Columnist clarifies pot position
Sir: As Canadians, freedom of the press is something we all enjoy, and healthy debate is good.
With regard to the three letters to the editor on Feb. 25 responding to my column, I would like to state that just because I did not mention nicotine and alcohol, in no way was I downplaying the serious consequences of using those drugs. I chose to stick to the subject at hand, the government’s plan to legalize marijuana.
Regular pot smokers will continue to sing the praises of cannabis and be in denial about its impacts, no matter what is said by the medical profession or an average citizen like myself.
Medicinal marijuana, properly and legally dispensed by a doctor to patients in need, is a far cry from making it available to anyone and everyone. If this drug gives them relief, so be it.
Just because teens already have access to marijuana does not justify making it easier to obtain. (Some say it would be harder to obtain, but we may find out very soon). But this argument could go on ‘till the cows come home.’
One writer mentioned Cheech and Chong and how well they are doing. Well, Tommy Chong was a dancer on Dancing with the Stars in the fall of 2014. He stepped out of a VW bus filled with smoke … I do believe he, along with his partner, could have won the competition had he not been under the influence!
Nadine Wark
Sarnia
City Hall took action on park complaint
Sir: You published a letter of mine on Jan. 14 discussing the sad state of the trails at Canatara Park.
I am very pleased to report that one of my friends forwarded the email to the Mayor, who followed up with the council and the Director of Parks and Recreation. I recently received an extremely comprehensive reply from the City Manager explaining the plans.
In fact, I was able to see it for myself as last week. There were piles of fresh fine mulch deposited and spread down the west side trail of Tarzanland.
I grew up in a small town and moved to Sarnia 11 years ago after spending much of my adult life in Montreal and Toronto. I must say that concerns such as mine would not have seen the light of day in a large city, and I am grateful to be living in a place where I can be a contributing member of the community.
Thanks.
Lynda Jenkins
Sarnia
Sarnia needs teen-friendly summer camps
Sir: As an adolescent, I look forward to summer break.
Two and a half months of vacation are a great break from the daily routine of school. However, throughout those months it can be troublesome finding a way to spend vacation time.
To solve this commonplace dilemma for teens, I have an idea. I believe the city should offer more teen-friendly camps and programs to get youth involved and active, entertained, and out of trouble.
Summer camps for older children provide a solution to summer boredom, and prevents the age-old complaint -“I’m bored!”
Many parents struggle to find activities that are not only age-appropriate, but also safe and engaging. City-run camps and programs provide supervision and activities enjoyable for a vast array of personalities.
The City of Sarnia already has a wide range of programs for younger children, but not enough for older kids.
According to The Globe and Mail, only 12% of Canadian kids get enough exercise per day. Summer camps could get youth active and involved in the community.
Day camps and other programs for older kids would ensure they get enough brain stimulation between the months of schooling, while they’re having fun!
Summer day camps and programs would prevent students from getting into trouble, and distract them from the temptation of alcohol, or drugs. When teens are bored, they might feel tempted to commit minor crimes to pass time for ‘fun.’
In conclusion, if the city offered more teen-friendly camps, it would be a beneficial to local youth, providing supervised entertainment, activities and opportunities to learn and be active.
It’s a win-win for everyone!
Lucia Schultz-Allison
Grade 7, King George VI Public School
Sarnia
