Pubdate: Fri, 06 Jun 2014
Source: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram (TX)
Copyright: 2014 Fort Worth Star-Telegram
Contact: http://www.star-telegram.com/submit-a-letter/
Website: http://www.star-telegram.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/162
Author: Diane Smith

MARIJUANA BACKERS HIT DOWNTOWN FORT WORTH

FORT WORTH - Move over, GOP convention-goers, the marijuana 
reformists are in Cowtown, too.

The Dallas-Fort Worth chapter of the National Organization for the 
Reform of Marijuana Laws is hosting the second annual Texas Regional 
NORML Conference this weekend in downtown Fort Worth. More than 300 
people are expected to attend.

A few blocks away, thousands of Republicans are attending the state 
party convention at the Fort Worth Convention Center. NORML 
organizers decided that this weekend was the ideal time to broach the 
issue, saying the stage is set for reform.

"It's not coincidence," said Shaun McAlister, executive director of 
DFW NORML. "It's all part of a deliberate strategy.

"I believe marijuana prohibition is circling the drains," McAlister 
said, adding that fewer people are defending the "failed policies" against pot.

The event is a seminar for people interested in legalizing marijuana 
for medical purposes and for responsible recreational use by adults. 
The conference will also touch on the business side of hemp, the 
cannabis plant grown for its fiber.

The fiber can be used in rope, yarn and body products.

The gathering will be held at the Norris Conference Centers in 
downtown Fort Worth. Humorist/politician Kinky Friedman will speak at 
11:30 a.m. Saturday.

Larry Talley, a military veteran and supporter of marijuana law 
reform, said legalization has gained broader acceptance. But there 
seems to be a disconnect between what many people want and what 
lawmakers want, he said.

"Texans are ready, but until they let their representatives know, 
nothing is going to change," Talley said.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom