December 6, 2001

Kitchener Waterloo Record

by Bill Bendix

Waterloo Region, despite its size and close proximity to Toronto, has a unique identity and a strong reputation throughout Canada.

It is known for being liberal and progressive because of its two universities, both of which are world respected.  It is known for being fun-loving because of the Oktoberfest celebrations.

And it is known for being charitable because of the longtime Mennonite influence.

Sadly, this reputation is being marred by Kitchener council's resolution to crack down on pot-growers.  A five-year prison sentence for these offenders seems excessively harsh.

It deviates from the nation's growing acceptance of marijuana, which can now be used legally for medical reasons, and sounds very much like a penalty American lawmakers would propose.

These prison sentences are neither liberal nor progressive, nor are they forgiving and charitable.

Bill Bendix

Toronto