Pubdate: Thu, 21 Dec 2000 Date: 12/21/2000 Source: Reno Gazette-Journal (NV) Author: Trey Halatom The Nevada Supreme Court is right in recommending the reduction from felony to a misdemeanor for possession of small amounts of marijuana. Washoe District Attorney Dick Gammick's remark that marijuana is a "gateway to other drugs, and a first step toward other crimes," is simply not true. Marijuana does not lead to other drugs; nor is it an addictive substance that causes people to commit burglaries and theft to support the habit. These statements by the police and prosecutors are nothing more than propaganda meant to justify the cruel and unusual penalties levied by the state of Nevada. The decriminalization of marijuana would have a positive effect on society by removing this herb from the control of the criminals who sell drugs like crack cocaine, methamphetamines, heroin, LSD, etc. God created marijuana. It is a seed-bearing herb, not a chemical substance mixed in secret labs such as those that do cause addiction and abuse. It is time to recognize the difference! Trey Halatom, Reno (via e-mail)