Pubdate: Wed, 18 Apr 2001 Source: Mountain Xpress (NC) Copyright: 2001 Mountain Xpress Contact: http://www.mapinc.org/media/941 Website: http://www.mountainx.com/ Author: Jason Klein Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v01/n549/a03.html COMMUNITY OF COMPASSION RESPONSIBLY ADVOCATES CANNABIS AWARENESS In response to the letter submitted by E. Scruggs [March 28]: The "Cannabis Clowns" are not to be commended for their immature behavior. In their public antagonism of Asheville's City Council, they are giving both the Council and the public a negative impression of the issues associated with Cannabis. If they truly wanted to lend their support to the cause, they would do so in a dignified and respectful way. The local campaign advocating the economic, environmental, medical and political benefits of Cannabis has been led by the Community of Compassion. In the last year, C of C has sponsored many events to responsibly generate publicity and awareness of Cannabis-related issues, including a referendum encouraging reprioritization of marijuana arrests in the City and a political forum with Barbara Howe, Libertarian candidate for governor in last year's election. Further, in order to boost awareness of the U.S. Supreme Court hearings on the medical-necessity defense for Cannabis use, Community of Compassion held a demonstration [two weeks ago] at Vance Memorial. At noon on May 5 in City/County Plaza, C of C will be the local sponsor of a worldwide festival in support of All-Things-Cannabis. So, Ms. Scruggs, that's what the Community of Compassion has done -- and is doing and will continue to do -- in order to responsibly and respectfully advocate for Cannabis awareness. Jason Klein, member, Community of Compassion - --- MAP posted-by: Doc-Hawk