Pubdate: Mon, 10 Aug 1998
Date: 10/08/1998
Source: The Mountain Eagle (Tannersville, NY)
Author: Walter F. Wouk
Note: Walter F. Wouk is president of NORML in Schoharie, NY

1998 marks the 61st year of marijuana prohibition. In the past six
decades tens of millions of otherwise law-abiding American citizens
have been arrested for marijuana offenses, the vast majority for
simple possession. Billions of tax dollars have been spent in a
malevolent attempt to eradicate marijuana use from American society.

Because marijuana is typically used in private, trampling upon the
Bill of Rights has become a routine part of marijuana law enforcement
(e.g., drug sniffing dogs, urine testing, phone taps, and military
involvement in the marijuana war.)

Reason dictates that an objective review of our marijuana laws is
required; but professional politicians are loath to enter into a
rational discussion of the marijuana issue for fear of appearing "soft
on drugs" -- and the average citizen is afraid to speak out for fear
of retribution from the "drug warriors."

The constitution of the State of New York does not allow citizens to
put their own initiatives on the ballot.  Consequently, the Marijuana
Reform Party of New York (MRP) was established as a vehicle to bring
the issue of marijuana prohibition before New York voters.

Thomas Leighton is the MRP candidate for governor.  By voting for Tom
Leighton, concerned New Yorkers can send an anonymous, yet meaningful,
message to the political establishment that it's time for a change.

Walter F. Wouk - president NORML in Schoharie National Organization
for the Reform of Marijuana Laws