cannabisnews.com: Douglas: No Politics in Pot Contradiction










  Douglas: No Politics in Pot Contradiction

Posted by CN Staff on December 09, 2007 at 06:04:56 PT
By Daniel Barlow, Vermont Press Bureau 
Source: Rutland Herald  

Montpelier, VT -- Gov. James Douglas said Friday he does not see a contradiction in his handling of two major marijuana busts — one of which he criticized for alleged leniency and the other that he didn't.This fall, when Windsor County State's Attorney Robert Sand, a Democrat, approved court diversion for a Windsor lawyer arrested with more than two pounds of pot and 32 growing plants, Douglas, a Republican, ordered state law enforcement to send all future marijuana cases from that county to state prosecutors.
But Douglas is poised to take no action after a Randolph man was given court diversion after police found him with 110 marijuana plants. That court decision was made by Orange County State's Attorney William Porter, a Republican.Speaking on Vermont Public Radio Friday morning, Douglas said he directed marijuana cases in Windsor County to bypass Sand's office because of the prosecutor's alleged "blanket policy" to send first-time possession cases to diversion.He added there are other differences between the two criminal cases, but when asked said he did not know the details of the Orange County case, in which three times as many marijuana plants were seized."We have a prosecutor who has had a blanket policy of deferring first-time marijuana offenses regardless of amount," Douglas said on the radio show.In the Windsor County case, part-time family court judge Martha Davis, 61, was charged in early October after police found 2-1/2 pounds of marijuana and 32 pot plants at her home. The following month, Davis was allowed to enter the court diversion program to resolve that complaint.Meanwhile, 45-year-old North Johnson of Randolph was arrested in late August after police found 110 plants and drug paraphernalia at his home. That case, which was prosecuted in Orange County, was also sent to court diversion.Earlier this week, Douglas spokesman Jason Gibbs said comparing the two marijuana cases was like comparing "apples and oranges." But Gibbs did not return several calls for further comment Friday.Sand, when reached at his office in White River Junction Friday morning, scoffed at the idea the two cases were so different."My wife's response to that was that this is not apples to oranges, this is marijuana to marijuana," he said.Sand, who advocates the decriminalization of marijuana and a review of state drug laws, strongly denied Douglas' assertion that he has a "blanket policy" regarding marijuana cases.But as a "practical matter, there is a trend in the state to use the diversion program — a confidential court process under which criminal charges are dropped and the defendant may be ordered to undergo treatment or community service — for some drug cases," Sand explained.When asked if he thinks Douglas is being hypocritical in his attitudes with the two cases, Sand said the governor's actions add confusion to the drug debate."I think I share some of the confusion Vermonters are feeling right now about marijuana cases," he said, after a short pause. "It is confusing that in one case diversion is apparently unacceptable, but in another case — which features more marijuana — diversion is acceptable."The controversy highlights an apparent contradiction in Douglas' stance, which is highlighted by his quotes to the Vermont media when news of Sand's sentence broke in early November.He told the Rutland Herald then that Sand's decision is a "bad message to send to our kids." Vermont Public Radio at the time paraphrased him as saying that Sand abused his discretion because of the quantity of marijuana involved."We can't have a situation in Vermont where in 13 other of our counties, possession is treated as the felony it is, and possibly result in jail time, and in another county someone gets a 'get out of jail free' card," he told the Herald at the time.Sen. John Campbell, a Democrat from Windsor County, where Sand works, said Douglas' different views on two similar marijuana cases "smells of politics.""This is patently offensive in light of the facts of these two cases," said Campbell, who is a possible Democratic candidate for governor next year. "The governor is really insulting the intelligence of Vermonters with this."On the radio program Friday, Douglas denied the political parties of the prosecutors played a part in his decision."There is no political motivation," he said. "My motivation is public safety."On Friday, Sand again stated the need for a statewide discussion on drug policy. He said it could be modeled after Sen. Richard Sears' recent roundtable discussions on domestic abuse, which led to the consideration of new legislation."All the parties involved need to get together to have a serious drug policy discussion," Sand said.A drug policy discussion will be on the agenda for the new legislation session, Campbell said."The legislature will be looking at the policies and penalties of drug possession next year," he said.The Associated Press contributed to this report. Source: Rutland Herald (VT)Author: Daniel Barlow, Vermont Press Bureau Published: December 8, 2007 Copyright: 2007 Rutland HeraldContact: letters rutlandherald.comWebsite: http://www.rutlandherald.com Related Articles: Sand Deflects Douglas' Criticism Over MJ Stancehttp://cannabisnews.com/news/thread22653.shtmlProsecutor Says Drug War Isn't Workinghttp://cannabisnews.com/news/thread22638.shtmlTime Has Come To Reform our Drug Policieshttp://cannabisnews.com/news/thread22494.shtml 

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Comment #85 posted by museman on December 14, 2007 at 11:16:22 PT
Had Enough
Nearly 30 years ago, I spoke to a circle of (then) young 'rainbow hippies' about how I believed that we were a spiritually empowered generation that could change the world for the better. I used Judeo-Christian terms. These weren't only my generational peers, but the only group of people I could find whose conversations rose above sex, cars, football, and materialisms. It was because of this that I decided to voice my visions.I wasn't exactly laughed at, snickered at is more the proper term. There was no mockery, only flat out rejection. When I began to point out the situation as it was stacking up to become what it now is, I was told that I was a 'negative' thinker.Now the conversations that were rejected by my generation, have been taken up noticeably, with enthusiasm by this generation coming of age right now. The topics of earth-going-wild-and-crazy are actually starting to show up in mainstream media.It almost seems like it has become socially correct to be concerned about things that very few wished to look at 30 years ago. Unfortunately sitting around and discussing the now obvious state of decay of our world, is a conversation that should have been collectively finished 30 years ago. By now we should be communicating clearly with each other telepathically, having spent the last 30 years concentrating on training our natural intuitive faculties. We should have been recieving information (only available through inuitive channels) to help us repair our reality, and well into alternatives for electrical power getting rid of all the polluting parts of that technology, - and alternative fuels, and more efficient combustion engines (available since the 50's).Well for some things it's just too late. There's just too many people who share way too much collective ignorance, and the changes are beginning to happen way too fast for most to get a grip on. Unfortunately that 'crash and burn' scenario is the door #2 that we collectively, and ignorantly chose, because not enough people are willing to sacrifice their polluting and destructive devices for the sake of the future. 30 years ago it was about turning the tide, changing directions, now it's about dodging bullets and trying to save whatever we can before the last straw of earth-action collapses the man-made house of cards forever.The good news is that there is a great degree of safety within the parameters of correct faith and belief, and the irony of the situation is that most of the future survivors are already where they are supposed to be. The knowlege we need to prevent humanity from being cast back to primitivism, and brute 'survival of the fittest' is already dispersed in the populations of the world, waiting to be called forth to become part of the new world that will be born from the ashes of this one.There is no geographical sanctuary, no place where you can go to "..call upon the rocks to hide from the wrath of YHWH." The only sanctuary lies in the same place as the only real church or temple of 'God' - within. If one cannot find that sanctuary, good luck, because luck is the only ally without the YHWH-YSHWH connection.There are clues all around us, in art, music, drama. The new concepts that we have to wrap our dark-age mentalities around are out there, available, and awaiting our attention and receptivity. The things that I have seen reflected in some of the TV shows and movies over the last few years are obviously (to me) aimed at elevating the entire collective consciousness to recieve new ideas and possibilities.Two of the new TV shows out there, Heroes, and The 4400, are, in my mind, dramatic, and somewhat exaggerated renditions of some subtle but powerful changes in the human psyche that are going to stand us in good stead when the final infrastructure of our BS society collapses into chaos and rubble. There is a real evolution going on just below the radar."There is a storm coming." That phrase has been used a lot in the past 5 years or so in various ficticious dramas depicting parallel situations comparable to the ones we find ourselves in. Well, that storm has winds that can diffuse your soul, and the only survival is within the embrace of real and actual Love. Love, and the faith and belief in it, is the only thing we have that can save us. But it's not something you can store up and wait to bring out at the last moment, it has to be active as of yesterday, and foremost in our minds in the now.When that storm begins to blow, and everyone will know it, there will be nothing anyone can do but grab their beloved and don't let go!And Love cannot co-exist with selfishness, greed, and the Amerikan Dream. Love has no place in a heart that compromises it for the sake of power, or material gain. Love and 90% of our 'accepted partameters of reality' do not vibrate at compatible frequencies. Love is the answer. Always was, and always will be. But way too many are comfortable in their belief that their public lip-service is enough, and that they will be saved simply by speaking certain words, without practicing love in all things. Church attendance is not only inadequate, but wasted vanity, without the same claimed attitude reflected and acted upon daily -which only occurs on some few individual levels -the 'congregation' is just another aspect of the duped mob empowering demons.I have no doubt in the final outcome, I have seen it. For me, it is all about gleaning the few remnant consciousnesses from spiritual and real Babylon, as many as possible in the time that is left. The idea of 'world conversion' is naive and ludicrous. Does everyone have that choice? Yes of course, but unfortunately the beast of false materialism has pretty much convinced the collective conscious mind that fear is the greater power, and people make their choices accordingly.Wake up America, come out of Babylon, leave Rome in it's decay and consumption, and see what has awaited us since Adam first walked on the earth, it's right there, here and now, and all you have to do is get rid of all that BS in your hearts and minds so the real stuff can get in and do the wondrous.And yes, cannabis is major player in assisting us, and preparing us for what is coming, and for some, already upon us. That in my understanding is the real reason behind prohibition - to keep us from discovering our true nature, and thus the true reality. Because once we have discovered the truly dynamic real, we "have a place to stand from which to move the world."
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Comment #84 posted by Had Enough on December 14, 2007 at 09:56:05 PT
Jimi, Jimi, Jimi
Jimi Hendrix Monterey Wind Cries Maryhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-iNcH7wr99YOk, I’ll stop for now. Just got overwhelmed with good tunes to share. Helps to keep the good vibes goin.
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Comment #83 posted by Had Enough on December 14, 2007 at 09:39:24 PT
Procol Harum
Procol HarumWhiter Shade of Palehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wc0imHr5MxcProcol Harum - A whiter shade of pale 1967http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbWULu5_nXILyricshttp://www.procolharum.com/w/w9901.htm
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Comment #82 posted by Had Enough on December 14, 2007 at 09:26:51 PT
More Jimi
Jimi Hendrix At Woodstock 69http://www.noolmusic.com/blogs/YouTube_Music_Videos_60s_70s_-_Jimi_Hendrix_At_Woodstock_69.shtmlmore Jimi here too… take your pick – but hear the message…http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=jimi+hendrix+youtube
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Comment #81 posted by Had Enough on December 14, 2007 at 09:12:43 PT
If 6 was 9, maybe Five???
SixBut you get the idea.runruff. Check this stuff out.http://www.zeitgeistmovie.com/and…The-Clinton-Chronicles - No longer available on Google Videohttp://digtheheavy.vodpod.com/video/325358-the-clinton-chronicles************If 6 were 9 – Jimi Hendrixhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DOjXPzEjEWY
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Comment #80 posted by Had Enough on December 14, 2007 at 06:05:14 PT
Museman
I hear and feel every word you are saying. But that is just me. Many more need to understand these words.In this day of warmongering for global control, manufacturer driven consumerism, and plain old “I got mine what do I care about you” mentality, as much as I would like a controlled Return to the Garden, I think it will take a Crash & Burn course to get ourselves back to where we once belonged.It’s not easy sitting on this brink watching as all goes by, everybody paying attention to the distractions while civilization is being mauled into whatever a few want their agenda to be, at our expense.Vengeance is mine says the Lord (excuse me museman, for using the word Lord). What a verse, five words with so much meaning, power, and faith. Now how many understand this, and better yet how many actually follow that powerful phrase??? I see few. I have not thrown that rock through the windshields of the escalades either, but have been very tempted as many others have. I will not do it. The windshields shall shatter themselves, as we watch helplessly while mankind destroys itself.We’ve got to get ourselves “Back to the Garden” and soon.
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Comment #79 posted by FoM on December 13, 2007 at 13:09:21 PT
museman
What I hope is that we see more and more young people standing up for what is right. They are our future. We need them and they need us too.
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Comment #78 posted by museman on December 13, 2007 at 12:42:46 PT
FoM
Once, many years ago, I realized what was meant by that phrase "Vengeance is mine says YWHW." Only YHWH is big enough to swallow that pill. Otherwise it (vengeance) will swallow you! So all this "American vengeance" against 'terrorists,' and anything else they can blame for their own inequity is totally in error, and deserves no support from truly spiritual people. There is no such thing as a 'God sanctioned' war. Anyone pointing out old testament contradiction, better get in there and separate the truth from the dross, the human from the divine, and then move on. When YHWH stated "You should not kill." as an absolute, I believe that the 'God' of Love had no intention of demonstrating hypocrisy by then commanding that the israelites slaughter whole nations and peoples. People better take a better look at the info, and realize that many, many, lies, misconceptions, and deliberate confusons have been placed in our education, records, and history. And the most damning of all -literally- are the deliberate confusions of the so-called 'christian' church, and their misguided worship of dead things, like the Bible. I hear evangelists, and preachers going on and on all the time about "The Living Word" yet none of them are sighted enough to realize the simple logic of the statement. The "Word" of YHWH either lives in us, because we are living it, and expressing it in new and better ways, or else it is merely an antiquated collection of wisdom lost in the dust of ages, and made with dead trees. One living tree has more to offer one seeking the truth, than any bible ever had to offer.This is one of the hard things that we are collectively facing; the weening of man from the crutches of fear and spiritual laziness. Experience does not come from reading, and ritual, but from living. Knowlege does come from reading, but without the experience to validate, and make it real, it's all just personal entertainment. I'm all for entertainment as long as it's aknowleged as such and not pushed off as some kind of truth to be shoved down mine or anyone elses throat. There's a lot of mess to clean up that's for sure.
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Comment #77 posted by FoM on December 13, 2007 at 11:33:50 PT
museman
I understand what you are saying. I am not vindictive at all because of this Scripture. Vengeance is Mine... I also have been reminded in my mind about Casting Pearls ...The last one that helps me is Judge not....
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Comment #76 posted by museman on December 13, 2007 at 11:12:04 PT
FoM
"These are hard times for everyone." I know what you mean, but I must point out that there are those who are reaping the profits of their destruction right now, and everyone else is literally paying for it. Times need not be so hard but for the choices of damn few in comparison to the many who have little to no choice whatsoever."I lamented because I had no shoes, until I met a man who had no feet. Then I saw the SUVs, the Cadillacs, and the endless stream of smog-belching diesels destroying the ground that everyone must walk on, and I got angry."I admit that the choices that aid in destruction aren't all that choosable, survival often dictates what causes one serves, but even in forced labor and compliance to false moralities, and false authority, one still has choice and opportunity to influence and change, and only fear stops them. If half the folks that say they have "Trust, and Faith in God" actually did, we wouldn't be about this prohibition, and "wars" against this and that, and we certainly wouldn't believe in some kind of twisted values represented by 'tokens and symbols' of worth, like worshipping graven images. The emporer has about 95% of America convinced, and about 75% of Europe and the rest of the world, that materialism, and it's attending weights and measures is reality, and God. The glass is full to the brim with spoiled and wasted time and shallow pointless thought processes, so there is not much room for anything new. (no new wine in those old skins)Fortunately, there is a small but growing number of people that have emptied their 'glass' and then get very choosy about what they put into it from that point on. We hope that somehow by osmosis, or 'the hundredth monkey' process that the rest will come around to see and embrace the truth. I have always been the impatient one, and of course have seen my expectations shattered in the reality of humanity's stubborn denial of the real and natural way of Creation, but literally standing one step away from paradise almost all my life, knowing that all it is going to take is a small tweak in consciousness on a global scale, is sometimes a hard knowlege to bear. I have had to learn, and am still learning the art of balance. I have had my passion for the truth mislabeled as 'anger,' my unflinching resolve as 'arrogance,' my desire to take initiative as 'manipulative,' and my constant and consistent view of Spirit as 'prideful.' These by my own 'peers.'The most powerful and positive truth is that there is now established on the earth, in a substantial number of hearts and minds (albeit just a drop in the global population bucket) a new level of consciousness and collective awareness. Though it is now embryonic, despite all attempts by the powers that be to stifle, thwart, and stop this phenomenon, they have been absolutely unsuccessful. This fact, though unseen by most, and completely invisible to adversarial beings both human and otherwise, is one of the prime foundation stones of the New Paradigm.Though there is a part of me, diminishing daily, that would 'like' a little vengeance mixed in with my justice, I have come to recognize the hazards of focussing too much on the problems, and not enough on the solutions. Unfortunatley it has also been revealed that as long as the majority are in denial of the problems, the solutions cannot be delivered. can't fill a glass that's already full. This where the balance comes in. It may seem that my scale is dipped consistently on the negative, but that is relative to the negative events, personages, and thought processes that are presented to me -from many directions. If I cannot get through the indoctrination of the facts about how we got in this mess in the first place, it is not possible to even get to the solution part. If one believes the emporer is wearing anything at all, there is not much hope in convincing them of the truth. That glass has got to be emptied and cleansed. If we can't do it by choice and deliberation, YHWH and Nature will see to it that we have no other choices.Is there anyone out there that thinks that any politician can stop nature? Nature is rising up against the parasitical aspects of human error in it's relation to nature, and no amount of political debate, committees, or money thrown at the problem is going to amount to anything but more waste. Better to stop now, disavow the technologies of destruction, and the philosophies of war, stop delegating responsibility to irresponsible pretenders who have 'authority' based on complete and utter falsehood, and start taking it on ourselves. Stop the compromises with the rulers, end their rule by ruling ourselves.Hard times can lead to clearer views of reality. Pain is a great teacher. Making the lessons stick is the trick.
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Comment #75 posted by FoM on December 12, 2007 at 10:01:19 PT
museman
I wanted to mention that we don't make near as much money as we did when Stick had a good job with benefits back in the 70s. He made about $15 an hour and then they sent the work to Mexico. The fuel now for a short trip to Chicago is costing us $650 round trip. Way more money then he makes on the load. These are hard times for everyone.
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Comment #74 posted by museman on December 12, 2007 at 09:26:56 PT
runruff
Yeah, so's my income. So I don't own one, even from goodwill. Imagine going through life without a suit and tie! Almost as bad as not having a watch since, well the 70's. I know that herb is now worth slightly less than gold. Just think of all the suits I coulda had if I weren't such a head. Now there's another feather in a prohibitions cap; some people who smoke cannabis refuse to buy and/or wear suits and ties,..-as good a reason as any of the others for having it illegal.
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Comment #73 posted by runruff on December 11, 2007 at 17:23:11 PT:
Museman
Cha! Those $1,000 suits are now $3,000 to $5,000. Really, sometimes you are so 70s.
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Comment #72 posted by FoM on December 11, 2007 at 11:24:41 PT
Since This is About Hard Drugs
I thought I should post it here.As Iowa Nears, Clinton Allies Quietly Raise Obama's Cocaine UseDecember 11, 2007 URL: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2007/12/11/as-iowa-nears-clinton-al_n_76235.html
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Comment #71 posted by museman on December 11, 2007 at 10:49:10 PT
runruff
;-)You and I are in agreement. I am beyond belief on some of these facts, I was convinced sometime around the Waco debacle. Which is one of the reasons the idea of Hillary getting 'elected' makes me nauseous. I can see a linear progression of events and personages, a history of these kind of criminal acts against those who would be real, that goes way back to the beginnings of recorded history. Of course most of that information is only available in mythological format. As a student of history I find it important to realize that there are systems and schemes woven into our very concepts of reality itself which upon examination reveal much about the methods, motives, and identity of current demonic rule.The idea that the crimes committed against our own generation have somehow diminished over time and/or with the changing faces in seats of power is a deliberate skewing of perspective, and a selective memory of sanctioned history. We can at least see how the Nixon-Reagan-Bush-Clinton-Bush progression is linked. If you go back farther you can see more of the links, like Prescott Bush's involvement with the Nazis.One of the things I cannot stress enough, is that the very spirit that created, and upholds prohibition, also creates the intrigues of mistrust between peoples and nations. These same monsters who smile in their $1,000 dollar suits and make false promises after false promises, are also responsible for the orchestration of war - at least one for every generation - (the Romans learned that hardened veterans made excellent centurians.) These same pretenders to humanity sanction and foster division amongst the populace. The list of dirty deeds is long. I believe in the concept of treating the cause of the disease rather than the symptom, and what is easily seen on the surface of all this criminal activity by rulers and their attending economic/social class are only symptoms. But people have been duped. Nixon was a fool, but then any human being who trades their soul for power is a fool. Those who really know what they are doing are snakes. Those snakes really love fools like Nixon, and Bush jr., because it is easy to throw them to the mob and make the mob think they have gotten justice. Just like we all thought we'd actually accomplished something when Nixon was 'forced' to resign. Just like we thought about Willie when he joked about not inhaling. Just like they are getting ready to make us think we got a handle on Bush, and that after the election we can breathe easier. If anyone believes that I know of some prime real estate on the moon that I'd love to sell.runruff, have you seen zeitgeist? If not you should. I know you will get something out of it.
zeitgeist
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Comment #70 posted by FoM on December 11, 2007 at 06:40:06 PT
afterburner 
What a nice comment to start the day! Happy Holidays to you too.
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Comment #69 posted by afterburner on December 10, 2007 at 23:55:30 PT
Free the Oppressed, It's Christmas Time
Luke 4:18
"The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed,"Anoint yourself with cannabis. Respect for the medicine. Freedom is a blessing of the real Lord. Happy birthday, Lord. Thank you. Love to you to me to you.
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Comment #68 posted by FoM on December 10, 2007 at 21:35:54 PT
BGreen 
I think I'll pass. I don't need the friction. My mental health is important to me. When I get upset my husband has to be the one to hear about it and that isn't fair to him. Remember people can go away for a few days and get over being upset but I have to look at this site everyday. I can't walk away.Good night! I'm beat.
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Comment #67 posted by BGreen on December 10, 2007 at 21:28:50 PT
I think you should post from all of those sites
If we agree we'll post in support, if we disagree we'll rip the article to shreds.If we can handle articles featuring joyce and calvina, I think we can handle just about anything you throw at us. :)The Reverend Bud Green
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Comment #66 posted by FoM on December 10, 2007 at 21:24:42 PT
Taylor121 
OK I won't worry about it. My poor brain works overtime trying to be fair. I'm tired and calling it a day.
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Comment #65 posted by Taylor121 on December 10, 2007 at 20:57:26 PT
Don't worry about it
I just thought there was a double standard, but it's quite trivial. Just do what you think is best. I know what you do is a lot of work and I respect you for it FoM. Sorry for giving you a hard time.
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Comment #64 posted by Taylor121 on December 10, 2007 at 20:50:20 PT
Misunderstanding
I think you are misunderstanding the word libertarian. Libertarian does not equal libertarian party. It is simply a political ideology like liberal or conservative. Just because reason has a libertarian tilt does not make it any different from alternet having a left-liberal-progressive tilt. The Reason Foundation is not the Libertarian Party.
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Comment #63 posted by FoM on December 10, 2007 at 20:20:39 PT
fight_4_freedom
Thank you. I have it posted now. I have that link bookmarked for my husband. He was in Vietnam for 2 years.http://cannabisnews.com/news/thread23543.shtml
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Comment #62 posted by fight_4_freedom on December 10, 2007 at 20:05:23 PT:

Serving our veterans, ditching the ideology
Monday, December 10, 2007BY JOHN EPHLANDEveryone knows war results in the death and destruction of human life. Any veteran can tell you it's not like in the movies. And for those injured vets who live to tell about it, any and all effective, appropriate means for medical care are welcome.The only problem is, certain proven procedures have been ``off the table'' for non-medical reasons. One of America's leading organizations promoting innovative approaches to such care is Veterans for Medical Marijuana Access. Incorporated in 2007, VMMA can claim sole ownership to the title of being this country's only advocate for veterans' rights to access medical marijuana for therapeutic purposes.Thus far, VMMA has been busy in a number of areas. As Executive Director Martin Chilcutt points out, ``The VMMA is serious about minimizing whatever potential harm comes from using marijuana. I've talked to a good number of vets from around the country at conventions, on the phone and at veterans hospitals, and they tell me there's a real concern about conviction and going to jail. That's why we take this issue so seriously.''Because of this concern, VMMA works with all legislative bodies, both locally and nationally, to endorse the responsible, therapeutic use of medical marijuana. Implied in this effort is the legislative push to end all prohibitions associated with the use of medical marijuana.Chilcutt, who is a veteran and has a service-connected disability, adds that another primary focus of the organization is helping to preserve the long-established, doctor-patient relationship. ``Privacy rights are a big issue when it comes to medical marijuana,'' says Chilcutt, a licensed psychotherapist. ``Vets need to know it's safe to openly discuss this topic within the Veterans Administration health-care system.''A related concern for VMMA, according to Chilcutt, is a present-day political reality about making medical marijuana available to veterans. He notes, ``The current administration in Washington is blocking medical research on medical marijuana. There are many research centers that want to do it, but the Drug Enforcement Administration will not let them. It's political garbage, because a lot of research has been done in other countries showing how much it helps various conditions.''Showing his passion for the cause, Chilcutt lambasts what he sees as political cowardice on the part of government leaders. And all at the expense of those injured men and woman who have been willing to pay the ultimate price for their country. ``The Bush/Cheney administration is betraying us,'' he concludes. ``The veterans they say they support, many of them need and use medical marijuana. The lack of action from the top speaks louder than their words of support for the troops.''For more information on VMMA, go to www.veteransformedicalmarijuana.orgJohn Ephland, a friend of Martin Chilcutt, has no affiliation with VMMA. Both are residents of the Kalamazoo area.
mlive
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Comment #61 posted by FoM on December 10, 2007 at 20:04:39 PT

Taylor121
I don't think I ever posted an article from a Democratic or Republican monthly magazine if they have one. Politics are slanted towards an ideology. We can have different political beliefs so I like to not use political news sites that push one way which can cause friction.
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Comment #60 posted by Sam Adams on December 10, 2007 at 19:59:36 PT

Big SC decision just came down
I hope this link works:
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/11/washington/11scotus.html?_r=1&hp&oref=sloginJustices Restore Judges’ Control Over SentencingE-Mail
Print
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ShareBy LINDA GREENHOUSE
Published: December 11, 2007
WASHINGTON, Dec. 10 — The Supreme Court on Monday restored federal judges to their traditional central role in criminal sentencing.Related
News Analysis: Given the Latitude to Show Leniency, Judges May Not (December 11, 2007)Justices Take Up Discretion of the Courts in Sentencing (October 3, 2007)Court to Weigh Disparities in Cocaine Laws (June 12, 2007)Opinion: Kimbrough v. United States (supremecourtus.gov)Times Topics: Supreme CourtIn two decisions, the court said federal district judges had broad discretion to impose what they think are reasonable sentences, even if federal guidelines call for different sentences.One decision was particularly emphatic in saying judges are free to disagree with guidelines that call for much longer sentences for offenses involving crack cocaine than for crimes involving an equivalent amount of cocaine in powdered form.Both cases, each decided by the same 7-to-2 alignment, chided federal appeals courts for failing to give district judges sufficient leeway. The appeals court had in each case overturned a sentence that was lower than that provided by the guidelines. The two dissenters were Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel A. Alito Jr.
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Comment #59 posted by FoM on December 10, 2007 at 19:41:47 PT

Taylor121
This is from the link I posted. Reason is a libertarian monthly magazine from the Reason Foundation.
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Comment #58 posted by Taylor121 on December 10, 2007 at 19:27:50 PT

FoM
I'm not saying to stop posting alternet articles. I was just wondering why alternet and not reason magazine. Reason magazine is libertarian ideologically, but they are not associated with the libertarian party.I think if it's about marijuana either one should be posted, but it's up to you.I like alternet a lot. Please don't stop posting their articles. Like you said, a lot of the time NORML and MPP writes op eds there.
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Comment #57 posted by runruff on December 10, 2007 at 18:49:01 PT:

Museman
I was just trying to be funny with my Will Rogers quote. Actually I do know that Nixon was just a puppet. I happen also to dispise the man for who he was as well as those shodowy pupptiers whom he represented. I think Reagan was run and elected based on his puplic image. He was a dupe and he was duped. When elected the poor fool actually thought he was in charge. It wasn't untill he was shot that he realized that he wasn't. G. Bush Sr. belonged to the same insider club as Nixon. I believe
reagan was used as a vehicle to get the Elder Bush into office because Elder Bush was unelectable at that time. What W.s Daddy did there is now history. That was the plan. I believe Slick Willie was hand picked to continue were Elder Bush left off. NAFTA/GAT, The WOD, and much more. The rest of his mechinations were superficial and political in nature. But hey, I know you know my since of humor by now as well as anyone. So smile!
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Comment #56 posted by FoM on December 10, 2007 at 18:47:11 PT

Taylor121
I don't know much about AlterNet since I only look at the Drug Reporter. I don't think I have spent more then a few minutes ever reading AlterNet because I don't read much but Google News. I find articles on Google about topics I am interested in. I like being able to look for something and find many newspapers about what I am looking for. That way I check out different papers and I can put together in my mind what I think about the topic I am researching.
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Comment #55 posted by museman on December 10, 2007 at 17:54:27 PT

runruff
No need to raid the graveyard, or raise any ghosts, just curious about the numerous references to Nixon. "Live and learn." -anonymous
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Comment #54 posted by FoM on December 10, 2007 at 17:08:23 PT

Taylor121
I went and got the drug reporter link from Alternet and both MPP and NORML have articles on the page and they are Libertarians or Republicans so I didn't think it was political. Progressive in thought but not for one Party.http://www.alternet.org/drugreporter/
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Comment #53 posted by FoM on December 10, 2007 at 16:58:58 PT

Taylor121
I think of Alternet as more leaning to a liberal slant and they have more related articles I think. I won't post anything from Alternet either then. I never thought about it until you mentioned it.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reason_(magazine)
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Comment #52 posted by Taylor121 on December 10, 2007 at 16:50:42 PT

I'm not trying to attack you FoM
I'm just trying to understand you. 
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Comment #51 posted by Taylor121 on December 10, 2007 at 16:49:35 PT

Ignoring Reason?
"I saw that article but they are a Libertarian based web site so I take it with a grain of salt. I don't post articles from political parties so no one fights. I didn't know for a number of years that they were associated with the LP but when I did I stopped posting anything out of fairness for Democrats and Republicans."There's a difference between the libertarian ideology and the Libertarian Party. Reason is NOT part of the Libertarian Party, they are libertarian in ideology. Since you post news articles and op-eds from Alternet, a left-wing progressive website, I have to wonder why you would block a libertarian ideological site that favors legalizing cannabis if the article is well done (I'm not talking about the blog necessarily, but the magazine is respected in many circles).Btw, this is coming from a moderate liberal.
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Comment #50 posted by runruff on December 10, 2007 at 15:19:12 PT:

Museman
       "All I Know is what I read in the papers."
       -Will Rogers
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Comment #49 posted by FoM on December 10, 2007 at 14:10:11 PT

fight_4_freedom 
I didn't know for a long time so I understand how you didn't know it too.
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Comment #48 posted by fight_4_freedom on December 10, 2007 at 13:56:41 PT:

I actually thought
it was reason tv, you know, that Drew Carey is associated with. I guess I didn't look close enough.
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Comment #47 posted by FoM on December 10, 2007 at 13:43:13 PT

fight_4_freedom 
I saw that article but they are a Libertarian based web site so I take it with a grain of salt. I don't post articles from political parties so no one fights. I didn't know for a number of years that they were associated with the LP but when I did I stopped posting anything out of fairness for Democrats and Republicans.
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Comment #46 posted by fight_4_freedom on December 10, 2007 at 12:50:36 PT:

Thanks again FoM
Reason OnlineIs Chris Dodd Only Two Notches Below Ron Paul on Drug Policy?Jacob Sullum | December 10, 2007, 1:35pmAt the Drug Policy Alliance's conference in New Orleans last week, I ran into someone from the New Hampshire Coalition for Common Sense Marijuana Policy, which has prepared "The Anti-Prohibitionist Presidential Candidate Report Card." These ratings, which reflect the candidates' positions on a variety of drug policy issues, are an instructive contrast with the grades handed out by Granite Staters for Medical Marijuana, a group that focuses on the issue of federal interference with state policies regarding the medical use of cannabis. Not surprisingly, Ron Paul (along with Mike Gravel and Dennis Kucinich) gets an A+ from both groups. But Hillary Clinton and John Edwards, who receive an A and an A−, respectively, on the medical marijuana issue, both get downgraded to a C when their other drug policy views are taken into account. So does Tom Tancredo, who garnered an A+ from Granite Staters for Medical Marijuana because he has clearly stated, on federalist grounds, that states should be allowed to go their own way on this issue. The leading Republicans—Rudy Giuliani, Mike Huckabee, Mitt Romney, and Fred Thompson—all get F's, although Thompson's grade is presumptive, since he "has thus far eluded the necessity of defining himself on drug and marijuana policy."
whole article
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Comment #45 posted by FoM on December 10, 2007 at 12:29:59 PT

fight_4_freedom 
I agree it is going to be an action packed year. Once again good luck to you and Michigan!
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Comment #44 posted by fight_4_freedom on December 10, 2007 at 12:08:49 PT:

That's what I'm hoping for
It's too bad we aren't going to know sooner as Neal Levine from MPP is going to be at our statewide MINORML meeting in January. Although I'm sure we'll just assume it's going to make it so we can all strategize for the campaign. It's going to be an action packed year for Cannabis reform.Regulate & Medicate in 08'!
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Comment #43 posted by FoM on December 10, 2007 at 11:45:16 PT

fight_4_freedom
Maybe you will know soon after the New Year. That would be a great way to start 08! Good luck to you.
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Comment #42 posted by fight_4_freedom on December 10, 2007 at 11:41:26 PT:

Let's see
MCCC turned the petitions into the state on the 20th of last month. And from that day, the state had 60-90 days to validate them. So they now have 40-70 days to go. We turned in half a million signatures, and we only need 300,000 to get it on the ballot. So more than likely Michiganders will have a big vote in 08'.We also have had 5 city wide medical initiatives pass previously throughout the state. Ann Arbor, Detroit, Traverse City, Ferndale, and Flint. 4 of those cities highly populated.So getting 5 out of 5 passed gives us good reason to be very optimistic. 
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Comment #41 posted by FoM on December 10, 2007 at 11:39:38 PT

fight_4_freedom
I can imagine how wonderful the concert would be. Love is the end result of acceptance, tolerance, forgiveness etc. without needing to sacrifice your own beliefs. That's hard to achieve but it is worth the effort.
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Comment #40 posted by fight_4_freedom on December 10, 2007 at 11:31:15 PT:

The Marley's Sure Know How To Make Music
I can't wait to see him in concert again. One of the best concerts I've ever been to. Made a bunch of friends with complete strangers that night too. I'll never forget it."What is God? God is love." That's exactly how I feel FoM. 
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Comment #39 posted by FoM on December 10, 2007 at 11:28:42 PT

fight_4_freedom 
Do you know when you will know for sure if it makes it on the ballot in 08? If it makes it, which it seems like it should, it will pass. I believe that.
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Comment #38 posted by fight_4_freedom on December 10, 2007 at 11:25:14 PT:

FoM
I'm with you on that. I'm not too worried either. None of that even matters here in Michigan yet, since we first have to pass our initiative. Which I'm pretty confident will happen, but we still have a lot of educating to do before the vote. 
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Comment #37 posted by FoM on December 10, 2007 at 11:18:46 PT

fight_4_freedom 
Great video. I believe that love is what it's all about. Nothing like the power of love not fear or hate can change the world. What is God? God is love.
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Comment #36 posted by FoM on December 10, 2007 at 11:13:49 PT

fight_4_freedom 
I feel something good will happen too. I am surprisingly calm about the outcome. I've believed what I believe for many years and I mean many years. I am not nervous or anxious but feel like just letting it happen. 
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Comment #35 posted by fight_4_freedom on December 10, 2007 at 11:08:53 PT:

It puts a big ol' smile on my face
knowing congress is starting to question the DEA's war tactics. Who knows, maybe by the time we pass this MI initiative next November, the feds will be unable to intrude. I got a feeling something good will come out of this.Happy Holidays C-News! 
Ziggy Marley- Love is my Religion
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Comment #34 posted by museman on December 10, 2007 at 10:44:27 PT

runruff
Man you must have had some kind of epiphany concerning Nixon. I keep seeing your reference to him in many of your recent posts.While I agree and believe that the powers that were (and still are) did the dirty deeds to get Nixon (republicans) into power, I don't believe that Nixon was much more than a puppet, whose strings were pulled by the same creatures who put Bush in power.As far as the 'coming to power' I believe that the America as we were duped to believe in, actually never existed. Our 'founding fathers' with maybe a couple of exceptions like Thomas Jefferson, or Samuel Adams, were all rich, powerful, former royal aristocrats, whose agendas had little to nothing to do with "Liberty and Justice for all."Each generation has had it's 'glory', it's war to weed out the potential grass-roots heroes, and thin the strength of numbers down a little, and every war, including the revolutionary war was about finance, not freedom.Until mass communication, and TV in particular, it was oh so easy to lie and obfuscate, specially when you have all the major media sources in your pocket. JFK was the first politician to recognize the power of the TV media, and to successfully use it to support him. He also used it to try and back him when he decided to clean house, but those cameras didn't stop the bullets.That event shocked America on a scale, that for the first time was nationwide and instantaneous, and though it was never spoken of except in small circles, the idea that Nixon had something to do with JFKs assasination comes strait from Americas TV view of history.As a nation we were all pretty naive and innocent, but a few brave journalists gave us the strait scoop about Nam, and we started to look closer at the men behind the curtain.
Reagan was put into power because he had been president of the MPCA, and had influence with the media. It was under Reagan and Bush that incentives were put into place to drive the media towards the right. Bribery, assasinations, kidnappings,... all carried out by the CIA and only now after our beloved bush-booby spilled his idiocy for all to see, is the media skaking the pixie dust out of their eyes.And only because we the people currently have control of our own media; the internet. The powers are struggling to gain control of that, and if American consumerism doesn't undergo major overhaul very soon, we will lose that as well. Then you can just sit back and count the police cars, and the new 'temporary holding facilities' as they fill up the rest of our free space.I don't believe that it is ever going to get that far, because I know of real power, and it's not motivated by negatives like fear, greed, and the wielding of power, but just electing another member of their club into office is certainly not going to change anything.Nixon was a crook, a demonic character, and the epitomy of a politicians soul, but he was a mere particle in a large pile of garbage, still applying their stink to the world.
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Comment #33 posted by Storm Crow on December 10, 2007 at 06:04:02 PT

You simply ....
Gotta LOVE it! And it's about time!
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Comment #32 posted by FoM on December 10, 2007 at 05:19:02 PT

Press Release from PR Web
Day After Lawsuit Filed Against DEA, U.S. Congress Decides To Question AgencyDecember 10, 2007One day after the Union of Medical Marijuana Providers filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court, Central District of California (case CV07-07951) challenging the DEA's tactic of sending threatening letters to hundreds of owners of Commercial Property who rent to Marijuana Providers, the House Judiciary Committee will question the agency about the practice. Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) December 10, 2007 -- The DEA, who has declared war on California's Medical Marijuana Law, began the draconian tactic of sending letters to Commercial Property owners who rent to legally authorized Medical Marijuana Providers this summer. In the letter, the DEA informed the owners of these properties that if they continue to rent to dispensaries they may face federal prosecution which could result in a possible prison sentence for up to 20 years as well as seizure of their property. The Union of Medical Marijuana Providers which was formed in part, as a direct result of the DEA's letter writing campaign, as well as L.A.'s Arts District Healing Center, have been aggressively litigating this issue in both state and federal court for the past several months (state case in Los Angeles Superior Court, case 07K21837). Just yesterday, December 6, 2007 they filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court, Central District, which requested that the Court issue an injunction stopping the DEA from continuing to send these letters. "When I saw Representative Conyers statement regarding the DEA's abuse of their power in order to thwart California's law, I knew that our legal efforts were beginning to pay off," said James Shaw, Executive Director of the Union. "The DEA has alienated too many citizens with their heavy-handed 'above the law tactics' for too long. We welcome all the support we can find in our efforts to ensure our rights are protected." Steven Schectman, the Union's chief counsel said he has contacted Representative Conyers office today in order to provide his staff copies of the litigation that was filed in both state and Federal Court. "I am hopeful we can support the Judiciary Committee in any way possible. As a result of our research and investigation of the DEA's threatening letter campaign, in preparation of our litigation, we have become the most knowledgeable group, outside the DEA, who best understands the scope and import of their tactics. We are here to help." The Union of Medical Marijuana Providers (UMMP) is a legal advocacy group based in Los Angeles, California. The Union's membership comprises legally compliant cooperatives, collectives, and caregiver groups throughout the State of California. UMMP was founded in 2007 to address the shared concerns of legally compliant medical marijuana patient groups. http://www.prweb.com/releases/2007/12/prweb575276.htm
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Comment #31 posted by Celaya on December 09, 2007 at 23:18:37 PT

Sand
Anyway, I think Robert Sand is showing leadership material. From the Rutland Herald:[Sand] said he will continue to advocate for the decriminalization of marijuana. "I have not backed down one iota on my desire to stimulate public debate about drug policy," he said.Nice.
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Comment #30 posted by FoM on December 09, 2007 at 21:26:59 PT

runruff
I was young too in 68 but Bobby's death right after MLK's death was too much for me to handle. It left me with a terrible feeling about our government and how it was going to go. I was right too. 
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Comment #29 posted by runruff on December 09, 2007 at 21:15:29 PT:

1968
In 1969 I read a book "The Selling of A President." The book had a picture of Nixon on the cover his face on a pack of cigarettes. After they killed Bobby just five years after killing his brother John then MLK I knew there were powerfull people out there detemined not to loose their hold on our Bumblement. I think that was the begining of tyrany in this country as we know it today. That was when I lost faith in our system of government. I was young in 1968 but I knew then and I know now I wasn't wrong. 
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Comment #28 posted by FoM on December 09, 2007 at 20:49:17 PT

John Tyler
I really felt the emotion in the Documentary too. What a year 1968 was. It was the year that I gave up on caring about who was President. To me at that time I knew there would never be another Bobby Kennedy and I went my own way until now. As far as Tom Brokaw goes he would have been 28 and getting established in his career so he wouldn't have been as into the whole scene as those who were closer to 20. A few years means a lot particularly when a person is young. That's what I think.
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Comment #27 posted by John Tyler on December 09, 2007 at 20:29:15 PT

Tom
I saw the Tom Brokaw show about 1968. It was OK. You could see the pictures, but you couldn’t feel the vibes. It was like looking through a scrapbook. He has a book out too, called Boom. I was reading a little of it in the grocery store. In it Tom admits smoking cannabis on a lot of occasions in the 60’s. I wonder if he really wrote it or any of his books. I suspect he had a staff of people do the work and he just supervised it and put his name on it like James Mitchner used to do. So what do you think Tom is doing with all of his millions? Is he helping out the cause, or any cause, or just living a shallow, empty, meaningless, elitist lifestyle? I’m sure Tom is an OK guy, just wondering. I saw him in person years ago when we were taking a tour of the NBC studio. He came in the lobby and waved to us as we stood in line. 
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Comment #26 posted by FoM on December 09, 2007 at 20:18:53 PT

The GCW
OK I see. I don't go to his web site or follow him. I don't know about what goes on there. Not everyone thinks the same and that should be ok.
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Comment #25 posted by The GCW on December 09, 2007 at 20:16:10 PT

FoM,
Defending? I’m praising.
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Comment #24 posted by FoM on December 09, 2007 at 20:12:16 PT

The GCW
Why are people defending Emery? I didn't say anything about him and no one did. I was talking about something else not him.
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Comment #23 posted by FoM on December 09, 2007 at 20:10:21 PT

Celaya
I don't worry about much anymore. I believe we should try to live like their won't be a tomorrow but enjoy life like it will never end. Fear of the future makes people conform and that isn't what I believe.
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Comment #22 posted by The GCW on December 09, 2007 at 20:07:57 PT

Did Marc Emery influenced Mason Tvert?
It makes Me wonder if Marc Emery influenced Mason Tvert?Mason?
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Comment #21 posted by Yanxor on December 09, 2007 at 19:50:38 PT

Marc Emery
After he was mentioned I read up on him and watched the prince of pot documentary and this opened up a totally new view on America's drug war policy.America preassures Canada, limiting their democracy so we can keep on arresting thousands of people for smoking a plant that helps people medicinally, and is a safe alternative to most recreational drugs.But on the other hand imagine what cannabis legalization in Canada would do for the movement in America.
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Comment #20 posted by The GCW on December 09, 2007 at 19:40:24 PT

Celaya
Marc Emery's activism has been so awesome that there is no doubt it has helped cannabis activism spread in the U.S.He has helped beyond conception in so many ways.In some ways He is still helping the U.S. end cannabis prohibition.
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Comment #19 posted by Celaya on December 09, 2007 at 19:17:06 PT

FoM
I hope you're right. But, these days, the larger picture - the slide toward fascism - threatens to make marijuana reform irrelevant.IS AMERICA OVER? - http://www.alternet.org/rights/68399/I think we need a large united group of consumers. A charismatic leader would help.
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Comment #18 posted by runruff on December 09, 2007 at 18:22:58 PT:

FoM
Word!True that!
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Comment #17 posted by FoM on December 09, 2007 at 18:00:21 PT

Celaya
I don't think we need one person because we are on a roll. We've come a long way but the future looks brighter to me now.
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Comment #16 posted by Celaya on December 09, 2007 at 17:54:20 PT

FoM
I understand how some folks are turned off by Emery's hedonistic bent, but he has been a terrific leader of marijuana reform for Canada. Since the powers that be are pushing toward a North American Union similar to Europe, Emery may become our leader by default 8^) But surely an equally charismatic figure will emerge here. One perhaps more tuned in to the range of sensibilities. It's true, one person cannot do much. But there are an estimated 30 million U.S. marijuana consumers, and about 100 million people who have smoked pot at least once in their life. Add to that their friends and families, and you begin to see what a powerful force it could be - IF they could be inspired to action. That's where a great leader comes in. 
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Comment #15 posted by FoM on December 09, 2007 at 17:47:43 PT

fight_4_freedom 
You're welcome. I hope you and your mother enjoys it. I agree about Nancy Pelosi. The times they are a changin.
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Comment #14 posted by fight_4_freedom on December 09, 2007 at 17:33:47 PT:

Thanks for the heads up on the 1968 show
My mom was delighted to hear about it. I think I'm going to record it too. Sounds like it will be worth it."Word is that Rep. Pelosi's office was instrumental in pushing for the hearings; finally, one reason to be appreciative of the new Democratic leadership."Wonderful News! I guess once they said they we're going after the San Fran clubs, she said enough is enough. You Go Girl!
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Comment #13 posted by FoM on December 09, 2007 at 17:24:34 PT

Heads Up: Tom Brokaw at 9 PM ET History Channel
1968 WITH TOM BROKAW: The Grooviest GenerationBrokaw’s flashback to 1968 is out of focusTonight at 9 on the History Channel.Finished hyperventilating over “the greatest generation,” Tom Brokaw turns to the ’60s, when youngsters coming of age apparently were all dummies, drug addicts or draft dodgers.In his new documentary, “1968 with Tom Brokaw” (tonight at 9 on the History Channel), the veteran newsman tilts the spotlight on one of the most turbulent years in U.S. history.Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy were assassinated, protests over the Vietnam War culminated in bloodshed at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago and the Apollo 8 crew became the first men to orbit the moon.With an odd mix of guests ranging from Bruce Springsteen, James Taylor and Tommy Smothers to then-Nixon campaign worker Pat Buchanan (who is so sour here, he’s unintentionally hilarious), Brokaw takes a scattershot to these moments and more.Brokaw, of course, is hawking a new book, “Boom! Voices of the Sixties: Personal Reflections on the ’60s and Today,” and much of this documentary consists of talking heads looking back and reflecting forward.It may work in print, but it’s a headache to watch.Oddly, young Brokaw, seen here in several archival clips, is far more intelligible and has far less a patrician accent than the elder statesman. Some of us apparently age out of the ability to pronounce words such as “Hollywood.”After a barrage of clips of college kids getting wasted, even Brokaw concedes in a voice-over that the flower power movement centered in San Francisco was just a small part of the changes roiling the country.Some of the archival footage is moving: Robert Kennedy calming an urban neighborhood the night King was killed. Later, Americans of all stripes line up to salute the funeral train for the slain presidential candidate. You grasp why so many today still wonder what could have been.But Brokaw can’t get away from pop culture and fawning over such people as Taylor and Arlo Guthrie. “Daily Show” host Jon Stewart at least makes a trenchant point that the difference between the college generation then and now comes down to the draft. If there were a draft today, 20-somethings would be far more politicized, he argues.But to try to glean any meaning about 1968 from this documentary, you’d be better off contemplating your navel. mperigard bostonherald.comCopyright by the Boston Herald and Herald Media.http://www.bostonherald.com/entertainment/television/reviews/
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Comment #12 posted by FoM on December 09, 2007 at 17:09:45 PT

runruff 
I consider myself a forgiving person. I really try to understand. There comes a time for me though that the limit gets hit and I will not change my mind about how I feel. It's like a couple that try to work out their relationship. There comes a time in some marriages where there is no more to say or try. It's over for me with any Republican because it's over. They must be humbled and get their Party fixed and it's going to take many years for them to achieve that. 
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Comment #11 posted by runruff on December 09, 2007 at 16:23:26 PT:

FoM
You are not alone. There are a least two of us. That only leaves 299,999,998 left in question.
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Comment #10 posted by FoM on December 09, 2007 at 15:05:00 PT

Celaya 
I don't think a Marc Emery type of person would do well down here or at least where I live in mid america. Since we have over 300,000,000 people living in the states from all walks of life, different ages and educations I don't see how one person could possible be enough to bring change. For an example. I am so turned off by this administration and it has festered for years inside me that I won't listen to anyone who is from that Party. For me it will have to come from a totally different direction. I know other people feel like I do. I am not alone.
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Comment #9 posted by Celaya on December 09, 2007 at 14:55:16 PT

A Leader
"Men make history, and not the other way around. In periods where there is no leadership, society stands still. Progress occurs when courageous, skillful leaders seize the opportunity to change things for the better." - Harry TrumanOne of the great questions of drug policy reform is why no great leader has emerged in this country. Many hard-working reformers avoid the idea of leadership, which is understandable in duplicitous, ego-driven times. The foibles of leadership are well=characterized by Monty Python's "Life of Brian," where the reluctant messiah, Brian, flees from the desperately needful congregations determined to follow him. But marijuana reform needs a leader. Someone that could inspire most of the thirty million marijuana consumers to act for themselves. It's strange no leaders have emerged. I invision a U.S. version of Marc Emery.
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Comment #8 posted by FoM on December 09, 2007 at 13:59:25 PT

Important E-Mail from CaNORML
DPFCA: Congress to Hold Hearings on DEA Forfeiture Many thanks to US House Judiciary Committee Chairman Rep. John Conyers for announcing that he will hold oversight hearings regarding the DEA's forfeiture threats against MCD landlords. http://judiciary.house.gov/newscenter.aspx?A=889December 07, 2007 (Washington, DC)- House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers, Jr. (D-MI) released the following statement today about reports that the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) is threatening private landlords for housing legal medical marijuana facilities: I am deeply concerned about recent reports that the Drug Enforcement Administration is threatening private landlords with asset forfeiture and possible imprisonment if they refuse to evict organizations legally dispensing medical marijuana to suffering patients. The Committee has already questioned the DEA about its efforts to undermine California state law on this subject, and we intend to sharply question this specific tactic as part of our oversight efforts.Word is that Rep. Pelosi's office was instrumental in pushing for the hearings; finally, one reason to be appreciative of the new Democratic leadership.The following California Congress members sit on the Judiciary Committee: Rep. Howard Berman (D- LA), Rep. Maxine Waters (D-LA), Zoe Lofgren (D- San Jose), Linda Sanchez (D-Orange), Adam Schiff (D-Pasadena), Brad Sherman (D-Sherman Oaks), Elton Gallegly (R-Thousand Oaks), Dan Lungren (R-Roseville), and Darrell Issa (R-Vista). Complaints about forfeiture abuses should be addressed to them as well as committee chairman Conyers.No date for the oversight hearings has been announced, but they will probably come early next year.http://judiciary.house.gov/CommitteeMembership.aspx---------- Forwarded message ----------From: Axis Love: mailto:axisoflovesf gmail.com Date: Dec 7, 2007 10:16 PM Subject: congress moves to protect safe access to medical cannabisAxis of Love SF was successful in today's emergency response press conference.Most of the credit is due to Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi's legal aide Dan Bernal who worked overtime with us giving guidance to patient advocates on how to accomplish our goals.We held the press conference in response to the DEA's threat to shut down our safe access centers. We fought back with Dan Bernal on our team. Mr. Bernal secured the following statement from John Conyers Jr.- the House Judiciary Committee Chair in Washington DC.CONYERS EXPRESSES CONCERN ABOUT DEA MEDICAL MARIJUANA THREATSWashington DC- House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers Jr. (D-MI) released the following statement today about the reports that the Drug Enforxement Agency (DEA) is threatening private landlords for housing legal medical marijuana facilities:"I am deeply concerned about recent reports that the Drug Enforcement Administration is threatening private landlords with asset forfeiture and possible imprisonment if they refuse to evict organizations legally dispensing medical marijuana to suffering patients. The Committee has already questioned the DEA about its efforts to undermine California state law on this subject, and we intend to sharply question this specific tactic as part of our oversight efforts."##110-JUD-020807##Axis of Love SF patient advocates had the support of state and local officials:Our heros-The office of State Senator Carole Migden (read a letter they are sending in our defense to the DEA).The office of Assemblyman Mark LenoSupervisor Chris DalySupervisor Ross MirkarimiPolice Commissioner David CamposStay tuned- SF MCDs are sending Congress' statement to our landlords.DEA out of California!! -- Dale Gieringer, Director - California NORML, 2215-R Market St. #278, San Francisco CA 94114 -(415) 563- 5858 - www.canorml.org
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Comment #7 posted by FoM on December 09, 2007 at 12:53:32 PT

Celaya 
I agree!
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Comment #6 posted by Had Enough on December 09, 2007 at 12:42:16 PT

Looking for a leader???
I kinda like ‘Lead by example’

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Comment #5 posted by Celaya on December 09, 2007 at 12:00:20 PT

Courageous
The steamroller of oppression is doing its best to crush principled DA Robert Sand. But it might have run into a land mine. 8^)
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Comment #4 posted by Sam Adams on December 09, 2007 at 11:33:54 PT

runruff
too true, I've always preferred the people that like to work hard rather than the ones who want to "lead"
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Comment #3 posted by runruff on December 09, 2007 at 10:01:30 PT:

Yeh and
Mistrust those in whom the urge to lead is strong.-Runruff
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Comment #2 posted by Sam Adams on December 09, 2007 at 09:11:31 PT

Gov. Douglas
“Mistrust those in whom the urge to punish is strong”-Friedrich Nietzche

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Comment #1 posted by RevRayGreen on December 09, 2007 at 06:58:04 PT

"My motivation is public safety."
so is mine, RELEGALIZE.
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