Not our rubble

December 30, 2009

Dear Sir,

This is an open letter to Warwick Walker.

It is only because my reputation means everything to me that I am responding to your comment made on today's letter to the Editor regarding rubble dumped on the trail in Warwick.

You seem to be very frustrated about a lot of things but please don't take it out on me. It is a good thing that you did not mention the contractor on site because the comment you made is incorrect. If you walked the tracks like you say you do, you would have noticed the rubble there long before I started my project. Once I receive permission, I am prepared to clear the area, at no cost to anyone. I, once again, reiterate that the dumped rubble is NOT of my doing.

Furthermore, since starting the project two weeks ago, my men and I do notice that when a good morning greeting is extended to the walkers, no acknowledgement is made. We live in Bermuda and we are not part of the dumped rubble. I invite you to call me to clear up any further frustrations that you may have. My cell no. is 535-5939.

I am also very conscience of our community conditions, not only in Warwick but also in other areas of the Island. This letter was written in 2009 and I truly hope that 2010 is a much happier one for you.

JOHN CARREIRO

Manager

Sea Link Construction Ltd.

Thank you, shoppers

December 27, 2009

Dear Sir,

Once again the Altrusa Club of Bermuda appreciates your allowing us space in your column. On behalf of our members I would like to take this opportunity to once again thank the public for their generosity in supporting our Christmas Bake and Craft Sale. This fund raiser was held on Saturday, December 12 at Lindo's Market in Devonshire and through the purchase of our baked goods and plants the funds raised are contributing towards our present library literacy project at Heron Bay Primary School.

Altrusa Club of Bermuda would also like to express our thanks to Mr. Georgio Zanol for his generosity in assisting us by allowing us space each year in which to hold this fund raiser. We would also like to thank Ms. Claudette who ensures that we are able to hold our Christmas Bake and Craft Sale on the required date.

Finally, thank you once again to all Lindo's shoppers on December 12 who purchased baked goods, plants or made a donation to advance literacy in the community. The spirit of giving shown during this holiday season will allow us to add more books, increase literacy and make a difference one child at a time.

MARGUERITE I. LOVELL President

Altrusa International Inc. of Bermuda

Ecstasy is not addictive

December 23, 2009

Dear Sir,

A quick comment on Bermuda's drug policy. In relation to the two articles on drug offences, why did one receive a substantial fine for marijuana (a very safe plant) and rolling papers, whereas the other offence relating to possession of a crack pipe and what should have been crack cocaine received a light fine? Are Bermuda's drug policies telling us to use harder drugs as the penalties are less harsh? Reading every week in this newspaper about Bermudians of all ages being fined or sentenced for simple possession of cannabis is getting very very tiring. Why doesn't the government wake up and realise that people do use weed, and the risks behind its use are far less than those associated with tobacco or alcohol.

Months ago, on an article featuring a debate on marijuana the interviewee claimed that Bermuda's weed is now being contaminated with MDMA (Ecstasy) and it's very dangerous and addictive. First of all, this is highly doubtful and probably false information. Here in the UK, the weed is sometimes contaminated not with MDMA, but silicon derivatives, even more dangerous. Secondly, having done MDMA I can truly tell you that it isn't addictive. And in the words of Professor David Nutt, who was recently fired by Home Secretary Alan Johnson for speaking the truth on the risks of drugs, 'taking MDMA is less dangerous than riding a horse'.

Now really, Bermuda does need to take a step forward and stop wasting time and resources with cannabis, it seems they should be considered with all the killings and gang violence. Perhaps decriminalising marijuana in Bermuda would lessen a lot of the tension between these gangs. Besides, a lazy (stoned) gangster is better than an active gangster!

BERMUDIAN FOR SENSIBLE DRUG POLICIES

City of Hamilton