Community Corner

Patch Blogs: 'Inept Politicians'; Medical Pot

A recap of recent and popular blog posts in Westchester, Rockland and Putnam.

Though most folks in the Lower Hudson Valley can fill up their tank without waiting in a two-hour queue, or hollering at a nitwit angling to cut the line, the painful memory remains.

(And in New York City, gas rationing will likely continue until after Thanksgiving.)

But blogger Larry Elkin said Hurricane Sandy and fuel shortages weren't to blame for the winding lines—instead, he points the finger at inept politicians.

Find out what's happening in Port Chesterwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"Don't blame Sandy for your ongoing inconvenience; misguided politicians are doing most of the damage now," Elkin pens.

For more of his insight on gasoline scarcity, supply-and-demand and price gouging, click here.

Find out what's happening in Port Chesterwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

All eyes are on Colorado recently when it comes to marijuana, but one local Patch blogger and doctor is championing the drug's use for multiple sclerosis patients here at home.

Dr. Scott Gotlieb says medical marijuana can reduce pain without the troubling side-effects of opiates. Stil, the doc says pot isn't without consequences: "as helpful as marijuana can be... some side effects include impaired mental functioning, decreased inhibitions, fatigue, dry mouth, hunger, memory problems and increased anxiety/paranoia, [among others]," he writes. 

For readers with young kids, Karen Robert's essay "Travelling with Baby" is a must read. The local mom spells out the nuts and bolts of long trips with a youngster. Take note: shipping some items ahead of time can cut-back on headaches.

And for those sorely missing the rhetoric of election season (a slim minority, I'm sure of it), the contest for Rockland's county executive seat is already enrapturing some bloggers. Jack Moolick says the choice should be a no-brainer.

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If you're interested in blogging for Patch and sharing your story, insights, opinions or photos, email kevin@patch.com.


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