Pubdate: Sun, 19 Mar 2000
Source: New York Times (NY)
Copyright: 2000 The New York Times Company
Contact:  229 West 43rd Street, New York, NY 10036
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Forum: http://www10.nytimes.com/comment/
Author: Sam Abrams

CANNABIS ADVOCATE

To the editor:

I'm disappointed that Mr. Crouch cops out on something that really matters 
in his otherwise accurate appreciation of Louis Armstrong. Armstrong, who 
had "endless energy and could play and play and play with the evangelical 
fire and charisma that brings a new art into being," was a confirmed, 
longtime user of and advocate for cannabis, which he considered an enhancer 
of musical perception and creativity.

At a time when hundreds of thousands are being arrested for cannabis use, 
we need to heed Satchmo, who wrote, "It really puzzles me to see Marijuana 
connected with Narcotics -- Dope and all that . . . it's a thousand times 
better than whiskey -- it's an Assistant -- a friend."

I find it puzzling that Mr. Crouch, who seems to really love and understand 
Armstrong, doesn't stand up for Satchmo's much abused "friend."

SAM ABRAMS
Rochester
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