55]

Your right, I have never used any of the drugs being discussed absent of a little while using, not abusing alchol. Of course I have never stuck my hand in a fire but I have a good idea of what it would do. I have, at significant personal expense attended workshops on drug abuses at some of the most respected Foundations, etc in the world. I have been exposed to family who are Professionals in the area and I have made it a point to understand the effects in order to be well educated on the subject. Along these lines a major survey result was just published on "Marijuana" Drug use and Health and it's latest results were that "unsurprisingly" those aged between 18-25 years old are the most popular age group using. Of course everyone knows that the brain is still developing at these ages. Usage rates drop considerably after the age of 26 and and onlye 5% of people over that age still smoked pot on a regular basis. We can conclude that ages between 14-16 are also users and that is when it has the most tragic effect on brain and body. A question is why am I writing on this and not just saying the heck with it and let the chips fall. The reason is that if this helps just one parent or person to understand the real problem with drugs it was worth the effort. We owe it to our youth and the future. :wave:

Why have you taken such an intense interest in this?

[Barefoot]

Obviously you have never tried any of these substances. If you had you would know the difference first hand and perhaps would be a little more tolerant without the " reefer madness" mentality., don't believe everything you read or hear.

I forgot about the 1936 film "Reefer Madness".

When I worked at IBM, I hung out with a bunch of 30 something's who had professional jobs and occasionally smoked pot.
They went on to be fine parents and for the most part, had stellar careers.
Today they are loving grandparents and continue to be upstanding members of the community.
I've seen no evidence that leads me to believe that occasional pot use leads to an Addiction Center.
Just saying.

[TennDrifter]

I would think some of the biggest opponents of legalization would be the alcohol companies and bars and restaurants. In the 70's and 80's I knew many people who smoked pot, never saw them get into a fight or get thrown out of a bar, club, concert, etc. Actually for the most part, pot will make you mellow, less confrontational. I don't put anything into my lungs anymore, but I don't have a problem if someone else wants to. I rather have a neighbor who smokes a little weed on the weekend than one that drinks a case of beer.

Well said.... :beer3:

[PennBF]

What an interesting question? Because I have feelings for people , because I was raised in a family that instilled an obligation to "do good" and instilled a responsibility to serve. It is sad that some don't understand this responsibility or what is "right". Ones that don't believe in serving for the good of others and giving back to the community.It must be a terrible way to live to only think of ones self and not care about others!! It is sad that some live the life of selfishness or anger. They have no idea what they are missing out on !! Hopefully that answers why I take interest in people and youth who may screw their lives up on drugs. I don't deserve any credit as it should be expected and not rewarded.:wave:

[Patty55]

What an interesting question? Because I have feelings for people , because I was raised in a family that instilled an obligation to "do good" and instilled a responsibility to serve. It is sad that some don't understand this responsibility or what is "right". Ones that don't believe in serving for the good of others and giving back to the community.It must be a terrible way to live to only think of ones self and not care about others!! It is sad that some live the life of selfishness or anger. They have no idea what they are missing out on !! Hopefully that answers why I take interest in people and youth who may screw their lives up on drugs. I don't deserve any credit as it should be expected and not rewarded.:wave:

Okey Dokey, from your response I'm assuming you aren't a trained professional. MSW? PHD?

You do realize that the link in the OP was meant to be funny, that guy was an idiot. Stoned, not stoned ... he's was an idiot.

I think it's great that you are trying to help but your sample group is skewed. You are only exposed to addicts in a publicly funded rehab facility. Sad as it is, these peoples eggs are cooked. I'm sure smoking now and then is not their only problem.

Do you also take an interest in people and youth who don't screw up their lives with drugs? Do you take an interest in the people who can't read and have no job skills? How about the youths who don't even know there is another way, who have lost the ability to even dream? What are you doing for them?

[rubicon]

Legalization of marijuana as no big deal and being encouraged by the populist notion that it is harmless is a reductive idea. Politicians support legalization because they are trolling for votes. People sent to prison for drugs are victims and have been treated badly. This country is inundated with deniers but, if as a college student I did drugs it can't be bad for my kids and their kids. Its all harmless and part of growing up. Except that wasn't many grandparents experience nor their parents nor some of the war and post war babies.
This entire issue all began with the 1960's we have rights mantra but with each succeeding generation responsibilities and consequences are being ignored and excused.

Medical marijuana if that is the true purpose perhaps would be a good thing such as extracting the oil which provides the medicinal benefit without the high.
However, if there is anyone out there that believes legalization marijuana will keep it out of the hands from drug dealers and for illegal
uses or away from kids then let me tell you about a bridge

It is indeed sad and frightening to see the % of people not fazed by this subject manner. Perhaps we have become so callous , perhaps so socialized concerning this "tune out and turn on"society we have come to discount what we once took pride in calling "clean living"

[PennBF]

I have long ago learned to ignore the ones who try to rip good apart in order to justify a sort of selfish and/or angry life. I don't assert being an expert on the subject of addictions but I have spent hundreds of hours and thousande of dollars attending worldfamous centers for the studies of drug deseases. The sample group is not based on "rehabs, etc" but a newly release study on marijuana. Yes I do have interest in other than drugs, and have qualified in some organizations who work in the area of human miseries. I guess I could ask the writer the same thing..have they worked to improve the lives of others and youths? By the way, there is nothing "funny" about being stoned or getting stoned ! Why would anyone think it is funny to see someone in that state? As someone in a Workshop once asked, would you laugh at someone who has cancer? It would be healthy for a person to ask themselves why they would ever think it is funny or try to justify it. These are symptons of a possible addiction desease. :wave:

[Bay Kid]

I forgot about the 1936 film "Reefer Madness".

When I worked at IBM, I hung out with a bunch of 30 something's who had professional jobs and occasionally smoked pot.
They went on to be fine parents and for the most part, had stellar careers.
Today they are loving grandparents and continue to be upstanding members of the community.
I've seen no evidence that leads me to believe that occasional pot use leads to an Addiction Center.
Just saying.

In 1968 I went to Frederick Military Academy. The 1st week of school we learned the military life. In the evening they showed us movies, one was Reefer Madness. Being a country boy, raised Baptist, I thought the word drugs was from the drugstore. Well did this movie, and my fellow cadets, change my knowledge of the subject. Somehow I survived, raised a family and still run a business. Just saying....

[rp001]

What an interesting question? Because I have feelings for people , because I was raised in a family that instilled an obligation to "do good" and instilled a responsibility to serve. It is sad that some don't understand this responsibility or what is "right". Ones that don't believe in serving for the good of others and giving back to the community.It must be a terrible way to live to only think of ones self and not care about others!! It is sad that some live the life of selfishness or anger. They have no idea what they are missing out on !! Hopefully that answers why I take interest in people and youth who may screw their lives up on drugs. I don't deserve any credit as it should be expected and not rewarded.:wave:

If you truly want to enlighten others of the dangers of drug use I have a suggestion. Perhaps your time would be better spent preaching the dangers of Real drugs, such as nicotine( highly addictive and deadly), sugar, crack cocaine, meth amphetamine, and the rising use of heroin. The latest fad of the kids is mommy 's scrips. Marijuana has been repeatedly proved to be non addictive and to date nothing detrimental to our health has been proven. Just like any mind altering substance there is room for abuse and that is not in our venue to control. Prohibition has been tried and you lost. Emphasis on the right topic will certainly improve the credibility of your argument.

[PennBF]

Just lack of education and need to escape life:Listed below are some true facts:
- It can speed the heart rate up by 5 times, cause heart attacks,- school performances are reduced and impaired-the memory is impaired-lessons the ability to solve problems-in some cases can cause psychotic symptons-impacts the body ability to fight infections-impact on reproductions-shrinks the stem of the brain, many etc's. Major and significant impacts on 14-25 year olds. Same probems in school carry on to early employments. Ever try to manage someone who just smoked pot?
When questioning youth as to why they use. Some answers were:-Fit in, relax-relieve boredom- seem grown up-rebel-experiment. They think the drug is the solution and eventually the drug becomes the problem. They distort the user perceptions.
Of course there are many more serious problems. I will not spend more time as I should not be doing the work for the user.:mornincoffee:

[matasu]

Do you realize that more people die from vehicle accident in the US? Or from household accidents, electrocution, drowning, falls etc. SO if I want to get high why not. All I will get is chubby from the munchies!!Come on stop being so judgmental.

[buggyone]

Of course, marijuana is a bad thing for teenagers but I am sure almost any teenager knows where they can buy it. No one is advocating marijuana usage for teenagers.

Personally, I believe cigarettes are worse than marijuana. Nicotine is addictive. The smoke inhaled into the lungs causes emphysema and cancer - and the treatment money comes out of our tax money through Medicare and Medicaid.

[Patty55]

Just lack of education and need to escape life:Listed below are some true facts:
- It can speed the heart rate up by 5 times, cause heart attacks,- school performances are reduced and impaired-the memory is impaired-lessons the ability to solve problems-in some cases can cause psychotic symptons-impacts the body ability to fight infections-impact on reproductions-shrinks the stem of the brain, many etc's. Major and significant impacts on 14-25 year olds. Same probems in school carry on to early employments. Ever try to manage someone who just smoked pot?
When questioning youth as to why they use. Some answers were:-Fit in, relax-relieve boredom- seem grown up-rebel-experiment. They think the drug is the solution and eventually the drug becomes the problem. They distort the user perceptions.
Of course there are many more serious problems. I will not spend more time as I should not be doing the work for the user.:mornincoffee:

Simply put .... NOKD

[benj]

If anyone is worried about the side effects of pot,other than feeling good, just listen to or read the side effects for any drug their selling on tv. If that don't scare you nothing will. Yet lots of people buy them.
Maybe minding our own business and letting adults make their own decisions on such things would be better for all.

[PennBF]

It is truly amazing how many actually have no knowledge of drugs or their differenct effects BUT are willing to expose the youth to the disadvantages as long as they can get high. Sad but true. There is a classic theory among professional that you can't help an addict to get better. They must recognize their problem and decide for themselves that they want to get better. I dont' think I have ever seen this more true than in this thread. I would encourge them to attend an NA (Narcartics Anoymous) or AA (Achhol Anoymous) or Al Non
which is meant for those who are in the family or a close friend of a drug or alcohol user. They can go on the Internet and look up all of the meetings they can attend in The Villages. If you don't think it is a problem look up the many meeting which will give you an idea of how many are now looking for help.I guarantee you there are a large percentages who thought it fine and they could control it and ignored the impact it had on the family and in particular the children who didn't deserve these selfish users. :icon_bored:

[coolkayaker1]

The bottom line is that the proponents of legalization of marijuana view it as a benign drug, whereas the opponents of its legalization understand that the argument is not truly about whether it's more or less potent than alcohol, but rather: do we want another mind-altering substance widely used in our communities.

Flat answer: No.

[ron122049]

Just lack of education and need to escape life:Listed below are some true facts:
- It can speed the heart rate up by 5 times, cause heart attacks,- school performances are reduced and impaired-the memory is impaired-lessons the ability to solve problems-in some cases can cause psychotic symptons-impacts the body ability to fight infections-impact on reproductions-shrinks the stem of the brain, many etc's. Major and significant impacts on 14-25 year olds. Same probems in school carry on to early employments. Ever try to manage someone who just smoked pot?
When questioning youth as to why they use. Some answers were:-Fit in, relax-relieve boredom- seem grown up-rebel-experiment. They think the drug is the solution and eventually the drug becomes the problem. They distort the user perceptions.
Of course there are many more serious problems. I will not spend more time as I should not be doing the work for the user.:mornincoffee:

Ok, I'm not giving you the last word on this although you have attempted to persuade all of the rest of us of the validity and "rightness" of your position with your many posts on this thread. Let's just say that it appears from most of the comments written that you are in the minority on this subject. You had your soapbox not let's give it a rest already.

[Patty55]

I really do believe that without drugs we wouldn't have the internet. Yep, you all would be googling with 3x5 cards :22yikes:.

[janmcn]

The question on the ballot in this upcoming fall election only pertains to medical marijuana, not the recreational use of marijuana. Florida is probably a long, long way from legalizing pot smoking for fun.

Any ballot initiative requires a 60% majority to pass, so it is a pretty heavy lift to pass anything. Posters on this forum get one vote, same as every other registered voter in Florida.

[PennBF]

One actually looks at this as a "win lose" and it is important they win some arguement. It is not possible to reach anyone who thinks this is win lose. I would hope it is win win.? I like the point of OK you have had your say so now move on and let us who want another drug have it. Wow, now that's an intelligent approach to drugs! As I said only those who want to quit will quit and the responsibility is not to have the youth think it is good for them. In conclusion it is totally irresponsible to take the position that the kids will get it anyway so
back off. That attitude is what screws our society up!!:cold:

[stroglass]

And so does. Alcohol

[stroglass]

And so does alcohol

[rubicon]

So if someone is feeling kind of down and needs a pick me up marijuana is just the right choice. What's wrong with a little high. I'll bet my young children don't even notice that I am acting a little out of it even though I am giggling for no reason. and you bet I have total control of my reactions and so I'll just put my kids in their car seats and go to McDonalds because suddenly I got the munchies . I did get a little miffed at my kid because he said I smelled and ought to air out my clothes. dope is so cool. What was I just saying?

[PennBF]

As mentioned in a note that wanted me to give it up I am going to do that as I think it is worn out and not much more to gain from additional input. As a parting point. Those families and children who may be suffering from someone in the family who is addicted..Please consider going to an al non meeting in The Villages. You can get the schedules by checking for schedules in the Internet. You will be more than welcome and I am sure you will receive great help in dealing with the person using drugs, or drinking too much. I guess if one
person ended up going to a meeting all of the time I spent writing to this thread would have been more than worth it. :mmmm:

[buggyone]

The OP has gone on and on about the dangers of marijuana and being such an addictive and dangerous drug.

The OP never acknowledged the addictiveness of nicotine nor the very real and proven danger of drawing cigarette smoke into the throat and lungs that causes emphysema and various cancers. Not only does it sicken and kill people but the costs are borne through Medicare and Medicaid.

[PennBF]

As they say..you can't fix "stupid". OK, cigarette's are bad, alcohol is bad. Now how does saying that reduces the impact of pot. :mornincoffee:

[Tennisnut]

As they say..you can't fix "stupid". OK, cigarette's are bad, alcohol is bad. Now how does saying that reduces the impact of pot. :mornincoffee:

Who says alcohol is bad? Some say alcohol is good and has beneficial effects. As they say, any abuse of a substance is bad and "The dose makes the poison". Moderation is the key, and, unfortunately, we have abusers of legal as well as illegal substances. The powers to be decide what the illegal substances are, however, that decision can change and has changed throughout history.

[KeepingItReal]

[/B]
This makes sense to me.
I hope by regulating the sale of pot, that minors would have restricted access.

Especially since this approach (restricted access) has worked so well with alcohol and tobacco, we should have no worries that any minors would be able to get pot.

[KeepingItReal]

As a former prosecutor and criminal defense attorney I can assure you that there is a significant amount of taxpayers money spent on enforcing laws for possession or use of SMALL amounts of pot. It's a total waste of time and money and by the way has not deterred the continued use of it. I say legalize it, regulate it and tax it!

No doubt there is also a significant amount of taxpayer money spent on enforcing liquor and drunk driving laws and yet we still try to enforce them and we still have drunk drivers so apparently it hasn't deterred that behavior either. Should we just give up since it obviously hasn't achieved the desired result?

[blueash]

The OP has gone on and on about the dangers of marijuana and being such an addictive and dangerous drug.

The OP never acknowledged the addictiveness of nicotine nor the very real and proven danger of drawing cigarette smoke into the throat and lungs that causes emphysema and various cancers. Not only does it sicken and kill people but the costs are borne through Medicare and Medicaid.

As I understand it OP means original poster, which for this thread would mean me. I have not been at all involved in any discussion about the dangers of pot nor any of the other stuff to which this thread has descended. So I don't think your comments were directed at me. I just started it as I thought the untimely demise of one man was worth shall I say, noting.

[rubicon]

As Cheech & Chong groupies say "A family that smokes pot together, stays together". :loco: Just read another article in the paper this morning and it started out about pot smoking teens dropping out.

If the vote in Florida is for legalization of marijuana for medical purposes I hope the voter will read the fine print because in every state so far it has been method and means to get it legalized [p]eriod. Before voting I intend to secure details as to medical methods of use, safeguards alternate treatments, etc. because this is a far fetched idea that has been pushed by the usual suspects with profits as motive. Marijuana oil extract and metered method may be doable

[PennBF]

How far will some go to avoid a good life. To give some insight there are even Cheech and Chong being used as reference and support. Now that says it all. This may be one way to "thin the herd"? I guess approval of all drugs would help to thin the herd and is just what we need to get back to a sane society.?:loco:

[Polar Bear]

As Cheech & Chong groupies say "A family that smokes pot together, stays together"...

That's because none of them would have enough motivation to get off the couch.

[Patty55]

You all do know that Cheech and Chong were comedians, not intended to be role models, don't you?

[PennBF]

They [Cheeech and Chong] were meant as role models and I think the user's should be proud that they picked such outstanding people to carry their banner. It is just being consistent with their beliefs and personal values.:22yikes:

[Chi-Town]

You all do know that Cheech and Chong were comedians, not intended to be role models, don't you?
And also that the OP's post was just ironic humor. And it wouldn't work without the heading.

[Patty55]

They [Cheeech and Chong] were meant as role models and I think the user's should be proud that they picked such outstanding people to carry their banner. It is just being consistent with their beliefs and personal values.:22yikes:

HUH? I guess the same could be said about Dumb & Dumber. I thought it a comedy, perhaps to some it was a role model.

[buggyone]

This thread of 168 replies of pro and con marijuana use all began with an article of someone tripping and falling and accidentally stabbing himself while carrying a marijuana plant and a knife.

It reminds me of an article I read quite some time ago about a man in some Southern state (naturally) who replaced a fuse in his pickup truck with a .22 bullet. Shortly, the bullet heated up, fired, and shot the man in a very unfortunate place. Well, the shallow end of that particular gene pool came to an end.

[Tennisnut]

You know this is the digital age. For some on this post, there are only ones or zeros or black and white. Unfortunately, some can not see there are shades of gray in most discussions and life is analog.

[Chi-Town]

They [Cheeech and Chong] were meant as role models and I think the user's should be proud that they picked such outstanding people to carry their banner. It is just being consistent with their beliefs and personal values.:22yikes:
Cheech Marin, 68, and Tommy Chong, 76, are still going strong including Disney productions. Here's a recent photo:

44204

[Patty55]

Oxycodone is more addictive than marijuana, I don't think anyone would deny it's use for pain management because it is abused by addicts.

I think part of the problem here is that some people get confused between reality and "reality tv". They also can't discern the difference between comedy and role models. Brokaw's Greatest Generation was about role models, Cheech & Chong-not so much.

FWIW, I thought the OP was funny, but hey, I read the link.

[redwitch]

When I was going through chemo, medical marihuana did not exist. The pills were not working for me and I could keep nothing down. My oncologist told me to get some grass from one of my Deadhead friends (this was the Bay Area and everyone had at least one buddy who smoked). I did. It probably saved my life.

Yes, I smoked in college recreationally and for awhile after but quit cause I didn't like the new stuff. Once I was done with chemo, I quit again. Haven't had a joint since but wouldn't hesitate should the need ever arise

Substance abuse is an ugly thing. I've seen the damage it does. Once from a friend addicted to alcohol who was in out of rehab so often that I'm surprised they didn't install a revolving door for him. He finally lost everything. The other was a couple hooked on cocaine. They ultimately got divorced and both moved back in with their parents. It would be nice if marihuana use could be blamed for either of these tragedies, but it can't. The alcoholic never smoked a joint in his life. The male cocaine user smoked occasionally. She never did. Putting something up her nose was fine but never something in her lungs.

As I said previously, you have to factor in the individual. Most who smoke grass are no more likely to become addicts than those who have wine with dinner are likely to become alcoholics.

[Barefoot]

Especially since this approach (restricted access) has worked so well with alcohol and tobacco, we should have no worries that any minors would be able to get pot.
I do think that restricted access has reduced the number of minors able to get access to alcohol and tobacco.
Perhaps that is why so many kids steal drugs from their parents' medicine cabinets. But that is a whole different topic.

I didn't say that "no minors would be able to get pot".
As usual you have exaggerated a poster's comment to emphasize your point of view.
I was speculating that restricted access would hopefully get rid of a lot of the drug pushers hanging around school yards and street corners.


As I said previously, you have to factor in the individual. Most who smoke grass are no more likely to become addicts than those who have wine with dinner are likely to become alcoholics.

I think this is a key point which is often missed.

[tomwed]

What if pot was legalized for everyone over the age of 55? Selling to anyone under the age of 55 would carry the usual consequences of selling to a minor. Most of our years are behind us. How much could go wrong?

[rubicon]

Oxycodone is more addictive than marijuana, I don't think anyone would deny it's use for pain management because it is abused by addicts.

I think part of the problem here is that some people get confused between reality and "reality tv". They also can't discern the difference between comedy and role models. Brokaw's Greatest Generation was about role models, Cheech & Chong-not so much.

FWIW, I thought the OP was funny, but hey, I read the link.

Perhaps..............................

First most people understood the irony of the OP post. However this is one of those trigger issues especially since so many people have been harmed directly or indirectly from our friendly and open drug culture society.
Of course Cheech & Chong were comedians but they represented the sterotypical pot heads and by promoting this nasty lifestyle for money only adds to some folks moral revulsion.

Drug dealers are killing innocent people all over the world so Americans can enjoy their daily high. Say what you will but I don't think its in people's best interest to promote marijuana because it all eventually rolls back together with all drugs.

And for clarity in this discussion let's separate legalization of marijuana from legalization for MEDICINAL PURPOSES. Legalization of pot for the sake of letting people smoke pot is a dumb idea because it will only open this nasty habit to more people causing unintentional consequences and never never preventing the criminal element to maintain control... all it will do is allow states to profit and given the mismanagement by politicians in many states as well as the federal government gives them plenty of motiviation for idiot schemes like this...and I'll bet these same politicians get kick backs

As for medicinal use in some respects it is a straw man argument. However again I say if they can utilize oil extract without the high and/or meter the medicinal components so that it is tightly controlled then that is a good start
AND THERE IS THE OPERATIVE WORD "HIGH" BECAUSE IT CONVEYS THE HONESTY OF THIS ISSUE OF MEDICINAL USE SOLELY AS FOR MEDICINCIAL USE

And the most important point here is that there are more Darwins in our society than ever before and so that 50% of society that depends on the other 50% for support well that former 50% is going to get really bigger and while the latter 50% dig deeper into their tax pockets politicians and drug profiteers will continue to join the 1%

[KeepingItReal]

I do think that restricted access has reduced the number of minors able to get access to alcohol and tobacco.
Perhaps that is why so many kids steal drugs from their parents' medicine cabinets. But that is a whole different topic.

I didn't say that "no minors would be able to get pot".
As usual you have exaggerated a poster's comment to emphasize your point of view.
I was speculating that restricted access would hopefully get rid of a lot of the drug pushers hanging around school yards and street corners.



I think this is a key point which is often missed.


Anyone should recognize restricted access is pretty much a total failure, where are the success stories?

As usual you are saying things like "so many" ect. with no facts to back up anything, just an opinion trying to be presented as facts.....:jester:


Here are some real facts (links below) actually about Canada's drug and alcohol problems among teens:

Does not make sense to make it even more available and easier to get.

TRUE OR FALSE?
1. Smoking marijuana is healthier than cigarettes.
2. Marijuana is not addictive.
3. People under the influence of marijuana drive slower.

ANSWERS
1. FALSE. Marijuana smoke contains over 400 chemicals; many of these are the same harmful chemicals found in tobacco smoke. Long-time users experience the same risks for emphysema, lung cancer and chronic bronchitis.
2. FALSE. Some users suffer withdrawal effects of marijuana and compulsively seek it out. Some estimates put that number at about 10% - roughly the same as for alcohol.
3. TRUE. Drivers under the influence of marijuana usually drive slower. However, their reaction time is longer, their reflexes slower, they drive more tentatively and they may not be able to handle unexpected situations.


www.teenchallenge.ca/get-help/educational-resources/drug-abuse-facts

http://www.teenchallenge.ca/get-help/canadian-drug-crisis

[PennBF]

It is time to "thin the herd" and it appears nature will make that happen thru natual means. After reading about people who are willing to sacrifice the young in order to get a "high", who really don't care about the harm they are doing to society I feel confident nature will naturally thin the herd. Actually it is going on now and even though it is hard to see those who decide that pot is no longer "doing it" and go to more hard drugs it is someting that will untimately help society by "thining the herd". It is an established fact that between 15 and 20% of pot users move on to harder drugs. Ever seen a user in the final throw of drug abuse. Maybe it would ring a bell. Naw, would probably just go into more denial.
Regarding the comment that I must be fun at a party I have to admit that if it takes acting stupid, being in a haze, laughing when it does not make sense, acting disoriented, being obnoxious then I am absolutely not a lot of fun.
As I said. thanks for helping to thin the herd but not for using the youth to do it. :loco:

[Barefoot]

[B]

TRUE OR FALSE?
1. Smoking marijuana is healthier than cigarettes.
2. Marijuana is not addictive.
3. People under the influence of marijuana drive slower.

ANSWERS
1. FALSE. Marijuana smoke contains over 400 chemicals; many of these are the same harmful chemicals found in tobacco smoke. Long-time users experience the same risks for emphysema, lung cancer and chronic bronchitis.
2. FALSE. Some users suffer withdrawal effects of marijuana and compulsively seek it out. Some estimates put that number at about 10% - roughly the same as for alcohol.
3. TRUE. Drivers under the influence of marijuana usually drive slower. However, their reaction time is longer, their reflexes slower, they drive more tentatively and they may not be able to handle unexpected situations.


Based on the info you provided in Point 2 above, in about 10% of cases people become addicted to alcohol or pot. I agree that some people have an addictive personality.

This ties into Redwitch's point:
" As I said previously, you have to factor in the individual. Most who smoke grass are no more likely to become addicts than those who have wine with dinner are likely to become alcoholics."

[KeepingItReal]

Based on the info you provided in Point 2 above, in about 10% of cases people become addicted to alcohol or pot. I agree that some people have an addictive personality.

T [/I]


So 1 in every 10 people that smokes pot we know are going to become addicted, are we saying this is an acceptable amount to become addicted?

This 10% would be in addition to those addicted to these other fun drugs and alcohol:

COCAINE
ECSTACY
HALLUCINOGENS
HEROIN
KHAT
MARIJUANA
METH
PRESCRIPTION NARCOTICS
PRESCRIPTION STIMULANTS
MEPHEDRONE
FENTANYL
INHALANTS, SOLVENTS & GLUE
BENZODIAZEPINES AND BARBITUATES
METHADONE
OXYCONTIN

[CFrance]

So 1 in every 10 people that smokes pot we know are going to become addicted, are we saying this is an acceptable amount to become addicted?
Just like it must be acceptable for one in 10 to become alcoholics? Prohibition didn't work either.

[KeepingItReal]

Just like it must be acceptable for one in 10 to become alcoholics? Prohibition didn't work either.

It's not acceptable, that's the whole point, but alcohol was made a legal substance so we're left to deal with the fallout. Just as we can all agree that restricted access hasn't worked for alcohol ...It won't work for pot.....Why would we want to make it even easier to get pot?

[PennBF]

At the gratitude of many this is my last note on the subject since it is a waste of time. BUT, to show the lack of knowledge and understanding there was a point that the addicts have an "Addictive Personality". In fact there are certain chemical reactions within the brain of an addict and it causes them to demand more once they have been exposed to the various drugs. Given this undisputed medical fact it means that users with this trigger actually cannot control their demand for the drug thus between 15-20% of users will ultimately be addicted. It is not a "personality disorder" but a medical problem. How many actually knew this? Once addicted and after a period of usage and the current level does not satisfy like it did when the user first started they move to more harmful drugs and more harmful usage. How many youths start out with one hit of coke and before long are using 5-10 a day and "wasted". How about the pot is no longer good enough or satisfies and the harder drugs are moved to. It is not a personality disorder it is a medical brain chemical problem. How many of you had the one shot of scotch and then had to have another, etc.etc.etc. You have an addiction problem. AA meeting are filled with persons with these problems. OK for those who are bored with my notes I am going to respect their wish and will move on. I only hope some of this reaches at least one person and all of my time has not been a total waste. :mornincoffee::mornincoffee:

[CFrance]

Just as we can all agree that restricted access hasn't worked either...Why would we want to just make it easier to get?


I believe legalizing, taxing, and restricting will work better than leaving it like it is, with dealers going after elementary school kids and stalking the ghettos, etc. Your way isn't working either.

[KeepingItReal]

I believe legalizing, taxing, and restricting will work better than leaving it like it is, with dealers going after elementary school kids and stalking the ghettos, etc. Your way isn't working either.

Restricting is a joke. Fourth graders in Colorado at least were not trying to sell pot at school before it was made legal there. Just wait and see the additional problems legalization will create if it happens and you likely think it was really working pretty well now! But it will be too late again.....

[Barefoot]

Restricting is a joke. (snipped)

You think restricting access to pot is a joke. I think it is better than unrestricted access.
Let's agree to disagree and leave it at that.

[ron122049]

You think restricting access to pot is a joke. I think it is better than unrestricted access.
Let's agree to disagree and leave it at that.

I agree with you. We have someone on a mission here. ENOUGH ALREADY!

[PennBF]

Just another couple of kids DUI's! I wonder if parents who suffer these terrible pot accidents still think making it more available is the answer??

"The Pine Plains teen on trial in a car crash that killed two friends tested positive for marijuana at the hospital that evening Three more prosecution witnesses testified in Dustin Hale's trial Friday Hale, 17, is accused of driving at high speed and under the influence of marijuana when he crashed his 2000 Subaru Impreza on Schultz Hill Road about 3:50 p.m. Aug. 29. Two fellow Stissing Mountain High School students, Gian Paolo Stagnaro, 17, of Pine Plains and Zachary Pruner, 16, of Stanfordville, died in the crash.
Hale is charged with aggravated vehicular homicide, first-degree vehicular manslaughter and two counts of second-degree manslaughter, all felonies. Opening arguments and testimony started Thursday."

I know I said I would no longer write in but spare me my brief violation of the commitment to highlight the profound risks. I know it could have been alcohol. BUT it wasn't. It was that other drug that would now be easier to get and kill our youth.:mornincoffee:

[Barefoot]

As they say..you can't fix "stupid". OK, cigarette's are bad, alcohol is bad. Now how does saying that reduces the impact of pot.

Penn, I understand that you are deeply committed to your beliefs, and I think the volunteer work you do is very important.
However that doesn't mean the rest of us are stupid, i.e., those of us who believe pot should be legalized and restricted, as opposed to being sold on street corners.

[rubicon]

Will it be a better/safer/cleaner world if our government legalize marijuana? Will the number of people smoking marijuana decrease or increase if marijuana is legalized? Will the behavior of people at work, in school or at other social settings change for the better or for the worse? Will those citizens not marijuana users have to petition their representatives for safety and health laws to protect them from the adverse effects of smoke and/or intoxicated drivers. Will labor laws have to be created to protect workers from industrial accidents? Will employers have the right to refuse employment to people who smoke marijuana because it will disrupt their business environment. will employers be able to fire marijuana users whose performance/absentee record etc is less than satisfactory. Will unions protect marijuana users in the same manner they protect under performers. How will the law treat people who commit crimes under the influence of marijuana? what will state/federal governments do to people who use their food stamps to buy marijuana? HBow will society respond to those marijuana users have hallucinations at business or social events? What will...............

[B767drvr]

Here's a link from a Time magazine article titled, "Decriminalizing Drugs in Portugal a Success, Says Report - Time"

Decriminalizing Drugs in Portugal a Success, Says Report - TIME (http://content.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1893946,00.html)

An excerpt:

>>"Judging by every metric, decriminalization in Portugal has been a resounding success," says Glenn Greenwald, an attorney, author and fluent Portuguese speaker, who conducted the research. "It has enabled the Portuguese government to manage and control the drug problem far better than virtually every other Western country does."

Compared to the European Union and the U.S., Portugal's drug use numbers are impressive. Following decriminalization, Portugal had the lowest rate of lifetime marijuana use in people over 15 in the E.U.: 10%. The most comparable figure in America is in people over 12: 39.8%. Proportionally, more Americans have used cocaine than Portuguese have used marijuana.

<<

[TNLAKEPANDA]

As you consider your vote on the liberalization of the control of marijuana proposed for Florida, you may want to consider this pointed reminder of the risks of pot. It doesn't take an overly sharp intellect to grasp the dangers of drugs and this case once again cuts to the quick with its brief but rapier like analysis of the unfortunate death of Barry Wilson.

Ky man dies from pot (http://www.local8now.com/home/headlines/Man-carrying-pot-plant-trips-stabs-self-with-knife-269763821.html)

Just about anything can kill you! Poor eating and drinking habits are far more likely to kill you and cost you a lot of money.

[CFrance]

Here's a link from a Time magazine article titled, "Decriminalizing Drugs in Portugal a Success, Says Report - Time"

Decriminalizing Drugs in Portugal a Success, Says Report - TIME (http://content.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1893946,00.html)

An excerpt:

>>"Judging by every metric, decriminalization in Portugal has been a resounding success," says Glenn Greenwald, an attorney, author and fluent Portuguese speaker, who conducted the research. "It has enabled the Portuguese government to manage and control the drug problem far better than virtually every other Western country does."

Compared to the European Union and the U.S., Portugal's drug use numbers are impressive. Following decriminalization, Portugal had the lowest rate of lifetime marijuana use in people over 15 in the E.U.: 10%. The most comparable figure in America is in people over 12: 39.8%. Proportionally, more Americans have used cocaine than Portuguese have used marijuana.

<<
Thank you for that information.

[rubicon]

Portugal is not the United States and such a comparison is useless. How are we different let me count the ways

[B767drvr]

>> The Cato report's author, Greenwald, hews to the first point: that the data shows that decriminalization does not result in increased drug use. Since that is what concerns the public and policymakers most about decriminalization, he says, "that is the central concession that will transform the debate."

<<

[B767drvr]

Portugal is not the United States and such a comparison is useless. How are we different let me count the ways

>>At the Cato Institute in early April, Greenwald contended that a major problem with most American drug policy debate is that it's based on "speculation and fear mongering," rather than empirical evidence on the effects of more lenient drug policies.

<<

[B767drvr]

Thank you for that information.

:wave:

[redwitch]

Thanks B7. Sadly, for those opposed, there is no logic or data that will make an iota of difference.

[Patty55]

You all do know that "the kids" already have marijuana, don't you? I haven't smoked in years but if I wanted to I'd quickly figure out where to get it, I think I'd start with the lawn mower kids.

I don't know where the 1 in 10 become addicted comes from, could whoever posted that please provide a link. Allegedly alcoholism has the same odds. Do anyone of you honestly believe that if 10 of us Villages girls went for lunch, each had a glass or two of wine, one would leave the table an alcoholic. I DON'T THINK SO.

Let's bring the family into the equation, I've always told the children in my family the truth. It's not the government or the schools responsibilty to impart values in children.

[Barefoot]

At the Cato Institute in early April, Greenwald contended that a major problem with most American drug policy debate is that it's based on "speculation and fear mongering," rather than empirical evidence on the effects of more lenient drug policies.

///

[rubicon]

Thanks B7. Sadly, for those opposed, there is no logic or data that will make an iota of difference.

There is no logic or data that will make an iota of difference except that each succeeding generation has made their mark for drug abuse since the drop out generation of the 60's . The war on drugs has been such a failure that the politicians decided to join the drug dealers and make a handsome profit on the side. It seems some folks intellecutalize themselves into stupidity. We will see who becomes fearful when the effect of this hits the streets. As a sidebar what role do drugs play in the declining educational scoring of students today? Shall we continue to blame the teachers, to throw more money at the problem???????

In Des Moines in the mid 1980's they did not know they had a serious drug problem in the area until kids started ending up in the emergency rooms until then it was just the usual harmless experimentation.

My kids are grown and set in their ways and i don't have any grand kids so personally the only concern i have is for being taxed for dead beats lack of responsibility and/or being involved in an accident because of a pot heads inability and weakness to deal with life's problems .

[Tennisnut]

Here's a link from a Time magazine article titled, "Decriminalizing Drugs in Portugal a Success, Says Report - Time"

Decriminalizing Drugs in Portugal a Success, Says Report - TIME (http://content.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1893946,00.html)

An excerpt:

>>"Judging by every metric, decriminalization in Portugal has been a resounding success," says Glenn Greenwald, an attorney, author and fluent Portuguese speaker, who conducted the research. "It has enabled the Portuguese government to manage and control the drug problem far better than virtually every other Western country does."

Compared to the European Union and the U.S., Portugal's drug use numbers are impressive. Following decriminalization, Portugal had the lowest rate of lifetime marijuana use in people over 15 in the E.U.: 10%. The most comparable figure in America is in people over 12: 39.8%. Proportionally, more Americans have used cocaine than Portuguese have used marijuana.

<<

This is a study of actual nationwide decriminalization. Do you have any studies for Amsterdam which has similar laws concerning drugs? I would imagine the results are very similar. I wonder if citizens from retirement communities in these countries have similar attitudes to these laws? The majority of posts concerning the use of marijuana are based on lifetime of prejudice, and since most posters have a long lifetime, its a major prejudice!

[CFrance]

Portugal is not the United States and such a comparison is useless. How are we different let me count the ways
I don't see how we are much different than western Europe. If it worked for Portugal, it can work here. The comparison is valid, IMO.

[B767drvr]

Do you have any studies for Amsterdam which has similar laws concerning drugs? I would imagine the results are very similar.

Just a quick search yielded pretty much as you thought:

>>
In light of a hard-drug epidemic in the 1970’s and ‘80’s, the Netherlands sought to keep young people away from heroin and cocaine. Clear distinctions between "soft" and “hard” drugs is how the Netherlands chose to do it. By separating drug markets, they effectively severed the “gateway” potential that many loosely claim pot confers. It seems prohibition, which lumps substances together and necessitates one buy from the black market, may be the gateway culprit rather than cannabis. Scientists from the American Journal of Psychiatry, British Journal of Addiction, and the Institute of Medicine, to name a few, echo these phenomena with scientific studies finding no causal link between cannabis and harder drugs. Should heroin be treated as the same as cannabis or psilocybin? Because of unfair and unscientific drug scheduling in the U.S., many are not able to think and talk intelligently about the drastic difference between these substances.

The Netherlands gained control of their hard drug problem in a couple decades and now boast one of the lowest rates of hard drug use in the European Union because of honest education and government information, and have the healthcare system to take care of the now aging addicts. Also, the “Netherlands consistently features low prevalence of HIV among drug users, reads the Introduction to the OSF report, “cannabis use among young people on par with the European average and a citizenry that has generally been spared the burden of criminal records for low-level, non-violent drug offenses.”

<<

America, Take Note: Three Lessons the Netherlands Learned After Decades of Evolving Its Drug Policy | Drug Policy Alliance (http://www.drugpolicy.org/blog/america-take-note-three-lessons-holland-learned-after-decades-evolving-its-drug-policy)

[Tennisnut]

Just a quick search yielded pretty much as you thought:

>>
In light of a hard-drug epidemic in the 1970’s and ‘80’s, the Netherlands sought to keep young people away from heroin and cocaine. Clear distinctions between "soft" and “hard” drugs is how the Netherlands chose to do it. By separating drug markets, they effectively severed the “gateway” potential that many loosely claim pot confers. It seems prohibition, which lumps substances together and necessitates one buy from the black market, may be the gateway culprit rather than cannabis. Scientists from the American Journal of Psychiatry, British Journal of Addiction, and the Institute of Medicine, to name a few, echo these phenomena with scientific studies finding no causal link between cannabis and harder drugs. Should heroin be treated as the same as cannabis or psilocybin? Because of unfair and unscientific drug scheduling in the U.S., many are not able to think and talk intelligently about the drastic difference between these substances.

The Netherlands gained control of their hard drug problem in a couple decades and now boast one of the lowest rates of hard drug use in the European Union because of honest education and government information, and have the healthcare system to take care of the now aging addicts. Also, the “Netherlands consistently features low prevalence of HIV among drug users, reads the Introduction to the OSF report, “cannabis use among young people on par with the European average and a citizenry that has generally been spared the burden of criminal records for low-level, non-violent drug offenses.”

<<

America, Take Note: Three Lessons the Netherlands Learned After Decades of Evolving Its Drug Policy | Drug Policy Alliance (http://www.drugpolicy.org/blog/america-take-note-three-lessons-holland-learned-after-decades-evolving-its-drug-policy)

Thanks for taking the time and effort to provide a link to some hard study. I had read something to that fact some time in the past but did not have any details.

[B767drvr]

Thanks for taking the time and effort to provide a link to some hard study. I had read something to that fact some time in the past but did not have any details.

:wave::024:

[KeepingItReal]

You think restricting access to pot is a joke. I think it is better than unrestricted access.
Let's agree to disagree and leave it at that.

Let's Get Real, restricting access is a joke because it does not work....just as it has not worked for alcohol and tobacco it won't work for pot and will only make it even more available.

[PennBF]

Wow there is some real uneducated on this thread. First, I have spent a lot of time in Amsterdam and under their new laws non citizens cannot buy pot. If you ever walked through Rembrant park and saw the drug addict who also rely on pot you would have a different impression of drugs in "The Netherlands". How many have been to Amsterdam and witnessed the residents. Some of the youths hanging around where the train stations are would certaintly change your minds.
These are good illustrations of people talking about things they don't know anything about. In the 60' the kids dodging the draft in US went to Amsterdam and hung out around their famous statue. and they had mirrors and they flashed the mirrors into anyone with a camera who tried to take a photo of them. It was a great picture of what drugs, including pot looked like when it was not controlled. I was there and personally have seen what I am talking about. It is ok if you want drugs just don't mis state the facts to suit your wants.:cold:

[TCGirl]

I will go with the study rather than anecdotal statements.

[redwitch]

Penn, give it up. You keep saying you'll stop posting on this thread and then start again. No one denies that drug abuse is an evil thing. NO ONE!!!!

What you're not going to do is convince most of us that recreational marijuana use necessarily leads to drug abuse.

[Tennisnut]

Penn, give it up. You keep saying you'll stop posting on this thread and then start again. No one denies that drug abuse is an evil thing. NO ONE!!!!

What you're not going to do is convince most of us that recreational marijuana use necessarily leads to drug abuse.

Bravo. Sometimes I feel like I am a "Stranger in a Strange Land"

Loved that book many many years ago.

[mickey100]

Penn, give it up. You keep saying you'll stop posting on this thread and then start again. No one denies that drug abuse is an evil thing. NO ONE!!!!

What you're not going to do is convince most of us that recreational marijuana use necessarily leads to drug abuse.

Agreed.

[rubicon]

I thought each succeeding older generation was suppose to leave a better legacy for its young to aim higher for the betterment of mankind? Legalization of a drug that is more harmful than cigarettes, more intoxicating than alcohol and stinks to high heaven is not what I had in mind.

I believe this bill will pass in Florida because I believe that far too many people use and as such will be more motivated to vote. Its effect will be the same as removing speeding limits with no concern of violations speeders will only speed up.

So for those in favor of legalization vote in haste and repent in leisure.

Cést la vie

[janmcn]

I thought each succeeding older generation was suppose to leave a better legacy for its young to aim higher for the betterment of mankind? Legalization of a drug that is more harmful than cigarettes, more intoxicating than alcohol and stinks to high heaven is not what I had in mind.

I believe this bill will pass in Florida because I believe that far too many people use and as such will be more motivated to vote. Its effect will be the same as removing speeding limits with no concern of violations speeders will only speed up.

So for those in favor of legalization vote in haste and repent in leisure.

Cést la vie


To be clear, the ballot initiative we will vote on in November is to legalize the use of medical marijuana only. Only two states, WA and CO have voted to legalize recreational marijuana. If caught smoking marijuana in FL, you will be arrested. It is, and will remain, against the law.

[Chi-Town]

OK. We have probably covered this topic pretty thoroughly. Maybe it's time to start a new thread concerning another potential drug abuse problem in Florida..


44260

[CFrance]

OK. We have probably covered this topic pretty thoroughly. Maybe it's time to start a new thread concerning another potential drug abuse problem in Florida..


44260
Good one!:wave:

[Barefoot]

Wow there is some real uneducated on this thread.

As they say..you can't fix "stupid".

Penn, people who don't agree with your opinions aren't necessarily uneducated or stupid.
If you are trying to win people to your point of view, insulting them isn't a good way to do it.

[Chi-Town]

PBF, life is like a game of cards. Once you drop out, you're out. You can't get in until the next game. (Thanks Forrest Gump).

[redwitch]

Bravo. Sometimes I feel like I am a "Stranger in a Strange Land"

Loved that book many many years ago.

I still love that book. Re-read it about every five years or so. Heinlein was my intro to sci fi. Methusalah's Children also way up there.

Sadly, I think the older we get, the stranger our land becomes (regardless of where "our" land is). Societies change and it is rarely to the liking of past generations. We frequently get lost in today's world, especially when we consider all that has occurred in the past fifty years. We've seen men walk on the moon, heard a guitar played upside down, computers that fit into a room can now be carried in a pocket, television has become common place and being able to view over 100 channels is taken for granted and on and on and on. And,yes, the mores of society have changed as well.

We oldsters aren't supposed to like a lot of the changes, I think. Remember, at one time the waltz was considered risqué. Maybe it is society's way of having some checks and balances?

[redwitch]

Redwich, what is your problem.

At the present , I'd say my biggest problem is that I'm not edible. It is Redwitch. Really not that hard to read or spell. Honest.

[benj]

When someone makes an emphatic statement that they will not do something and then continue to do so, I think they have lost all credibility. The term wha wha wha comes to mind.

[TheVillageChicken]

To be clear, the ballot initiative we will vote on in November is to legalize the use of medical marijuana only. Only two states, WA and CO have voted to legalize recreational marijuana. If caught smoking marijuana in FL, you will be arrested. It is, and will remain, against the law.


Not necessarily. I have been to many music festivals where I have seen the deputies make someone dump their pot out on the ground. The deputies then smush the weed into the ground and send the menace to society on their merry way.

[Patty55]

OMG, this is still going on? I feel like it's deja vu all over again or as we called it in the early 70's "a re-occurrence".

[Patty55]

Not necessarily. I have been to many music festivals where I have seen the deputies make someone dump their pot out on the ground. The deputies then smush the weed into the ground and send the menace to society on their merry way.

Back in the day, in my country, they would "confiscate" it. We always figured they went off and smoked it.

[Tennisnut]

I still love that book. Re-read it about every five years or so. Heinlein was my intro to sci fi. Methusalah's Children also way up there.

Sadly, I think the older we get, the stranger our land becomes (regardless of where "our" land is). Societies change and it is rarely to the liking of past generations. We frequently get lost in today's world, especially when we consider all that has occurred in the past fifty years. We've seen men walk on the moon, heard a guitar played upside down, computers that fit into a room can now be carried in a pocket, television has become common place and being able to view over 100 channels is taken for granted and on and on and on. And,yes, the mores of society have changed as well.

We oldsters aren't supposed to like a lot of the changes, I think. Remember, at one time the waltz was considered risqué. Maybe it is society's way of having some checks and balances?

...

[Tennisnut]

I still love that book. Re-read it about every five years or so. Heinlein was my intro to sci fi. Methusalah's Children also way up there.

Sadly, I think the older we get, the stranger our land becomes (regardless of where "our" land is). Societies change and it is rarely to the liking of past generations. We frequently get lost in today's world, especially when we consider all that has occurred in the past fifty years. We've seen men walk on the moon, heard a guitar played upside down, computers that fit into a room can now be carried in a pocket, television has become common place and being able to view over 100 channels is taken for granted and on and on and on. And,yes, the mores of society have changed as well.

We oldsters aren't supposed to like a lot of the changes, I think. Remember, at one time the waltz was considered risqué. Maybe it is society's way of having some checks and balances?

Actually, I was talking about The Villages and how it appears that many have failed to accept change. Some of the comments on this post and others are so different from the attitudes that are prevalent in today's society. The recent series on CNN, "The Sixties" details some of events that affected our society and its attitude toward drugs, the women's movement, race relations, and music. The series is great walk through of a fantastic decade of change!