Pubdate: Tue, 06 Aug 2002 Source: Leader-Herald, The (NY) Copyright: 2002 - The Leader Herald Contact: http://www.leaderherald.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2276 Author: Ina V. Stone Kurz POT SMOKERS NOT EVIL PEOPLE I am raffling a bong with much local support. Proceeds will be donated to RGL Volunteer Fire Company on Aug. 10. It is a very beautiful 18-inch color-changing glass bong that I have named "The Twin Towers." Retail value is $100, and I have collected more than the bong is worth. Donations have come from people who choose to smoke. I want to send a message that pot smokers are not evil people but are from all walks of life that include health professionals, government officials, fire company members, police officers and our neighborhood neighbors. Marijuana is just a plant, and people and politics make it evil ... or good. Marijuana smoking has beneficial health purposes. People should examine the word "freedom." Archaic law should be changed in New York state with the repeal of the Rockefeller drug laws. Many states in our country have been decriminalized for smoking marijuana. Why not New York state? I'm sure the winner of the bong will be a happy person, and the local fire company will be happy with the proceeds. Ina V. Stone Kurz Ephratah - --- MAP posted-by: Larry Stevens