See Bob Newland's reply below . As a parent, addiction counselor, and alcohol and other drug prevention professional, I am gravely concerned about a recent cover story in Panache Magazine. It is alarming to me that they would make the decision to promote an event that is sponsored by National Organization to Reform Marijuana Laws. This is of course, incorrect. This is absolutely the wrong message to be giving our youth.
Studies show that as the perception of danger of a drug declines, use increases.
People think if it is medicine, it can't be harmful, which is happening in states that have passed similar legislation. Young people's use of marijuana is increasing. The misrepresentation of marijuana use is causing significant problems for our nation. Contrary to common belief, there have been thousands of scientific studies conducted by top researchers at reputable laboratories and universities around the world. The studies reveal significant physical and mental health risks with use of marijuana.